Getting Around in Doha

In the heart of the Middle East, Doha has transformed its transport landscape in preparation for the world's most prestigious football event, the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This global sporting occasion not only spotlighted Doha on the international stage but also accelerated the evolution of its public transport system. 

Despite the expanded array of transport options, from modern metros to traditional buses, many residents, both expatriates and Qataris, continue to favour driving as their primary means of navigating the city's vibrant streets. This preference underscores a complex interplay between tradition and modernisation in the rapidly evolving urban fabric of Doha.

Public transport in Doha

Described as a futuristic city, Doha's rapidly expanding amenities and its quickly developing transport infrastructure hold exciting prospects for the city. Public transport consists of buses, the recently established metro, taxis, and there are plans for a light railway system.

Buses

The state-owned company Mowasalat introduced public buses in Doha. These can be used to get around the city and commute to work, but for the moment, many expats still opt for their private car and driver.

The turquoise buses are easily identifiable. They cover large swathes of Doha, with extensive routes in and around the city centre and a few to the outskirts.

Bus fares can be paid with a Karwa smartcard. There are three main options: the Classic card, which can be used long term and recharged when necessary; the Limited card, which is limited to two journeys within 24 hours; and the Unlimited card, which allows limitless journeys within 24 hours. Smartcards can be bought and topped up at the Doha Bus Station, the airport, Qatar Mall, and various other locations.

For more on bus routes in Qatar's capital, see Mowasalat.

Metro

Doha opened its metro system in 2019 to give commuters a more efficient means of travel and a way to avoid the notorious Doha road traffic. The lines branch out from the largest station, Msheireb in Downtown Doha, and connect with Hamad International Airport. Ongoing plans for extension aim to connect the city centre with the surrounding suburbs.

Doha’s metro is efficient, air-conditioned, and clean. The regularly updated Qatar Rail app and website provide information on schedules and allow passengers to register and top up their travel cards.

Trains

Like the city of Lusail itself, the Lusail Light Rail Transit system is very much still a work in progress. The network will eventually connect Lusail and Doha, making it easy to commute between the two. Additionally, the Msheireb Tram is a transport network in Msheireb Downtown of Doha, featuring a 1.2-mile (2-km) closed-loop track system with nine stops, operating three hydrogen vehicles.

For more on Qatar's metro and rail system, see Doha Metro & Tram.

Taxis in Doha

People who don’t have cars often use the city’s turquoise taxis as their primary form of transport. These are publicly managed Karwa taxis, but Uber and other private taxi companies also operate in Doha.

Doha has a bit of a taxi shortage, but users can book them in advance through the Karwa app and website. Taxis are mostly clean, metered and well-regulated by the government.

Unfortunately, taxi drivers don’t always know their way around the city, making commuting difficult for new arrivals.

Useful links

• Visit Karwa Taxi to book a ride.

Driving in Doha

Driving in Doha can sometimes be a harrowing experience. Locals and foreigners alike tend to drive fast and recklessly, which is why many expats choose to hire drivers instead of braving the roads themselves. Traffic is at its worst in the early morning around 6am and in the late afternoon.
 
Motor vehicle accidents are common, and expats should exercise extreme caution when driving on the emirate's roads. Drivers tend to be aggressive, speedy and take risks, so expats should always drive defensively. In the case of a traffic accident in Doha, we recommend always remaining at the scene of the collision. Always obey traffic laws – the government is trying to combat the problem, and heavy fines apply to those caught speeding or running a red light.

Despite the danger, many expats still choose to drive in Doha because of the independence it affords and because fuel is so inexpensive. Qataris drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Residents who want to drive must apply for an international driving licence before arrival in Doha, or a Qatari driving licence two weeks after arriving in the country. Regardless, all expats residing in the country longer than 12 months will need a local licence.

Expat employees often get vehicles, and sometimes drivers, as part of their employment packages; otherwise, cars can be bought or rented. Both local and large international car rental agencies, including Hertz, Avis and Europcar, have services in Doha, making car hire easy.

Cycling in Doha

Despite the heat, cycling in Doha is growing in popularity and is promoted for its various health benefits. Reckless drivers make getting around by bicycle dangerous and unwise on main roads, but there are spaces and parks dedicated to cycling.

Expats can also find cycling groups through social media platforms, while several bike shops dotted around the city offer rentals.

Useful links

• The Qatar Cycling Federation provides information, maps and advice for those interested in cycling in the country.

Walking in Doha

Doha isn’t exactly walkable, but certain areas make for pleasant strolls and there are many leafy jogging environments too.

Oxygen Park has paths for walking and cycling, while Al Bidda Park and Aspire Park offer refreshing green spaces for running and picnics. Walking along the Corniche promenade and around the Museum of Islamic Art Park are also great areas to unwind and enjoy the view.

Sea travel in Doha

Qatar's shoreline offers cruises, tours, fishing trips, and all sorts of watersports. Boats offer more than just travel: relax on a dinner cruise or spend an exciting afternoon on jet skis, wakeboards, or kayaks.

It's important to check the company that is providing the service, enquire about their safety standards and wear a life jacket.