In QATAR 2025 was announced as a Below Standard roads were done with state of the art technology with the focus of helping with the prevention of accidents and to ensure smooth driving. First timers of visitors as well as locals in Qatar driving for the first time, only need to learn the basics. This is the most important driving lesson in the country.
Increased Focus on Speed and Signal Enforcement
2025 was the year the focus on speed limit violations reached new heights, even on highways and city roads. The posted speed limit on urban roads is 60-80 km/h is the new standard and for highways 120 km/h is the new standard. Every 10 km/h over the limit is now fined QR 100, capping at QR 1000. Every over speeding fine gives 4 black points. Every over speeding fine gives 4 black points. Court actions are possible for reckless driving actions and violations. Fines are fixed for dangerous driving. Sudden lane changes and even risky driving actions are likely to be penalized as all violations are and to be detected and recorded by smart technology.
Recent Smart Systems in Parking
Parking illegally has been punished for longer than most people can remember, but recently it has been punished more severely than before. QR 1000 has been fines for blocking pedestrian walkways, and QR 2000 has been fined for misusing parking for disabled people. Smart parking meters have been issued by local authorities along with payments through a mobile app. People who overstay in a paid parking zone have to pay a fine of QR 500, and legal parking efforts for all users of the road have been increased.
New Aggressive Driving and Drunk Driving Laws
With the introduction of the new drink and drive policy in Qatar, Qatar is now a country with the most aggressive drink and drive policy in the Gulf with fines of over QR 50,000. Jail time and deportation can be a consequence and is a likely scenario in the case of foreigners. People who drive in a manner which is aggressive, backwards, or who make illegal U-turns have been punished with QR fines and loss of points from our driving license.
Traffic Rules Violation and Discipline Priority
The new 2025 updates focus on lane discipline and right-of-way priority violations. The new rules state that motorists that do not keep to the right lane or overtake on the left lane can be fined QR 500. Under new regional agreements, the GCC will implement tiered traffic fines which can be very costly to drivers who do not comply in any country that a driver uses regional roads.
Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts
The use of surveillance technology and real-time alerts on violations has become the new standard for traffic law enforcement. Cameras placed on major roads issue fines that drivers receive alerts about on the Metrash app, especially when they are nearing the maximum threshold of demerit points. The law emphasizes the need to prevent re-offending and to encourage the drivers to become more responsible through constant reminders.
Very Short Table – Example of 2025 Fines
| Violation | Fine (QR) | Black Points |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (30 km/h over) | 700 | 1 |
| Red Light Violation | 8,000 | 7 |
| Illegal Parking | 1,000 | 0 |
| DUI | 50,000 | 7 |
FAQs
Q1: What’s the penalty for running a red light?
A: QR 8,000, 7 black points, and possible court action.
Q2: How many black points can lead to license suspension?
A: 14 black points will lead to a suspension.
Q3: Are these rules different for tourists?
A: Yes. Tourists can use an International Driving Permit valid for 3 months. Afterwards, they will be required to obtain a local license.
