Hi Rose9!
The rules have recently changed and yes I have heard the same thing about GCC license holders, that they can take a direct test. I have years and years of driving experience, yet I need to enrol in a course to "relearn" how to drive! I haven't mentally accepted that! So far, I have been using the services of a driver combined with my husband's. Perhaps after this summer I can enrol in the driving school :cry:
Hi expat2b,
I can totally understand your situation.
Taking a license in Oman is crazy too but have heard Qatar is more difficult and strict.
All the very best for your lessons.?
Hi Queenie and Rose!
Barwa City accommodation is all apartments. They are quite nice, especially by Qatar standards! 3 Bed 3 full baths plus a storage room, fully furnished. Its a nice family type compound, with a grocery store, starbucks, papa john's, a salon, laundry, and a few restaurants. So for day to day needs you don't need to leave the compound. Unfortunately, there is no pool or gym :( However, lots of people conduct private boot camps and yoga classes. Depending on where you are from, getting a driving license can be a breeze or a nightmare. If you are not from one of the countries that have a license conversion agreement, you have to go through a long process of taking driving lessons, and then a test. It doesn't matter how long you have been a driver in your own country :(
I hope this answers some of your questions :)
Hi expat2b
How are you doing ..???
I am currently living in Oman, so i have an omani driving license.
Early the rule was that GCC residents can directly convert their license to Qatari driving license.
But i read it somewhere that this rule is changed now,
Have to give a driving test and then can convert.
Have you given a driving test or are you learning ???
Thanks:)
Hi Queenie!
I am a wife of a A330 FO and been here for a year. We live in Barwa City which is nice for family living. Life here is generally quite peaceful, minus the occasional crazy traffic situation. Since your kid is still a baby you don't have to worry about schools which is a nightmare. The weather has now started to get crazy hot, but come October it should start cooling down a bit. for the 6-7 months that the weather is nice, there are lots of fun outdoor events taking place to keep you entertained. Let me know if you have any specific questions you need answered. Happy to help :)
Hi expat2b
Good to hear from you.
Are you staying in company accommodation or you guys are on your own .. ??
How is the social life there? Are there any groups were you can meet people and make new friends ?
And how difficult it is to drive around and get a license??
Thanks in advance :)
Hi Queenie,
We are from India. My husband would be joining Qatar Airways B777 as a FO in July.
I hope to join him in a month or so, as soon as the visa process is done.
Heard lot of things about doha,i am quite nervous.
Lately the news is that we have to stay in the company accommodation for a certain period of time.
Stay in touch through this forum.
I will keep you posted ..
Hopefully we will meet in doha ?
