Doha, Qatar – A temporary traffic closure is scheduled for Al Waab Street near Khalifa International Stadium on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) announced the closure, impacting key intersections and routes in the Al Waab area. Motorists are urged to plan ahead and utilize alternative routes during the specified timeframe to avoid potential delays.
The affected areas include the stretch of Al Waab Street from Al Manaseer Intersection heading towards Mehairja Intersection, the section from Mehairja Intersection to Villaggio Intersection, and the route from Al Aziziya Intersection in the direction of Khalifa Stadium Intersection. This closure is expected to impact commuters traveling to and from the stadium, as well as those using Al Waab Street as a major thoroughfare. The MoI advises all drivers to be aware of the changes and exercise caution.
Understanding the Al Waab Street Traffic Closure
While the MoI has not detailed the specific reason for the traffic closure, such measures are commonly implemented to facilitate events or maintenance work. Khalifa International Stadium is a prominent venue in Doha, having hosted events during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and regularly accommodating sporting and cultural gatherings. It’s likely the closure is related to preparations for a scheduled event.
Impact on Commuters
The closure of these key intersections on Al Waab Street will undoubtedly cause disruptions to normal traffic flow. Drivers regularly using this route for their daily commute or to access nearby residential areas and commercial centers should anticipate increased travel times. The Ministry recommends following directional signage and adhering to posted speed limits on alternative routes.
Alternative Routes and Planning
Motorists are encouraged to explore alternative routes to bypass the closed sections of Al Waab Street. Utilizing roads like the Doha Expressway or local streets parallel to Al Waab Street may offer viable detours. Checking real-time traffic conditions via navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze before and during travel is highly recommended to identify and avoid congested areas.
Qatar has been actively developing its road infrastructure in recent years, including improvements to Al Waab Street itself. These upgrades, while ultimately beneficial, sometimes necessitate temporary closures for construction or maintenance. The MoI typically provides advance notice of such disruptions to minimize inconvenience to the public.
The timing of the closure, between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, suggests an attempt to minimize impact during peak commuting hours. However, it still coincides with a period of significant traffic activity as people travel for leisure or evening engagements. This could lead to increased congestion on surrounding roads.
Previous large-scale events at Khalifa International Stadium have prompted similar, though often more extensive, road closures. The MoI has consistently demonstrated a proactive approach to managing traffic during these periods, deploying personnel to direct vehicles and provide assistance to motorists. This upcoming closure is likely to be managed in a similar fashion.
The Ministry of Interior’s announcement also serves as a reminder for drivers to prioritize road safety. Maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding distractions, and being mindful of pedestrians and cyclists are crucial, especially when navigating unfamiliar or congested routes. Awareness of potential delays can also contribute to a more relaxed and focused driving experience.
Looking ahead, the MoI is expected to monitor traffic flow during the closure and make adjustments as needed. Further announcements may be issued if the duration of the closure is extended or if additional routes are affected. Residents and commuters should continue to monitor official channels for updates regarding Doha traffic and any potential disruptions. The effectiveness of the implemented diversions will be a key factor in assessing the overall impact of the closure.
It remains to be seen whether this closure is a one-off event or part of a larger series of works planned for the Al Waab area. Ongoing infrastructure projects and the potential for future events at Khalifa International Stadium mean that further traffic management measures are likely in the coming months.
Source: Ministry of Interior Qatar
The Peninsula Qatar
Google Maps
Waze
