DRIVING IN QATAR

This bulletin, from the US Embassy, says it all. It took me 2 months to get "comfortable" with driving here. I say "comfortable" because driving is still very stressful - other drivers can be very aggressive, and often behave as if they do not understand the rules of the road, and/or do not have any common sense.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Qatar is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Short-term visitors should obtain a valid International Driving Permit prior to arrival and may not drive in Qatar on a valid U.S. driver’s license. New residents should obtain a Qatari driver’s license as soon as possible upon arrival. Traffic accidents are Qatar’s leading cause of death. Safety regulations in Qatar are not consistent with U.S. standards, and informal rules of the road and local customs often prove frustrating for first-time visitors. The combination of Qatar’s extensive use of roundabouts, many road construction projects and the high speeds at which many drivers travel can prove challenging. Despite aggressive driving on Qatar’s roads, drivers should avoid altercations or arguments over traffic incidents, particularly with Qatari citizens who, if insulted, have filed complaints with local police that resulted in the arrest and overnight detention of U.S. citizens. Drivers can be held liable for injuries to other persons involved in a vehicular accident, and local police have detained U.S. citizens overnight until the extent of the person’s injuries were known. The rate of automobile accidents due to driver error and excessive speed is higher than in the United States. In rural areas, poor lighting, wandering camels and un-shouldered roads are other hazards.