Public Transport

A fleet of modern buses has recently been used to create Qatar's first public bus routes. These are popular with some segments of the society, but for most western expatriates taxis and limousine companies remain the only viable form of public transport.

The tax fleet has recently been modernised, but remains cheap to use by western standards (QR20-30 will take you across Doha). They are readily available outside the largest shopping malls, but it can be a frustrating wait when you phone them to collect you from home (a problem the company claims it is working to resolve).

There are also two limousine companies you can telephone and book a door-to-door service. These are similar to the radio-cab service you will be familiar with. It is more expensive than the ordinary taxis (approximately double the cost), but more reliable. If travelling late at night (especially to/from parties) we recommend staff use a limousine.

Driving

A local driving licence is required to drive after your first week in the country. This requires an eye test and identification of a few traffic signs.

If you are keen to drive during your first few months in Qatar, it is worth obtaining an International Licence before you get here. Some car hire companies will allow you to drive on this for an extended period, otherwise you need to obtain a local temporary licence. You cannot obtain a full Qatari driving licence until your Residence Permit has been completed.

The school is able to help new staff who are keen to drive quickly to lease cars. A number of local leasing companies are available, with a small Japanese run about costing around QR1,800 per month.

Car Ownership

Around half our expatriate staff drive their own cars - they either buy them or take them on long term lease from one of the local rental companies. Leasing has the advantage of being all inclusive (you avoid the hassles of car servicing, annual road permit renewal etc.) and you can return the car over the July/August holiday. For those who prefer to buy, there is a wide range of car distributors available and a thriving secondhand market.

If you think you might drive, be sure to bring the original of your UK/Australian driving licence with you - without it you will have to sit the local driving test.

You need a full local driving licence and your residence permit before you can own a car. There are plenty of local car rental companies for those requiring a short term hire in the interim.