Road Trips in Qatar

One of the most vibrant places to start your journey around Qatar is, of course, Doha – the country’s capital. While walking around its colourful streets, fragrant markets, and beautiful landmarks dotting the cityscape, you shouldn’t miss such highlights as the Museum of Islamic Art, Falcon Souq, Souq Al Wakrah, and Torch Doha.

Those who expect a great cultural immersion should definitely travel to Katara Cultural Village. Here, you’ll be amazed with the beauty of the Katara Mosque that is one of the most richly decorated buildings in the region. You can also take a quad trip around the Doha Desert, where you’ll encounter a never-ending vastness of sandy areas. 

For one of the most brilliant sites in the whole country, you should consider Al Jassasiya where you’ll have an opportunity to discover the beautiful petroglyphs. Among the various shapes that they represent, you’ll spot animals, daisies, and boats. For more interesting old places, you can also visit the sites of Zakreet, Ruwayda, or Zubarah.

Travellers who would like to spend some relaxing time on the beach can choose one of the seaside resorts that Qatar offers. There is plenty to choose from, including Umm Sa’id, Ar Khuwayr, or Al Khawr. 

Qatar follows right-hand traffic. There exist many dusty roads and paths in this Middle Eastern country; therefore, those travellers who would like to have a more pleasant experience can go for a 4x4 off-road vehicle that will make their journey slightly more convenient. Qatar follows many European traffic standards. For travelling over sand, it’s advisable to deflate slightly your tyres. When you go back on a regular surface, you should inflate them to their original state. 

The minimum driving age is 18, but the minimum driving age if you want to rent a vehicle is 21. Unfortunately, some car rental companies tend to apply extra charges in case of young drivers. You’ll be required to be as old as 25 in order to rent a car. What’s more, you’ll need a minimum of a third party insurance in Qatar.

Qatar implements strict regulations concerning drinking and driving. Since it is a Muslim country, there is zero tolerance for any blood alcohol level. The penalties include severe on-the-spot fines, jail, and even deportation.

What’s more, avoid driving and talking on your mobile phone. Instead, invest in a hands-free set or make sure that the car rental company provides you with one.

Qatar is characterised by very humid weather and high temperatures. That’s why it’s recommended to always have plenty of water with you in case of a car accident or a breakdown.

The documents that you should carry while travelling around Qatar are: driver’s licence, International Driving Permit, insurance documents, registration documents. During a routine check up, you can be asked to show one of these documents or even the whole set.

The speed limits in Qatar are: 60 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h in rural areas, and 120 km on motorways.Speed cameras in Qatar are seen as illegal; therefore, the easiest way to avoid a ticket is to stick to the prevailing speed limits. There are no on-the-spot fines in Qatar, you’ll be given a regular ticket that you’re supposed to pay at a police precinct. Qatar doesn’t have any fixed speed cameras, but there are plenty of speed traps that you might come across while travelling around the country.

Due to immense traffic and congested streets, it is often very difficult to find parking spaces in major cities, especially in Doha. You’ll spot a number of metered parking places located along the road. It’ll be sometimes very difficult to find free parking areas so summon up some patience or simply go for the metered option.

When taking a road trip in Qatar, there are several factors to be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Keep these tips in mind as you plan and embark on your adventure:

• Driving conditions: Qatar has well-maintained roads and highways, but off-road driving in the desert can be challenging and requires a suitable vehicle and experience. If you plan to explore off the beaten track, consider joining a guided tour or renting a 4x4 vehicle.

• Driving rules: Qatar has strict traffic rules, and penalties for violations can be severe. Always follow the speed limits, wear seat belts, and avoid using your phone while driving. Additionally, remember that Qatar has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol.

• Weather conditions: Qatar experiences extreme heat, particularly between May and September. If you're traveling during these months, make sure your vehicle's air conditioning is functioning properly, and stay hydrated. Also, be aware of the possibility of sudden sandstorms, which can reduce visibility and make driving more difficult.

• Navigation: GPS devices and apps like Google Maps are generally reliable in Qatar, but having a physical map or downloaded offline map as a backup is a good idea, especially when exploring more remote areas.

• Local customs and etiquette: Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or cultural sites. During the holy month of Ramadan, be mindful of local practices, such as not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

• Fuel stations: While fuel is relatively inexpensive in Qatar, stations can be sparse in more remote areas. Make sure to fill up your tank before venturing out and plan your route to include fuel stops along the way.

• Emergency numbers: In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services. It's also a good idea to have the contact information for your car rental company and the local embassy or consulate handy.

• Car rental and insurance: Ensure that your rental car has adequate insurance coverage, and always carry your driver's license, passport, and rental agreement with you. International driving permits are not required for most nationalities but check with your car rental company for any specific requirements.

By staying aware of these factors and taking the necessary precautions, you can look forward to a safe and enjoyable road trip in Qatar.

The best time of the year for taking a road trip in Qatar is during the cooler months, from November to early April. During this period, the weather is more pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). These months also see lower humidity levels, which makes exploring the country's attractions and landscapes more enjoyable.

From November to February, you may also experience occasional rain showers, but they are generally short-lived and should not significantly impact your road trip plans. Additionally, the cooler months coincide with several cultural events and festivals, such as the Qatar International Food Festival and the Doha Film Festival, which can add to the overall experience of your road trip.

It's worth noting that the months between May and September can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The high heat and humidity during this period can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and even potentially dangerous, especially for those unaccustomed to such conditions.

In summary, the cooler months from November to early April are the most suitable time for a road trip in Qatar, as the more favorable weather conditions allow for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The cost of a road trip in Qatar can vary depending on factors such as accommodation preferences, dining choices, and the type of vehicle rented. Qatar is generally considered a more expensive destination due to its thriving economy and the high quality of life.

For a road trip in Qatar, you can expect to spend a moderate amount on accommodations, ranging from budget hotels to luxury options. Dining can be quite affordable if you choose to eat at local restaurants and cafes, but costs will increase if you opt for fine dining establishments or international chains. Additionally, entrance fees for some tourist attractions and activities may add to your overall expenses.

Car rental costs in Qatar can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company you choose. For a compact or economy car, you might spend around $30 to $50 per day, while renting an SUV or a 4x4 vehicle suitable for off-roading can cost upwards of $60 to $100 per day. Keep in mind that these prices may fluctuate based on the rental duration, demand, and seasonal factors.

When planning your road trip in Qatar, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and budget, as well as any additional expenses such as fuel, parking, and potential road tolls. By researching and comparing various options for accommodations, dining, and car rentals, you can tailor your road trip experience to fit your desired level of comfort and expenditure.

To help you plan your road trip in Qatar, consider using some of the following guidebooks and road maps that provide valuable information on the country's attractions, culture, and travel tips:

• Lonely Planet Oman, UAE & Arabian Peninsula: This comprehensive guidebook covers Qatar along with other countries in the region. It offers insights into local customs, must-see attractions, accommodations, and dining options. This guide will help you make the most of your road trip experience in Qatar.

• Insight Guides Oman & the UAE: While this guide focuses primarily on Oman and the UAE, it also includes a dedicated section on Qatar, providing useful information about the country's history, culture, and points of interest.

• The Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places on Earth: This guidebook features Qatar's capital city, Doha, as one of the top destinations in the world. It highlights the city's stunning architecture, cultural landmarks, and shopping experiences.

In addition to guidebooks, it's essential to have a reliable road map to help you navigate during your road trip in Qatar. Some options include:

• Qatar Complete Residents' Guide: This guidebook includes a detailed road map of Qatar, outlining the country's major highways and points of interest.

• Online and smartphone maps: GPS-based maps, such as Google Maps or Waze, are useful tools for planning and navigating during your road trip. Ensure that you have a reliable data connection or download the offline maps for Qatar to access them without an internet connection.

• Paper road maps: While not as common, you can still find paper road maps for Qatar in some bookstores, travel agencies, or possibly at car rental agencies. These can be useful as a backup or to help you plan your route in more detail.

By utilizing these guidebooks and road maps, you'll be well-prepared for an unforgettable road trip experience in Qatar.