Qatar to Use Radar to Monitor Motorists Using Phones and Neglecting Seatbelts; Rulebreakers Face QR500 Fines
Qatar will monitor motorists using mobile phones and neglecting seat belts while driving, according to the Ministry of Interior.
Radar technology and surveillance cameras will monitor roads to detect whether motorists are adhering to road rules in the country.
The new system will be introduced on September 3 and is designed to enhance the safety of road users. Fines of QR500 ($137) will be applied to motorists flouting the rules.
A Ministry statement said: “Using a mobile phone while driving distracts your attention and risks your safety and that of others.
“Radar systems monitor traffic violations on the road and capture the footage using advanced technology.
The surveillance technology will be operative 24 hours a day and seven days a week and will be able to automatically detect when seat belts are not worn and if drivers are using a mobile phone.
Using advanced technology, traffic monitoring radar systems are equipped to monitor violations of not wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile phone while driving.
— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) August 22, 2023
Please adhere to traffic rules and protect yourself and others on the road. #MOIQatar #TrafficQatar pic.twitter.com/2Y5jjUkhhX
The ministry said: “The General Directorate of Traffic will start automated monitoring for traffic violations of not wearing a seat belt and using a mobile phone while driving from September 3, 2023.
“Adherence to traffic rules and regulations keeps yourself and others safe”.
Beginning on Sunday, August 27 motorists will receive an automated alert warning them of the violation.
The following Sunday, September 3, the violations will be met with a fine.
Both categories of violation will be met with financial penalties:
- Not wearing a seatbelt while driving = QR500 ($137)
- Using a mobile phone while driving = QR500 ($137)
