Qatar Driving Rules and Regulations – Comprehensive Guide 2025

Qatar Driving Rules

Qatar is attracting tourists due to its established economy and infrastructure. The tourist must know the rules and laws of Qatar while visiting it. Especially they must know about the driving rules in Qatar. The Qatari government is very strict about its driving rules to avoid unpleasant situations.

Qatar is attracting tourists due to its established economy and infrastructure. The tourist must know the rules and laws of Qatar while visiting it. Especially they must know about the driving rules in Qatar. The Qatari government is very strict about its driving rules to avoid unpleasant situations.

Extreme Conditions in Qatar

Qatar has very extreme weather conditions, some are as follows:

Sandstorms: reduce visibility, which causes accidents.

Wandering camels: create dangerous obstacles.

Extreme summer heat: makes vehicles break down.

Tips to Avoid Driving Difficulties.

The driver should

Maintain their vehicle properly.

Avoid going off-road, unless they are well prepared.

Keep their phone charged. 

If we look at the positive side of travelling in Qatar, we come to know that Qatar has well-maintained highways, clear bilingual road signs, and reliable GPS navigation. The Ministry of Interior’s Licensing Affairs Department manages the driving and vehicle licensing.

See also MOI Qatar Traffic Violation Check Online

Who is eligible to drive in Qatar?

The people who can drive in Qatar are as follows:

The minimum age of the driver should be 18+.

Visitors who have a driving license from the EU, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Australia, Canada, Japan, and the United States can drive in Qatar for up to one week.

A three-month free temporary license is available for visitors who want to stay longer than three months. 

An international driving license allows six months of driving in Qatar from the date of arrival.

Drivers with disabilities in Qatar?

The traffic department manages the case of drivers with disabilities. They

Send those drivers to the medical authority for an assessment. Their disability is defined there, and they are issued a specialized driving license depending upon their disability. 

The Traffic Department issues special parking spaces across Doha to all disabled drivers.

General Qatar Driving Rules?

The traffic police and a wide network of speed cameras strictly enforce the traffic rules. The visitors and residents have to follow some rules, which are as follows:

Seat belts

The children under 12 must wear seat belts and sit in the back. 

Overtaking Rules

While overtaking, vehicles should pass on the left.

Keeping a Driving License

The driver should keep the insurance documents, driving license, and vehicle registration documents in the car all times. 

Driving Side in Qatar

In Qatar, drivers should use the right side of the road.

Speed Limits in Qatar

In Qatar, the city roads have speed limits between 60-100 km/h, while highways are limited to 100-120 km/h.
 

Road Signs

The roads in Qatar have clear signs in both English and Arabic. The drivers have no excuse to be mistaken.

Road Etiquette & Safety

On highways, the left lane is for faster vehicles, and slower ones should stay on the right. Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles is important.
 

Licensing

Drivers must have a valid driving license. Visitors can use an international driving licenses, but residents must use Qatari driving license.


Alcohol Consumption

Qatar has a strict policy for drinking alcohol while driving. 

 

Vehicle Insurance

Ensure your vehicle is properly insured according to Qatari regulations.


Rules while Accidents and Breakdowns

If You Have an accident

Minor Collision: Move to a safe spot, turn on hazard lights, and take photos. Visit a traffic police station with the other driver(s) if the vehicles are drivable.

Serious Accidents: Call 999 for police and ambulance services. Provide your driving license, ID, vehicle registration, and insurance documents.

Rule while Vehicle Breakdown

If Your Car Breaks Down: Move off the road, activate hazard lights, and set up a warning triangle. Contact a breakdown service or Qatar Car Towing for assistance.

Conclusion

IResidents and visitors must be aware of rules and regulations for driving in Qatar. Every driver should be aware of speed limits, road rules, and how to handle emergencies. They can navigate Qatar’s roads confidently and safely. Always stay updated with traffic information and ensure your vehicle is in good condition to manage the unique driving challenges in Qatar.

City Roads: 60-100 km/h.
Highways: 100-120 km/h.

Yes, but only for up to one week. For longer stays, you need a Temporary License or an International Driving Permit.

Yes, drivers with disabilities need a medical evaluation for a specialized license and can obtain disabled parking permits.

Move to a safe location, turn on hazard lights, and take photos. For minor accidents, visit a traffic police station; for serious accidents, call 999.

Look for multi-story car parks, parking at malls, or metered street parking. Parking costs about QR3 per hour.

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