Car hire in Qatar

Renting a car in Qatar is particularly advantageous if you're planning to explore not only the capital Doha, but also other locations. A vehicle allows you to organize an active vacation and travel between different attractions. You can visit ancient forts, modern architecture, and scenic natural sites.

You'll be able to decide yourself where and when to go, where to make stops, and how much time to spend at places you enjoy. Modern roads and short distances make journeys quick and comfortable.

Advantages of Car Rental on Localrent

Localrent is a service for arranging car rentals from local companies in Qatar. You won't need to compare prices and rental terms from different providers yourself. All the best offers are already collected on the website.

Using the Localrent service, you'll get several advantages:

1. Transparent pricing without hidden fees. The final rental amount is displayed during booking. There will be no additional taxes or unexpected charges.
2. Low deposits. For many models, the deposit amount is minimal. You can also find rental options without a deposit.
3. Small advance payment. To book a car, you only need to pay 15–20% of the total amount.
4. Variety of filters. You can quickly select a car by class, deposit conditions, transmission type, or other parameters important to you.
5. Wide selection of vehicles. On the website, you can rent compact sedans and hatchbacks for city trips, luxury-class cars for comfortable vacation, spacious minivans for large groups.

What You Need to Rent a Car

To rent a car in Qatar, you'll need a minimum set of documents:

• Valid driver's license (category B)
• Passport
• Bank card for advance payment

You can pay the remainder by card or cash when picking up the vehicle. Confirm payment terms when booking.

Additionally, it's important to consider rental companies' requirements for driver age (minimum and maximum) and driving experience. These depend on the chosen vehicle and are always specified in its listing.

Road Conditions in Qatar: Key Insights

Driving in Qatar typically doesn't present major difficulties. Traffic moves on the right side, roads are wide with good surfaces, clear markings, and understandable signs. Information is usually presented in both Arabic and English.

Sandstorms present a potential hazard. They can sometimes approach roads quickly and reduce visibility to zero abruptly.

Essential traffic regulations:

• Speed limits: in cities – up to 60 km/h, outside cities on public roads – up to 100 km/h, on highways – up to 120 km/h
• Overtaking vehicles is permitted only on the left
• Mandatory use of seat belts for all passengers
• Transportation of children under 12 years only in the back seat in a car seat or special restraint device
• Phone calls while driving only with Handsfree system

Fuel Stations

Fuel stations in Qatar are located in cities and along main roads. They come in two formats:

• With staff – attendants fill the tank themselves. You don't even need to exit the vehicle.
• Self-service – you independently select the fuel type, fill the tank, and pay on-site.

At major stations, payment is typically made by bank card.

Parking

In Doha and other major Qatari cities, there are both free and paid parking areas.

Paid zones are typically found in the center. These can be street parking, multi-level, or underground car parks. Payment is usually made by card or cash at parking meters or through mobile apps.

Free parking can be found near tourist sites and shopping centers. Pay careful attention to signs and markings to avoid fines or vehicle towing.

How to Book a Car in Qatar

The process of booking a rental car in Qatar through Localrent takes minimal time. You need to complete several steps:

1. Specify pickup and drop-off dates. Then set filters to help select a suitable car: class and brand, deposit amount, transmission type, etc.
2. Review the vehicle listing. It indicates vehicle characteristics, rental and insurance terms, and payment methods. If necessary, select additional options, such as an additional driver.
3. Specify pickup/return location and time, add personal details and contact information for the primary driver.
4. Pay the advance by card. The amount will be only 15-20% of the total rental cost.
5. Receive booking confirmation. A voucher with order details will arrive by email immediately after advance payment. Save it on your phone or print it to present when picking up the vehicle.

When collecting the car at your chosen location, remember to inspect it carefully. It's best to photograph or video the condition of wheels, body, interior (especially areas with scratches and damage). Ensure all defects are noted in the transfer document – this will help avoid issues when returning the vehicle.

What to See with Your Rental Car

Traveling through Qatar by car opens numerous opportunities for exploring the country. Here are several popular places conveniently accessible by car:

1. Katara Cultural Village – a modern complex for experiencing the country's culture. The centerpiece is a Greek-style amphitheater. There are also several theaters and mosques, a planetarium, art galleries and craft shops, and a large park.
2. Al Thakhira Beach – an ideal place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxed recreation. Nearby are water-surrounded mangrove thickets. You can rent a kayak and take a water excursion.
3. Al Zubarah Fort – one of Qatar's most significant historical monuments, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk along ancient walls and visit a museum with historical artifacts. The surrounding area contains ruins of the ancient coastal town of Al Zubarah, where excavations continue.
4. Al Khor – a peaceful town on the Persian Gulf coast with beautiful beaches. You can also visit a two-story museum with exhibits of Qatari culture, stroll along the waterfront and park, and visit the local fish market.
5. Zekreet Peninsula – a location with unique mushroom-shaped rocks and unusual landscape, earning it the nickname "Qatari Mars." You can also observe wildlife and spend time at one of the beaches.

Where to Rent a Car in Qatar

When booking a car on the Localrent website, you can choose a convenient pickup location in Qatar. The most popular options are:

• Hamad International Airport
• Rental company offices
• City delivery to a convenient location

If it's important to pick up the car only at a specific location, select it in the "Specify location" filter – the system will show only suitable offers. Some companies provide vehicles only at their office.

Tips for Those Planning a Rental in Qatar

Using a rental car in Qatar is straightforward. However, there are several nuances that will make your trips more comfortable.

Pay attention to animals

Outside cities, camels are commonly encountered – they may walk along the road or cross it anywhere.

Consider the climate

Summers in Qatar are very hot, so it's important to choose a vehicle with powerful air conditioning. Due to extreme daytime heat, plan trips to attractions for early morning or evening.

Respect local traditions

When traveling to small towns and villages, remember cultural considerations. For example, playing loud music near mosques is not recommended. Don't photograph people without permission, avoid public displays of affection, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions