New Traffic Regulations

Qatar is getting tougher again with its chaotic drivers with the implementation of a new traffic law. Driving in Qatar has been compared to an extreme sport by the US State Department, and fines, despite the huge number that have been paid, have proved ineffective. Now offenders will get points as well as pay fines, and can eventually lose their license. (See Traffic Offences for more details of the complicated system.) In addition, other penalties have been made tougher, and will include fines of up to QR50,000 and prison sentences.

While this is a positive step in a country where seventy percent of youth’s deaths are caused by traffic accidents, there are concerns about fair implementation. After all, this is the country where a senior policeman blamed the state of the roads on Indian drivers. While it is true to say there are many dangerous expat drivers, Qataris have to take some of the blame. There is, after all, a big difference between being a skilled driver and being a safe driver.

Also see:

Road Safety Signs

Driving in Qatar: Practical Information

Qatar Visitor's 90 Second Guide to Driving in Qatar (podcast)

Qatar Visitor e-store (U.S.)

Qatar Visitor E-store (U.K.)

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Qatar Doha Middle East Driving