The Ministry of Interior in Doha, Qatar has introduced new rules and procedures for traffic rule violators, vehicle exit permits, payment of traffic fines, and designating lanes for taxis, limousines, and motorcycles for delivery vehicles. These updates are based on the Traffic Law issued by Decree-Law No. (19) of 2007 and the decision of the Minister of Interior No. (21) of 2024. Effective from May 22, 2024, the General Directorate of Traffic has implemented the following rules and procedures.
Firstly, a permit must be obtained from the General Directorate of Traffic for mechanical vehicles to exit the country, with specific conditions such as no outstanding traffic violations, specifying the final destination, and providing proof of ownership or consent. Some vehicles are exempt from this requirement, such as those bound for GCC countries and goods transporting vehicles.
Secondly, rules for the return of vehicles with Qatari plates require owners of vehicles outside the country to return them within 90 days unless they obtain a permit from the licensing authority. Violating these rules may result in administrative impoundment of the vehicle for up to 90 days.
Effective immediately, mechanical vehicles outside the country must undergo a technical inspection inside the country to renew their registration. Failure to do so within 30 days of expiration may result in legal actions, including imprisonment and fines. A 50% discount on traffic violations for mechanical vehicles will be applied from June 1, 2024, until August 31, 2024.
Starting from September 1, 2024, traffic law violators will not be allowed to leave the country without paying fines and dues through various channels such as the Metrash2 application, Ministry of Interior website, traffic sections, or unified service centers. Additionally, buses with more than 25 passengers, taxis, limousines, and motorcycles for delivery services are prohibited from using the left lane on road networks with three or more lanes in each direction, with lane changes allowed at least 300 meters before intersections. Violating this rule may result in legal actions as per the Traffic Law.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Interior in Qatar has introduced new rules and procedures to regulate traffic violations, vehicle exit permits, payment of fines, and lane designations for specific vehicles. These updates aim to improve road safety and traffic flow in the country. It is important for vehicle owners and drivers to comply with these regulations to avoid legal actions and ensure smooth travel within and outside of Qatar.
