Qatar Implements Travel Ban for Traffic Offenders Effective September 1

Qatar has announced stringent measures to tackle traffic violations, including a ban on individuals with outstanding fines from leaving the country.

Starting September 1, 2024, Qatar will enforce a travel ban preventing traffic law violators from exiting through any state borders land, air, or sea until fines and dues are settled through designated channels.

Preventing Traffic Violators from Leaving Qatar

Brigadier Abdullah Khalifa Al Muftah, Director of the Public Relations Department at Qatar’s Ministry of Interior, emphasized that effective from September 1, violators must clear their fines through the (Metrash2) application, Ministry of Interior website, traffic sections, or unified service centers before departure.

Moreover, a 50% discount on traffic violations for all motor vehicles is applicable from June 1, 2024, to August 31, 2024, including violations recorded within the past three years.

To obtain a permit for a vehicle to exit the country, the vehicle must be free of any outstanding traffic violations, and the final destination must be specified. Exceptions include vehicles bound for GCC countries with no violations and driver-owner consent, and goods transporting vehicles.

Strict Rules for Vehicle Return and Lane Usage

Rules for the return of vehicles with Qatari plates stipulate a 90-day period from the date of announcement for return, with penalties for non-compliance, including administrative impoundment for up to 90 days.

Furthermore, vehicles outside Qatar must undergo technical inspection upon registration renewal, failing which the owner must return license plates to the General Directorate of Traffic.

Effective May 22, 2024, buses with over 25 passengers, taxis, and limousines are barred from using the left lane on road networks with three or more lanes, with strict lane regulations for delivery motorcycle riders.

Failure to comply with regulations will result in legal action, including referral to the Public Prosecution for appropriate procedures as per Qatar’s Traffic Law.

These measures reflect Qatar’s commitment to road safety and ensuring compliance with traffic regulations to enhance public welfare and safety.

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