How to Explore Doha the Easy Way: Metro, Buses, and Breezy Strolls
Qatar is a place known by travellers who frequently fly, as one of the most common layover points before their final destination. Qatar itself is a great place to explore, shop and sight-see while you wait for your next plane to depart. Doha, which is the capital city of Qatar, is no exception. With sleek skyscrapers, rich souks and everything in between, the city is the perfect place to visit either as part of your layover or as a vacation spot. Unlike many cities where owning a vehicle is essential for exploring, Doha is conveniently navigable without one. Thanks to an efficient public transport network and walkable urban zones, navigating Doha has never been easier for curious travellers. Whether you’re here for a weekend layover or a longer escape, this guide will show you how to explore the city comfortably and affordably using public transport and your own two feet.
Why shouldn’t you have a car in Doha?
There are many advantages to not travelling by car in Doha. For one, it’s a cost-effective way to get around. Qatar’s extensive investments in public infrastructure have resulted in an accessible, clean, and punctual transport system. Secondly, ditching the car lets you experience the city from a more immersive perspective. Imagine unhurried strolls along the Corniche or spontaneous cafe stops in Msheireb.
Doha Metro: An Ingenious Way to Travel
Doha Metro is a fast, affordable, and air-conditioned way to get around the city. Opened in 2019, the sleek system has three lines: Red, Green, and Gold, covering major attractions, neighbourhoods, and transport hubs. Trains run every 5 minutes during peak hours, and stations are clean, modern, and easy to navigate. The Metro’s smart cards are available at stations or vending machines for most tourists.
Randwick, Doha Metro Red Line, CC0 1.0
Karwa Buses: The Next Best Thing
Karwa buses complement the Metro with an extensive network of routes reaching residential areas, malls, and tourist destinations. Bus rides are quite cost-effective and support the same Karwa smartcards that work on metros. Buses are air-conditioned, safe, and clearly marked in both English and Arabic. The downside? They can be a bit slower due to traffic, but they offer an economical way to explore beyond the Metro lines.
Trams: A Bus on Rails
Doha boasts of having two separate tram networks up and running.
Lusail Tram: This tram serves the futuristic Lusail City area and connects to the Metro. It is great for visitors headed to Lusail Stadium or exploring the city’s northern coastal developments.
Msheireb Tram: This is a circular route linking the four quarters of Msheireb Downtown Doha, one of the city’s most walkable and sustainable neighbourhoods. The trams are quite modern in design and add to the list of ways of travelling car-free in Doha.
Wandering Around Doha on Foot
Though Doha seems to be heavily centred around transportation provided by some form of vehicle, it is surprisingly pleasant to wander around on foot. Make sure you check the following places on your walk.
Corniche Promenade: A 7-km stretch hugging the coastline, ideal for early morning or sunset walks. This area is also in proximity to a number of Doha hotels as well.
Souq Waqif: The historic heart of Doha, this bustling bazaar is best explored on foot.
The Pearl-Qatar: A man-made island with Mediterranean-style marinas and promenades lined with cafes and designer stores.
Taxis, Ride-Hailing & Water Taxis
While the focus of this guide is on public transport and walking, it’s worth noting that taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem are widely available and relatively affordable in Doha. For visitors staying at Banana Island Resort Doha, water taxis or private resort-operated boats will likely be part of your itinerary. These scenic transfers add a luxurious twist to your transport experience and offer stunning views of the Doha skyline.
