Qatar
Doha
UMR Index Rank
#45
(=)
Score: 46%
Sustainable Mobility
#63
(+1)
Score: 31.6%
Public Transit
#40
(+7)
Score: 47.3%
Technology Adoption
#38
Score: 38.3%
| Population | 1.4 million |
| Surface area (km2) | 575 |
| Population-density (people/km2) | 2,457 |
| GDP per capita ($) | 89,393 |
UMR Index Rank
#45
(=)
Score: 46%
Sustainable Mobility
#63
(+1)
Score: 31.6%
Public Transit
#40
(+7)
Score: 47.3%
Technology Adoption
#38
Score: 38.3%
What Doha Does Well In Urban Mobility
The Qatari capital provides a good example of how hosting a major global event can drive investment in urban mobility. In preparation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, local authorities constructed a new metro system with automated lines and improved bus and light rail infrastructure. The goal was to enable residents and tourists to travel easily around the city. The infrastructure remains in use today and is relatively affordable. Doha also provides some free bus and van services to major metro stations for residents.
Doha has a well-connected network of roads that allows for smooth traffic flow. Qatar is expanding the Al Wakra Main Road, a main artery connecting the capital to the coastal city of Al Wakra to the south, to increase the road capacity by 50%. The project, originally scheduled for completion by the end of 2023, intersects with two metro stations and includes over 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) of cycling and pedestrian paths. As of October 2024, the project was still in progress, but is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
Urban Mobility Readiness Index, Sustainable Mobility, Public Transit, and Technology Adoption scores
Source: Oliver Wyman Forum and University of California, Berkeley
Challenges And Opportunities For Doha’s Transportation System
Like many cities in the Middle East, Doha faces challenges in promoting active mobility modes, especially cycling, as residents largely opt for cars. While the hot climate is a factor, poor cycling infrastructure also impedes progress. Authorities are taking steps to encourage cycling. In 2020, Doha inaugurated the Olympic Cycling Track, which is the world’s longest continuous cycling path at 33 kilometers (21 miles). Additionally, the Ministry of Transport announced that starting in 2024 all new road projects will include dedicated pedestrian and cycling lanes.
Only a small share of personal cars in Doha are electric vehicles (EVs). Unlike regional peers such as Dubai, the government has not invested heavily to incentivize EV purchases or develop charging stations. However, Doha authorities are promoting the electrification of the public bus network and the development of associated charging infrastructure, with the aim of having a fully electric fleet by 2030. A significant milestone was reached in 2024 when approximately 70% of the bus fleet was converted to EVs.
Dimensions of the Urban Mobility Readiness Index score
Source: Oliver Wyman Forum and University of California, Berkeley
How Doha Can Improve Its Urban Mobility Performance
Doha can increase its EV market share in sales by offering more financial incentives, such as purchase subsidies or tax exemptions. It can introduce non-monetary incentives such as EV-dedicated lanes and low- or zero-emission zones that restrict internal combustion engine vehicles in certain areas. It also can invest more in charging infrastructure. Providing direct government incentives to companies and private individuals for installing chargers can expand the charging network.
Despite being affordable and modern, Doha’s public transit system is underutilized. To increase its attractiveness, the city can expand the existing infrastructure, including adding more stops and improving connections between different modes of transportation. Current plans include extending metro lines and introducing new lines. However, a shift in mindset and behavior is necessary for many residents to opt for public transit over private cars. Doha can consider introducing financial incentives for public transit use or barriers to private car use.
Urban Mobility Readiness Index relative ranking evolution (2020-2024)
Source: Oliver Wyman Forum and University of California, Berkeley