Tipped to be one of the Middle East's leading holiday hubs, the capital of Qatar is also a thriving business epicentre that hosts countless corporate events and expos throughout the year. Whether one is heading to the dynamic desert capital on business or for a vacation, knowing how to navigate the local transport networks will undoubtedly come in handy. Here's a look at some of the most convenient ways to get around Doha for tourists and business travellers.

Ranked among the most efficient and affordable means of travel accessible in Doha, bus services connect visitors to nearly every corner of the city. Managed and owned by the city state's Mowasalat Karwa, buses in the desert capital are not only ubiquitous but travel to every nook and cranny of the metropolis in a wide-reaching network. Operating from 5 am to midnight, all buses in Doha are air-conditioned and visitors can find the full bus schedule, routes and bus number information on the Mowasalat Karwa official website. There are fewer buses available for commuters on weekends, which are Friday and Saturday in Doha unlike the rest of the world, but that doesn't mean one can't get around via bus these days. Travellers should also be aware that seats at the front of each bus are dedicated to female passengers and children.

It's crucial to purchase a Karwa Smartcard upon arriving in Doha as these are the bus passes that one must have on hand to pay for rides around the city. Tourists visiting can purchase bus passes from vending machines that accept cash only. These passes offer various options tailored to different travel needs. For instance, there's a pass allowing two rides within 24 hours or a Classic Card, which is reloadable and reusable. For travellers seeking unlimited rides within a 24-hour period, the Unlimited Card is available, making it perfect for sightseeing and shopping sprees.

Those based at Banana Island Resort Doha and other similar luxury hotels in Doha will find that taxis are a great way to get around when travelling as a group. Visitors can easily book Kaewa taxis and those operated by Careem and Uber by downloading the apps upon landing in the city. It is possible to hail taxis from the roadside as most taxis are metered, regardless of the taxi operator. Operational from 5 am onwards, taxi rides can be costly after 9 pm when extra tariffs are added. Waiting costs are also factored in when using a single taxi for sightseeing trips or shopping tours so it's not always the most affordable means of transport for those on a budget.

As one of the newer additions to the local transport networks in Doha, the Dubai Metro is still a work in progress despite its opening in time for the FIFA World Cup in 2022. The Red Line is fully operational and offers speedy transfers between Al Wakhra and Al Qasser on weekdays. Operating from 8 am to 11 pm, metro trains are available every few minutes with the carriages divided into 3 classes according to onboard facilities.

While it may be one of the more expensive transportation options in Doha, renting a chauffeured vehicle can provide great comfort for those willing to splurge. With hourly rates, travellers can hire various vehicles ranging from a 4x4 jeep to a stretch limo, catering to different preferences and needs.

Walking in Doha is only safe after sundown due to the high temperatures prevalent in Qatar for most of the year. But it remains one of the best ways to explore the Souq Waqif, the Corniche and the CBD as these areas have been built to accommodate pedestrians.