Qatar's Revamped Bicycle Plan Promotes 3,800km Cycling Network

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) has introduced the revamped Qatar Bicycle Master Plan (QBMP), which lays out a thorough framework that aims to boost cycling and micromobility throughout the nation. This initiative focuses on elevating safety standards, enhancing infrastructure, and creating a sustainable integrated transport system that accommodates the mobility demands of today and the future.

This enhanced plan addresses the rapid urbanization and population expansion in Qatar, aligning with global trends in transportation. Its goal is to offer efficient and eco-friendly commuting choices while uplifting the overall living standards.

The latest QBMP has been crafted through extensive collaboration involving governmental bodies, private sector stakeholders, academic institutions, and research organizations. Experts conducted an assessment of over 1,500 kilometers of current bicycle routes, including 937 kilometers of designated cycling paths and 561 kilometers linked to pedestrian walkways.

The formulation of this plan incorporated over 5,000 interviews across Qatar, aiming to evaluate the prevalence of micromobility solutions and determining methods to promote broader usage. Additionally, more than 120 technical discussions were convened with stakeholders, while over 60 domestic and international reference materials were reviewed.

The findings revealed that approximately 19 percent of the population possesses a bicycle or micromobility device, yet these forms of transport comprise less than 1 percent of daily trips, showcasing significant opportunities for increased engagement.

To foster greater bicycle utilization for commuting, leisure, and sports activities, the updated master plan is centered on creating safe infrastructure and establishing regulations for emerging micromobility modes.

A standout aspect of this initiative is the incorporation of over 3,800 kilometers of new cycling paths across the nation. Also planned are 110 kilometers of grade-separated crossings to bolster safety and the development of seven major amenity hubs supporting bicycles and e-scooter users.

The revised QBMP introduces 17 new policies, 18 implementation strategies, and 348 supportive measures. It includes the Qatar Bike Infrastructure Planning and Design Guide (QBIG), which delineates standards for planning and constructing safe and efficient cycling and micromobility networks. A comprehensive GIS geodatabase will also be established to catalog existing infrastructure and future projects.

Eng. Abdullah Seif Al Sulaiti, Assistant Undersecretary for Land Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Transport, stated that the QBMP is a testament to the ministry’s dedication to constructing a cohesive, safe, and sustainable transportation framework that enhances access to vital destinations while advocating for environmentally respectful travel methods.

He highlighted that the master plan is in line with the Ministry of Transport Strategy, Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030), and the objectives outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030. The initiative is anticipated to contribute to lower carbon emissions, better public health and living standards, support for sustainable economic advancement, and improvements in transport network efficiency.

The ministry will engage closely with partners to advance the plan across various phases: short, medium, and long-term. The execution strategy will include established project priorities and performance metrics to track progress ensuring the strategic and sustainable realization of the plan.

Officials stress that robust cooperation among government agencies, the private sector, educational institutions, and other participants will be pivotal in accomplishing the objectives of the plan and reinforcing Qatar’s status as a frontrunner in sustainable transit and active mobility.