For those who don’t have their vehicle, you can still get around using the public transportation available in Qatar.
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You could either take the bus, taxi, or the train. The bus and taxi have been around for a long time. If you want to save on transportation expenses, you’re better off taking a bus.

Video: Taking the Qatar Bus
In this video, our kababayan shows his experience in taking the Karwa bus. Here are the takeaways:
- There is a vending machine in the bus station so you can top up your smart card;
- You don’t have to fall in line to top up your card;
- There is a rule that states you cannot ride the Karwa bus without your card;
- When you ride the bus, know the number and route. Doing so will prevent you from getting lost. For instance, you need to ride Bus No. 76 to get to City Center;
- There is a designated bus stop for passengers. You cannot just get off anywhere you like;
- Taking the bus can save you money because of the low fares.
Watch the full video here:
Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on the personal experiences that the OFW shared on the video. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the OFW by commenting on their video on their accounts.
What is the Karwa Smart Card?
The Karwa bus is the ubiquitous aquamarine-colored bus you see in the city. These buses can be identified by their body number, and it follows a particular route.
You need to have a Karwa Smart Card to take the bus. You can buy the smart card at the vending machine found in Hamad International Airport, Doha Bus Station, the Pearl Qatar, and Qatar Mall.
There are three types of Karwa smart cards: classic, limited, and unlimited. The Classic card costs QR 30 and can be used for a long time. The Limited card costs QR 10 and can be used for two journeys within 24 hours. Finally, the Unlimited card is also valid for 24 hours and can be used on as many trips as you can take. It costs QR 20.
You can top up the classic card in multiples of QR 10 at the vending machines such in malls or the bus station.
Getting Around the City on a Bus
The trip starts at the Al Ghanim Bus station. The buses will go to their routes to pick up passengers at the designated stops.
On this map, we can see where the bus goes. The routes are color-coded so you can quickly identify each destination. As you look at the map, take note of where the black dot is because it denotes the bus stop.

Meanwhile, you can refer to the Mowasalat website to find out the schedule of the route you want to take. For instance, Bus # 76 leaves the Al Ghanim bus station at 4:10 AM. It is expected to reach the next stop by 4:13 AM.

You can also upload the Karwa Bus app to know the updates regarding the bus company’s operations. The QR code for the app is also on the website.
On the other hand, some expats still prefer to take a taxi because they can get to their destinations faster. But if your schedule permits it, you can take the bus if you want to save on transportation expenses.
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