Before registering a car it is mandatory to have it insured for a period of 12 months. Rates may be higher for the high performance cars.

A 3% to 4% value of the car, on a new car, for the first year, based on some sort of depreciation schedule is usual. So when the annual renewal comes up you may find that it is higher than 3% with persistence you may be able to negotiate it down to your starting rate. In Qatar you will not receive any reminders of the date of renewal, but you have a 30 day grace period from the time it lapses.

Fully comprehensive in Qatar is not the same as fully comprehensive in most western countries. Car Insurance in Qatar, insures the car, not the driver. When you take out full insurance, you will normally be offered the choice of insuring the driver and ex-number of passengers. The additional charge for passengers are Qr.50/- per head, but does not cover family members. For cars over a certain age, 3rd party is the only option. Cover for passengers is not automatic so you have to check these things carefully with your Insurance Broker.

Some companies will insure driving on rough terrain but if you want to go driving in the dunes you must check with your insurance company. For coverage extending to all GCC countries (except Saudi Arabia and Oman which offer it at their border), an orange card can be obtained.