Car Rental in Qatar
Compare offers from car rental companies in Qatar and book a car online in just a few minutes. Transparent prices with no hidden fees, a security deposit blocked on a credit card, and pickup available at Hamad International Airport in Doha, as well as in Al Wakrah and Lusail.
Rental terms in Qatar
The basic rules of most rental providers in the country. Exact terms of a specific offer are shown in the city search before payment.
- Driver age — from 21 years.
- Driving experience — from 1 years.
- Drivers under 25 pay a young-driver surcharge.
- Fuel policy: “full-to-full”.
- Basic insurance (CDW/TP) is included in the price.
- A Full CDW package reduces the excess to zero.
- No-deposit rentals are often available.
- National driving licence.
- Driver’s passport.
- International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
- A bank card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
Driving rules in Qatar
A driver’s guide for the country — common traveler questions: currency, fuel, speed limits, toll roads.
| Currency | QAR |
|---|---|
| Speed limits | 60 city · 80 rural · 100 expressway · 120 motorway (km/h) |
| Blood alcohol limit | up to 0 ‰ |
| Daytime headlights | not required |
| Vignette (toll roads) | not required |
Traffic rules: Qatar
Right-hand traffic with modern multi-lane roads.
Speed limits: 60 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, up to 100 km/h on expressways, and 120 km/h on motorways. Always follow road signs, as speed limits may change frequently.
Speed cameras are used extensively, and there is no tolerance for speeding. Driving at 121 km/h in a 120 km/h zone already results in a fine.
Zero alcohol tolerance: the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. Any amount of alcohol can result in criminal charges, imprisonment, and deportation.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, including those in the rear seats.
Children under 10 years old must travel in the rear seats, and children under 4 years old must use a child seat.
Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free system.
Vehicles already on a roundabout have the right of way.
There are no toll roads or vignettes in Qatar.
All fines issued to rental cars are passed on to the driver. They should be paid before leaving the country, otherwise an exit ban may be imposed.
Be cautious when driving outside cities at night, as camels may enter the roads.
Frequently asked questions about car rental in Qatar
License, deposit, border crossing, driver age and toll roads.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Qatar?
Yes. Tourists from countries outside the GCC must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) together with their national driver’s license. Citizens of GCC countries may use their national licenses.
What is the minimum age to rent a car?
The minimum age is 21 years with at least 1 year of driving experience. Premium and luxury vehicles often require drivers to be at least 25 years old with more driving experience.
Is a security deposit required?
Yes. A security deposit is blocked on the driver’s credit card. Debit cards and cash are usually not accepted.
Where can I pick up and return the car?
The most common pickup location is Hamad International Airport in Doha, where rental desks operate 24/7. Cars can also be picked up or returned at rental offices in Doha, Al Wakrah, and Lusail.
Can I drive to neighboring countries?
No. Qatar’s only land border is with Saudi Arabia, and almost all rental companies prohibit taking rental cars outside the country.
Which insurance should I choose?
Basic insurance is included in the rental price. You can add full coverage with zero excess, so you won’t pay for minor damage.
How strict are the drink-driving laws in Qatar?
Extremely strict. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%, with zero tolerance. Any amount of alcohol can lead to imprisonment, fines, and deportation for foreign nationals.
Who pays traffic fines issued to a rental car?
The rental company passes all fines on to the driver. Check for outstanding fines on the MOI portal using the vehicle registration number and pay them before departure, otherwise you may face an exit ban.
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