Qatar has been making great strides in its transportation and mobility sector, with the Ministry of Transport (MoT) conducting 2,794 transactions through its Land Transport Sector in the first quarter of this year. The land transport sector is seen as a key enabler of the Qatari economy, with services including road defect detection, safety on roads, and building permit requests being offered. In Q1 of 2024, 1445 transactions were related to land transport licensing, 712 to land transport planning, and 637 were about road affairs. The ministry aims to develop a state-of-the-art transport network in line with the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030.
The percentage of electrified public buses in Qatar reached 73 percent in Q1 of 2024, with the plan on track to reach 100 percent electric public bus fleet by 2030. Qatar has also ranked ninth globally in the ‘Global Electric Mobility Readiness Index (GEMRIX) 2023’ by Arthur D Little. The country has been focusing on achieving zero emission transition in transportation as part of the Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy, with initiatives such as launching the Education City Tram Green Line and setting up 84 fully electric bus routes. Additionally, 90 percent of Karwa taxis have been replaced with eco-friendly hybrid vehicles.
The land transport planning of the land transport sector sets the general planning policy for land and railway transport activities in Qatar. It prepares necessary studies and design plans, as well as planning the construction and development of land and railway transport networks, in coordination with relevant authorities. The land transport licensing enforces laws and regulations of land and railway transport, reviews and approves license applications, and ensures compliance with specifications. The mission of the Ministry is to build an integrated transport system that uses advanced technologies, serving all local sectors while connecting Qatar to the wider regional and international economy.
Transport and land use policies in Qatar aim to improve coordination between agencies and promote integration of transportation and land use planning. The policies also establish mechanisms for developer contributions to transportation infrastructure, particularly for major developments. By focusing on the development of a state-of-the-art transport network and achieving zero emissions in transportation, Qatar is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable and efficient mobility. The country’s efforts in improving its transportation sector align with the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030, aiming to create a diversified and sustainable economy for the future.
In conclusion, Qatar’s land transport sector plays a crucial role in the country’s economic growth and development. By focusing on electrification of public buses, improving public transport infrastructure, and setting high standards for land transport planning and licensing, Qatar is making significant strides towards achieving a sustainable and efficient transport network. With initiatives like the Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy and ranking ninth globally in electric mobility readiness, Qatar is on track to become a leader in sustainable transportation and mobility. By continuing to invest in advanced technologies and integrating transportation and land use planning, Qatar is paving the way for a more connected and environmentally friendly future.
