Doha: In-Charge of Road Affairs Department at the Ministry of Transport (MOT), Eng. Nayla Khaled Al Nuaimi, highlighted Qatar's innovative strides toward integrating smart transportation technologies as part of its sustainable future objective through 2050. She emphasized that the initial phase of operating self-driving electric taxis is a testament to Qatar's dedication to adopting cutting-edge transport technologies, which aim to deliver safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable services.
According to Qatar News Agency, the success of the initial experiment with self-driving electric taxis indicates the readiness of Qatar's operational and technical systems for broader application. This success paves the way for the second phase, targeting the complete deployment of autonomous vehicles in collaboration with relevant national authorities. The project's first phase, initiated in August 2025, involved over 2,500 trial trips and boasted a success rate exceeding 94 percent, all without human intervention, while recording high user satisfaction, despite the presence of a safety officer during the trials.
These initiatives are part of the MOT's strategic efforts to align with the latest developments in smart transportation. The MOT aims to provide an integrated, environmentally friendly transport system adhering to the highest international and regional standards. This involves leveraging modern technologies, such as advanced traffic management systems for data analysis and proposing road safety solutions, deploying surveillance networks equipped with cameras and sensors, integrating services like Doha Metro, buses, taxis, and limousine via digital platforms, and developing real-time passenger information systems.
Eng. Nayla further explained that the MOT is actively expanding its use of electric and autonomous vehicles within the public transport framework. Concurrently, efforts are being made to enhance the digital infrastructure for vehicle-road connectivity, develop legislation for land transport regulation, and employ data analytics and AI in road planning and maintenance.
In this context, the MOT has unveiled a comprehensive public transport plan aimed at boosting network operation efficiency, alleviating traffic congestion, enhancing transportation connectivity, supporting urban growth, and fostering public transport utilization. This long-term vision seeks to establish a more cohesive and sustainable transport network, ensuring safe and accessible mobility options for all users.
Additionally, the MOT has introduced a comprehensive bicycle plan to encourage active mobility and integrate bicycles and micro-mobility into the urban transport infrastructure to improve life quality and reduce emissions, aligning with objectives for environmental sustainability.
On the international stage, Eng. Nayla stated that Qatar is committed to staying abreast of the latest innovations by participating in specialized conferences and workshops. This involvement focuses on learning about AI applications, smart traffic management, autonomous vehicles, and integrated transport, while fostering collaboration with international institutions.
She underscored that successful smart mobility implementation depends not only on technology but also on legislative development, cybersecurity enhancement, data quality improvement, and public transport promotion. These efforts are designed to achieve a more efficient and sustainable transportation system, bolstering Qatar's standing as a regional innovation hub in transportation. Future projections suggest increased reliance on autonomous vehicles, expansion of on-demand services, and broader use of AI-based traffic systems. Consequently, Qatar is enhancing its digital infrastructure to support these trends, backed by continuous investments in technology and transportation, to deliver more reliable and sustainable services.