QR 200,000 Fine or Jail Time for Violators of New Safety Measures

Since the start of the pandemic, the government has been issuing decisions for the citizens and residents. These decisions support the goal of keeping everyone safe and healthy against the outbreak.

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As of May 22, 2020, a new set of safety measures became effective. Compliance with these measures is required, otherwise, the violators will face a hefty fine of QR200, 000 or jail time.

safety rules qatar

Mandatory for all Qatar Residents: New Precautionary Measures

In May 18, 2020, the Council of Ministers announced new safety measures aimed to contain the outbreak. Here are the decisions and measures:

  • All citizens and residents are obligated to install the EHTERAZ app on smartphones when leaving the house for any reason. This decision is effective from Friday 22/5/2020 until further notice.
  • All citizens and residents must not have more than two people in the vehicle. The decision is effective from Tuesday 19/5/2020 until further notice.

A maximum of three persons are allowed in taxis, limousines, or private vehicle not including the driver.

Ambulances and vehicles of the Ministry of Public Health, as well as the vehicles of security and military authorities, are exempted from this decision.

  • The number of people transported by buses will remain at half capacity in continuation of precautionary measures. This decision is effective from Tuesday 19/5/2020 until further notice.
  • The practice of sport shall be done in the area close to a person’s residence, taking into consideration that one must avoid gatherings during exercise and take the necessary precautions such as wearing masks and maintaining a safe distance. This decision is effective from Tuesday 19/5/2020 until further notice.
  • All commercial activities and the closing of shops will be in effect from 19/5/2020 to 30/5/2020, except food catering shops, pharmacies, and restaurants that provide delivery services. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry shall determine the other necessary activities exempted from this decision.

In the case of non-compliance with these decisions, the penalties stipulated in Decree-Law No. (17) of 1990 regarding the prevention of infectious diseases shall be applied to the violator by imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years and a fine not exceeding QR 200,00 or one of these two penalties.

Here are the posts from the Ministry:


More than the penalty, everyone will be doing their part of preventing the further spread of the pandemic by following these measures. As always, staying at home is a better alternative. But if one must really leave the house, make sure that these new measures are followed. Always remember to wear a face mask, and wash hands as often as possible.

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