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Step 1. Where to look for used cars
Qatar’s used car market is thriving. With nearly 88% of the population made up of expats, vehicles change hands frequently, especially when people relocate. This means you can usually find almost-new cars available at prices well below their original value. For instance, the price of a brand-new Toyota Land Cruiser in Qatar is QAR 288,700, while a used one can be purchased for under QAR 100,000.
Desert climate can be harsh on vehicles — air conditioning systems, tires, and paintwork may deteriorate over time. And if you’re considering an SUV, it’s good to be extra cautious: many are used for off-roading or dune-bashing, which may eventually lead to hidden wear and tear.
However, Qatar's strict roadworthiness standards—including mandatory annual inspections by Fahes—mean most vehicles are kept in good shape.
These are the primary locations to find second-hand cars in Qatar:
- QIC Market. A platform featuring a variety of second-hand cars available in Qatar.
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Qatar Living. It features a dedicated classifieds section for used cars, along with filters to help you narrow your search.
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Qatar Sale. A trusted online marketplace that lists a wide variety of vehicles, from budget-friendly models to high-end options.
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Authorized car dealerships. Major dealers like Al-Fardan and Saleh Al Hamad offer certified pre-owned vehicles with warranties and full service history.
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Facebook and WhatsApp groups. Community groups often feature car listings, especially when expats are relocating and looking to sell quickly. A few examples are: Expat leaving Qatar cars for Sale, Qatar car, vehicle, buy & sale group, Qatar Expat Leaving Sale and The Pearl Community.
Step 2: Documents and information from seller
Communication is a vital part of the procedure. It is recommended to ask the right questions early in the process:
— Is the seller the first owner of the vehicle?
— What are the age and mileage of the vehicle?
— Has it ever been in an accident?
— Were any repairs done?
— Are there any current issues one should be aware of?
Avoid sellers who provide vague answers and appear uncooperative. And remember, there are some documents the seller is required to provide you:
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Valid Istimara card.
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Service history that includes receipts of car maintenance.
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Proof that the car is accident-free. The buyer can request an accident report from the seller.
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A No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required if the car is financed. Confirmation that the vehicle is not under any loan. Ownership cannot be transferred until the loan is fully paid off. The buyer should agree to repay the loan installments as per the original arrangement between the leasing company and the first owner.
Step 3: Vehicle inspection
Before buying a used car, it's a good idea to request a complete vehicle inspection- commonly called a “computer test”. It can be done at Woqod Technical Inspection Centers or trusted private garages. The test checks the vehicle’s condition and can reveal any hidden issues. The buyer pays for the computer test, and costs vary between QAR 100 and QAR 300. Some dealerships offer pre-owned cars that have undergone a thorough inspection.
Negotiating is common in Qatar. Use your research and inspection findings to support your offer. It is also essential to make sure that any outstanding fines, such as traffic violations, are settled by the seller before proceeding with the transfer. Once both parties agree on a price, payment can be made via bank transfer or cash.
Step 4: Transferring the ownership
Car ownership transfer can be completed quickly via the Metrash app or by visiting the Traffic Department.
How to transfer the car ownership via the Metrash app:
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Click the “Traffic” icon on the homepage and select "Vehicles"
2. Select “Vehicle Ownership Transfer”.
3. Enter details and pay the transfer fee.
4. Istimara and insurance are automatically transferred to the buyer's name.
Alternatively, you can visit the Traffic Police Office to transfer the car ownership, print the Istimara in your name, and transfer the insurance.
Documents required to transfer the car ownership:
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Qatar ID
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Driving license
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Istimara card
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Insurance certificate
Step 5: Insurance transfer
If the vehicle is under a comprehensive insurance policy, the insurance must be transferred to your name before the ownership can be transferred via Metrash. Once that’s done, you can proceed with updating or renewing the insurance. You may choose to keep the existing policy or purchase a new one. For newer or high-value vehicles, comprehensive coverage is usually the best option. Insurance can be arranged through local providers—either online or in person—with most offering flexible payment plans.
Costs and ownership fees
Cars in Qatar are relatively affordable, but ownership still comes with recurring costs.
Registration — Costs vary based on the car's age, engine size, and type, but the average annual cost for a private vehicle is QAR 150-200.
Transfer fees — Typically around QAR 200, depending on the car model. They are often covered by the seller.
Service and maintenance — Especially important for older cars or cars out of warranty. Routine maintenance costs around QAR 1,000-2,000 per year.
Unplanned costs — New tires or minor repairs. The average cost for a standard SUV's tires would be around QAR 400-450 each.
Insurance — Costs vary depending on the coverage type you choose, the value and age of the car, and any additional benefits included in the plan. The average annual insurance premium for a used SUV with a recorded change of ownership is approximately QAR 3,169 for Comprehensive coverage and QAR 742 for Third Party Liability (TPL). For new cars that are at least one year old, the average premiums are around QAR 3,661 for Comprehensive insurance and QAR 640 for TPL.
