Doha: Starting 01 September 2024, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) will enforce new regulations mandating the payment of traffic fines before leaving the country. This announcement was made during a press conference attended by Brig. Abdullah Khalifa Al-Muftah, Director of the Public Relations Department at MoI, along with senior officials from the General Directorate of Traffic.
Key changes that will be effective from September 2024 are as follows:
Permit Requirement for Vehicle Exit
- Vehicles must obtain an exit permit from the General Directorate of Traffic.
- Conditions include:
- No outstanding traffic violations.
- Specifying the vehicle’s final destination.
- Proof of vehicle owner’s consent if the applicant is not the owner.
Exemptions
- Vehicles traveling to GCC countries without traffic violations.
- Goods transporting vehicles.
Return Rules for Qatari-Plated Vehicles
- Vehicles outside Qatar must return within 90 days from the announcement date unless a permit is obtained.
- Vehicles permitted to leave must return before the permit expires, with renewal options available.
Penalties for Violations
- Non-compliance may result in administrative impoundment of the vehicle for up to 90 days.
Registration Renewal
- Vehicles abroad cannot renew their registration without a technical inspection in Qatar.
- Failure to renew within 30 days of expiry requires returning the license plates. Violators will be referred to Public Prosecution.
Traffic Violation Discount
- A 50% discount on traffic violations will be available from 01 June 2024 to 31 August 2024. This applies to violations recorded within the past three years.
Lane Restrictions
- Effective 22 May 2024, buses with over 25 passengers, taxis, limousines, and delivery motorcycles are prohibited from using the left lane on roads with three or more lanes. Lane changes must occur 300 meters before intersections.
Enforcement
- From 01 September 2024, traffic law violators cannot leave the country without paying fines via the Metrash2 app, MoI website, traffic sections, or service centers.
These new measures aim to enhance traffic law compliance and streamline vehicle exit and return procedures.