Getting around Doha, the vibrant capital city of Qatar, is easy, efficient, and affordable because of its wide range of transportation options for residents and visitors. You won’t be lost if you’re exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, commuting to work, or simply enjoying a leisurely day out.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss all the details you need to know about navigating Doha using public transport, taxis, limousines, and even traditional dhow boats.
Discover the Convenience of the Doha Metro
At the heart of Doha’s transportation network lies the state-of-the-art Doha Metro. Since its inauguration in 2019, this driverless rail system has transformed how people move around the city.
The Doha Metro has a sleek design, exceptional cleanliness, and impressive efficiency. That’s why it has quickly become the go-to choice for commuters and tourists alike. The metro comprises three main lines—Red, Green, and Gold—each serving different city areas.
Red Line
The Red Line, also known as the Coast Line, runs from Al Wakra in the south to Lusail in the north, spanning 40 km and 18 stations. It’s an excellent option for those exploring Doha and its popular attractions such as the Katara Cultural Village and Qatar University.
Geen Line
The Green Line, or the Education Line, connects Al Mansoura to Al Riffa, with 11 stations along the way. This line is perfect for accessing educational institutions like Hamad Hospital and Qatar National Library.
Gold Line
Lastly, the Gold Line also referred to as the Historic Line operates east-west from Ras Bu Abboud to Al Aziziyah, serving 11 stations. It’s a must for anyone interested in exploring Doha’s cultural heritage, with stops at iconic locations such as Souq Waqif and the Qatar National Museum.
Here’s the Doha Metro route map so you can conveniently check all the metro stations. This is the most up-to-date map as of 2024.
Metro Timings and Fares
The Doha Metro provides convenient city-wide service, operating Sunday until Thursday from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. If you’re planning a weekend exploration, you’ll enjoy extended hours on Friday (2:00 PM to 1:00 AM) and Saturday (6:00 AM to 11:59 PM).
Keep in mind that metro trains arrive every three minutes during peak periods so that you won’t have to wait long for a ride. To utilize the metro system, you’ll need to acquire a travel card. There are three options available to suit your travel needs:
- Limited Use (paper card): A single journey costs QAR 2. This card is ideal for occasional metro users or visitors who don’t plan to use the metro frequently during their stay.
- Standard Travel Card (reusable plastic card): This card is perfect for frequent metro users. It costs QAR 10 and can be easily topped up with credit as you need it. Standard journeys are incredibly budget-friendly at just QAR 2, and you’ll enjoy a daily cap of QAR 6 for unlimited travel.
- Gold Travel Card (reusable card): For a touch of luxury, this card costs QAR 100 and gives you exclusive access to the Goldclub sections of the metro. These sections offer a more spacious and quieter travel experience. Gold Club fares are QAR 10 per journey, with a convenient daily cap of QAR 30.
Enjoy a Seamless Connection with the Lusail Tram
As an extension of the Doha Metro, the Lusail Tram serves the newly developed Lusail City, located 23 km north of Doha. This modern tram system offers a smooth connection to the Doha Metro at Lusail Central Station.
For first-timers, using the Lusail Tram is easy—simply tap your existing travel card upon boarding, just as you would on the metro. This allows travelers and locals convenient access to attractions like Place Vendome Mall and the impressive Katara Towers. Take a look at the updated Lusail route map in the image below:
Buses: For a Comprehensive City Tour
Mowasalat, Qatar’s state-owned transport company, operates an extensive bus network that complements the metro. This network of buses connects Hamad International Airport to various destinations throughout Doha.
The metro excels at reaching major attractions. But buses are ideal for visiting the modern marvels of Doha, like The Pearl Qatar, a popular man-made island in the West Bay district.
To ride the buses, you’ll need a Karwa Smartcard. These travel cards are available at the airport, Doha Bus Station, and Karwa Bus Station. A limited smartcard costs QAR 10 and provides two journeys within 24 hours.
With over 70 bus routes available, planning your journey is a breeze. You can use the Karwa Bus app or check route maps at bus stations. Some notable bus routes include:
- Route 109: Airport to City Center (and Beyond). This route links Hamad International Airport and Doha City Center, stopping at popular spots like Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art. Buses depart every 30 minutes. The ride takes about 45 minutes (traffic depending).
- Route 120: The Pearl Qatar Connection. Hop on this route to travel between The Pearl Qatar and Doha City Center. It also stops at Katara Cultural Village and West Bay. Buses run every 20 minutes, and the journey takes roughly 30 minutes.
- Route 747: Express to the City. This is your fastest way from Hamad International Airport to Al Ghanim Bus Station in the heart of Doha. Buses run frequently (every 15 minutes) and the trip takes just about 20 minutes.
Experience the Comfort of Taxis and Limousines
Beyond the metro and buses, Doha offers a variety of convenient options for shorter trips or exploring areas outside their reach. Taxis provide a reliable and affordable solution.
Karwa Metered Taxis
These are the government-owned Karwa metered taxis, easily identifiable by their distinctive turquoise color. Hailing one on the street is an option, or you can book one through the Karwa Taxi app for added convenience.
Alternatively, you can call 800-TAXI (8294) to request a pick-up. Flag-down fares start at a reasonable QAR 4 within Doha. If you’re coming from the airport, it starts at QAR 25 with an additional charge of QAR 1.6 per kilometer after that.
Ride-Hailing Services
For a more tech-driven experience, popular ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem offer user-friendly booking through their mobile applications. These mobile apps provide real-time tracking of your ride.
In terms of payment, you can do so via credit card, and you even have the option to split the fare with your companions. Fares start from a budget-friendly QAR 8 for Uber and QAR 7.5 for Careem. This mode of transportation in Doha is an excellent choice for exploring the city without breaking the bank.
Traveling on Limousine
If you’re seeking luxury during your travels, limousine services are available through local and international providers. These companies, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz, boast a diverse fleet of vehicles, from ordinary sedans to spacious vans, catering to various group sizes and specific occasions.
You can book Limousine services by the hour or by the day. These bookings typically include a professional chauffeur with extensive knowledge of the city to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Obviously, prices will vary depending on the provider and the type of vehicle chosen. Standard sedans will cost you around QAR 200-500 per hour, while luxury vehicles or vans can range from QAR 500-1000 per hour.
Uncover Doha’s Charm with a Dhow Boat Tour
These wooden vessels, the traditional dhow boats of Doha, were once the mainstay of fishing and pearl diving. Today, they offer a charming way to explore the city’s coastline. Cruise along the water and take in iconic landmarks like the Museum of Islamic Art and the dazzling West Bay skyline.
You’ll find dhow boats moored along the Corniche, Al Khor, and Al Wakra. These vessels offer a variety of experiences, from short sightseeing excursions to delightful dinner cruises with authentic Qatari cuisine and traditional entertainment.
Expect to pay around QAR 50-100 per person for a typical one-hour sightseeing tour. Dinner cruises range from QAR 150-300 per person, depending on what’s included and the duration of the trip. Remember, it’s always best to agree on the fare upfront to avoid any surprises later.
Driving in Doha: Licenses and Rental Options
If you plan on driving in Doha, you must have a valid Qatari driver’s license. For visitors, an International Driving Permit (IDP) can be used for up to 6 months or until you obtain your residence permit.
To get a Qatari driving license, you’ll need your residence permit, undergo an eye exam, and pay a QAR 250 fee. Please note that some nationalities may also be required to pass theoretical and practical driving tests.
For extended stays in Doha, purchasing or leasing a car might be more cost-effective than relying on taxis or public transport. You can find both new and used vehicles from dealerships and individual sellers. Well-maintained cars even hold their resale value well.
Numerous local and international car rental companies operate in Doha if you prefer to rent a car. Companies like Avis, Budget, Europcar, and Hertz have branches at Hamad International Airport, making renting a car directly upon arrival very convenient. Rental rates vary but expect to pay around QAR 80-150 per day for a compact vehicle and QAR 150-300 for a mid-size SUV.
Helpful Tips for Getting Around Doha
- Unlimited Rides: If you plan to use the metro and tram extensively, opt for the Day Pass Travel Card (QAR 6). This gives you unlimited rides within a 24-hour period.
- Beyond Public Transit: For longer trips or destinations outside the metro and bus network’s reach, taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are your best bet. They offer direct and convenient transportation.
- Dhow Dealings: Always agree on the fare upfront before boarding a dhow boat. This avoids unexpected costs, as prices can vary between operators and tour types.
- Driving Details: If you plan to drive, get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before arriving in Doha. Your IDP and a valid driver’s license from your home country will allow you to legally drive in Qatar for up to 6 months.
- Lease with Ease: Consider leasing a car for stays over a year. It can be more cost-effective than buying and offers the convenience of a personal vehicle without the long-term financial commitment of ownership.
- Cash is Convenient: Always carry some Qatari Riyals (currency). While many places accept credit cards, some taxis and dhow boats might not.
- App Assistance: Download the Karwa Bus and Karwa Taxi apps. These apps are essential for planning bus journeys, viewing routes, finding schedules, and booking taxis—all from your phone.
This comprehensive guide makes getting around Doha and all its corners easy. From the metro’s efficiency to the charm of a dhow boat ride, you have the tools to reach any destination. You can now focus on what matters most—experiencing the city’s vibrant culture, breathtaking architecture, and all its exciting attractions.
