Getting Around Doha

Metro

Taxi and Private Transportation Services

Karwa is government-owned, metered taxi service in Qatar. The rides can be requested over the phone or via an app. Uber is a ride-hailing service available locally. This is popular and widely used. In addition, there are a number of companies offering private chauffeured services.

Driver’s Licenses

Qatari driver’s licenses are required of all drivers and you can only obtain it after your residence permit (RP) is issued. Since it may take as long as 45 days to obtain the RP, we recommend purchasing an International Driving Permit (IDP) ahead of your arrival to Qatar. It is possible to drive with the IDP for up to 6 months or until you receive your residence permit.

International Driving Permits (IDP) should be purchased before leaving home country. In United States, they can be bought in AAA locations usually for a small fee. If you decide to use IDP in Qatar, please be certain to also keep with you your state driver’s license at all times, as the IDP is only valid in the presence of a state driver’s license. Qatari government requires that residents switch to a Qatari-issued license upon receipt of the RP.

Obtaining a Qatari Driver’s License

In order to obtain a Qatari Driver’s License, you must first have applied for and received your RP. You will then need to undergo an eye exam, and pay a fee. Depending on which country your license is from, you will either receive the Qatari Driving license immediately or you will be required to pass a theoretical and practical exam first. Please note that the fee for the license is not a reimbursable expense. Please contact GU-Q’s Immigration and Government Relations Manager for more information and assistance with the process.

Temporary Driving Licenses

You can get a temporary Qatari driver’s license while waiting for you permanent residence permit. The license will only be valid as long as your visa is and costs 250 QR. However, you are required to get a permanent driver’s license as soon as your residence permit has been issued. 

Purchasing a Vehicle

If you plan on staying in Qatar for more than a year, purchasing a car may be a good option, as the per-month cost is generally much cheaper than leasing the same vehicle, and the resale value of well-maintained cars in Doha is high. Both new and used internationally known cars are available for sale from individuals and dealerships. Many models are not exactly the same but similar to those available in other countries, and depending on the model, prices can be higher compared to U.S. One source for used cars is Qatar Foundation’s portal called Maktabi (GU-Q email address is needed to register and use the platform). Please note that you will not be able to purchase a car until you have obtained your residence permit. This will give you some time to look around, talk to people, and decide which option is best for you.

Leasing a Vehicle

If you choose to lease a car, insurance, regular maintenance, and repair are included in the leasing price. In addition, some leasing agents will come to the scene of an accident and handle relations with the police. They will also provide a loaner vehicle if your car needs repair. Some leasing companies allow you to lease by the month, so you may turn in your car over winter or summer breaks.