Guide on Using Dashcams in Qatar

Nowadays, dashcams are useful equipment to have in one’s car. These help record scenes or events the vehicle passes by. The footage that dashcams capture can be useful in case of accidents.

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The question on everyone’s mind is, are dashcams allowed to be installed in vehicles in Qatar? The short answer is yes, but it requires pre-approval from the Ministry of Interior Security Services Department (MOI SSD).

Dashcam Use in Qatar

Dashcams are video cameras placed in the windshield or dashboard of any vehicle. Some devices only record activities occurring outside the vehicle. There are also some models that have double lenses, allowing the user to also record what is happening inside.

Most public transport vehicles use dashcams, as these come in handy in case of accidents or any untoward incidents. Private vehicle owners also find dashcams a necessity since the footage can be helpful to protect themselves and others.

Drivers in Qatar will also find it necessary to have a dashcam in their vehicles, whether for public or private use. But are private individuals allowed to install dashcams? Fortunately, the interior ministry allows such practice. But owners would need pre-approval from MOI SSD.

Pre-Approval Checklist

Before installing a dashcam in your car, you need prior approval from the Security Systems Department of the Ministry of Interior. I Love Qatar shares the criteria you should meet to get approved:

Applicant must be a citizen or resident of Qatar
The dashcam should be installed in a prominent place in the vehicle interior; hidden dashcams should not be placed for illegal reasons
The screen of the dashcam should be minimal in size to prevent the driver from being distracted
The dashcam should not reduce the driver’s vision of the road

Keep in mind that vehicle owners cannot buy a unit unless approved by the interior ministry.

Dashcam Usage Pre-Approval Process

Now that you have met the criteria, the next step would be to write to the ministry to ask for approval. Follow this process:

Draft a letter stating your intention to install a dashcam in your vehicle. You should also provide your car’s model and plate number
In your letter, attach a copy of your QID, information about the dash cam that you want to install
Submit your letter to the Ministry of Interior Security Services Department in Abu Hamour. You will be advised when you can come back
The Ministry will review your application. They may either accept or reject your application

If your application is approved, you can now purchase the dashcam

Getting to MOI SSD

Location: Wholesale Market Street, Doha
Telephone +974 2343999
Timing: Sunday to Thursday 8 am to 12 pm

There are several stores in Qatar that sell dashcams. These equipment come in various models and capacities. And for as low as QAR 188, you can purchase a dual recording dashcam.

Benefits and Limitations of Dashcam

Dashcams are useful in providing footage of an accident. It provides first-hand evidence that can help in settling who is at fault. When applicable, it can also help in claiming insurance easily.

Additionally, the footage in your dashcam can also help other drivers who got caught in an accident. Even if you are not directly involved, you may have some information such as the plate number or location, which may be useful to other parties.

On the other hand, a reliable and sturdy dashcam can be expensive. It will also depend on the brand and model. For instance, some models with night vision and high resolution can go for over QAR 1,000.

So remember that it is legal to use dashcams in Qatar. Just make sure that you get approval from the ministry. It’s worth it because they can really help if something bad happens while you are driving.