Bus

Bus transport

Discovering Qatar by bus is not only possible but also very practical. With an ever-improving public transport network, bus travel in this country offers a reliable and economical alternative for residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re travelling through the vast expanse of Doha, with its futuristic skyscrapers and traditional souks, or exploring the various attractions in the surrounding area, Qatar’s air-conditioned buses offer comfort and convenience. By choosing the bus, travelers can also enjoy a unique view of Qatar’s urban and desert landscape, while avoiding the hassle of driving and parking.

The bus network connects Hamad International Airport to many parts of the city, providing a convenient transportation solution. Payments for bus journeys are made exclusively via the Karwa smart card, which can be obtained at the AIH assistance desks, located near the baggage reclaim area at carrousels 5 and 6.

Karwa Bus, a government-run public transport system in Qatar, offers air-conditioned buses connecting Doha to key locations throughout the country. Managed by Mowasalat, Qatar’s leading transport services provider, the network comprises over 50 routes. Buses start their daily operations at 4 a.m., with the last departures around 11 p.m., mainly from the Doha Bus Station located near the Gold Souq, according to Mowasalat information.

What’s more, most buses are equipped with wheelchair spaces, ensuring accessibility. Mowasalat recommends that passengers use the “KARWA Smart Card”, a convenient cashless and ticketless means of payment.

How much does a bus ticket cost?

Bus fares range from QR 2.50 (0.60 cents) for short journeys to QR 9 (2.25 euros) for long journeys, such as those to Al Shamal and Abu Samra, on the Saudi border, per single trip.

Important things to know before taking the Karwa bus

Before taking the Karwa Bus, it is important to know the following:

  1. Purchasing the Karwa Smart Card: You must purchase the Karwa Smart Card, as this is how you will pay your bus fare. The card must be scanned when getting on and off the bus.
  2. To check bus routes and timetables, we recommend you download the Karwa Bus application.
    • Map of bus routes in Greater Doha: You can consult the map of bus routes in Greater Doha to plan your journey
      HERE
    • Bus timetables: Bus timetables are available
      HERE
       to help you organize your trip according to departure and arrival times.
  3. Download the Karwa Bus application: The Karwa Bus application is available on Google Play and Apple Store. This application is a practical tool for accessing information on routes and timetables, and for managing your Karwa Smart Card.

Karwa Smart Card

There are three types of Karwa Smart Cards offered by Mowasalat, each tailored to different travel needs:

  1. Classic Card: This is a long-term rechargeable card, sold at QR 30 (7.50 euros). It’s ideal for residents or people who plan to use public transport frequently.
  2. Limited Card: This card is valid for two journeys within 24 hours of purchase and costs QR 10 (€2.50). It’s ideal for occasional travelers or those planning just a few trips in a day.
  3. Unlimited Card: Offering unlimited travel, but only within 24 hours of purchase, this card is sold at QR 20 (5 euros). It’s perfect for tourists or people who plan to travel extensively by bus over the course of a day.

Where to buy and recharge?

The Karwa Smart Card can be purchased and recharged at several locations:

  1. Bus stations: You can obtain and recharge your card at Doha Bus Station, Karwa bus stations, and other specific locations.
  2. Automatic Ticket Vending Machines (TVM): These machines are available at Hamad International Airport, Doha Bus Station, Karwa bus stations, and The Pearl-Qatar.
  3. Selected merchants: Some merchants also offer card purchase and reload.
  4. Ooredoo Self-Service Machines: Look for Ooredoo machines bearing the Karwa Smartcard logo for purchase and top-up.
  5. Online via Ooredoo Money: According to Ooredoo, you can use the Ooredoo Money application or the USSD menu (*140#) to add between QR 5 (1.25 euros) and QR 500 (125.4 euros) to your Karwa Smart Card. Simply enter the first 10 digits of your card number to recharge it.

To see the full list of locations where you can buy and recharge the Karwa Smart Card, click here.

OR THEN

Have you heard of Doha’s HopOn HopOff?

Doha’s HopOn HopOff is a flexible sightseeing bus service designed to offer visitors a convenient and informative way to explore Qatar’s capital. This service allows passengers to hop on and off at will at various stops strategically located near the city’s main attractions and sites of interest.

For more information on this super-practical means of travel for tourists, click here.