A new integrated, automated ticketing system is introduced to Qatar

The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) in Qatar has unveiled its Integrated Automated Fare Collection and Ticketing System for public transportation after signing the project contract with Gulf Business Machines Qatar (GBM) in partnership with MSI Global of Singapore.

The new system – scheduled to be completed and operating in 2020 – provides a unified ticketing mechanism for public transport within Qatar’s internal transportation network, including offering credit card payment technologies and payment via smartphones and watches.

Increasing use of public transport will help reduce emissions resulting from a high use of private vehicles, and lower traffic-related problems by easing pressure on road networks.

The contract was signed by MOTC’s Assistant Undersecretary of Land Transport Affairs, Rashid Taleb Al Nabet, and GBM Qatar Board Chairman, Badr Omar Al Mana.

HE Minister of Transport and Communications, Jassim Saif Ahmed Al-Sulaiti, said that the project comes within the Ministry’s efforts to further improve the performance and integration of the country’s transportation system to achieve the economic objectives associated with transportation efficiency and effectiveness.

The project, he added, aims for the optimal use of computer technologies, advanced communications systems and smart e-payment systems that mirror latest developments in the mobility and transportation industry. 

The structure of the new project has multiple components for a unified fare collection and ticketing system, including ticketing, ticket vending machines and standalone validators.

Rashid Taleb Al Nabet said that the public would use the new system very easily on all needs related to public transportation such as the metro, the Lusail Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, buses, taxis and marine transport.

He added that improving mobility and comfort for people, increasing traffic safety, reducing energy consumption, limiting impact on the environment and increasing productivity are some of the new system’s top features.

The project aims to achieve a paradigm shift in terms of public transit performance by founding an integrated, multimodal clearinghouse system in line with best world standards in addition to raising the efficiency of the land transport network in general.