The Ministry of Transport (MoT) in Qatar recently held a workshop focused on shaping the country’s new Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Strategy and Action Plan for 2027 to 2037. The event brought together representatives from various relevant entities and key stakeholders to review progress, discuss key outcomes, and outline upcoming phases and priorities for the strategy’s implementation.

The ITS Strategy and Action Plan aims to create a unified national framework designed to improve the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of Qatar’s transportation network. Central to this initiative is the enhancement of governance, better network management, optimized data utilization, encouragement of innovation, and the strengthening of institutional capacity across the sector.

Eng. Reem Mohamed Al Marafei, a civil engineer with the Ministry’s Road Affairs Department, highlighted that Qatar has invested heavily in establishing an advanced transportation infrastructure, which now underpins the country’s economic and social development. “As this infrastructure matures, the priority shifts to improving operational efficiency, asset sustainability, and integration among different entities,” she said. Leveraging technology and data to enhance decision-making and deliver superior services to users is a key focus moving forward.

According to Eng. Al Marafei, the strategy is not aimed merely at adopting modern technologies but emphasizes establishing an integrated governance framework to promote coordination across agencies, increase the effectiveness of decision-making, and ensure efficient implementation and monitoring. The plan aligns with the broader objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030, supporting the country’s long-term national goals and maximizing returns on future transportation investments.

She noted that the successful rollout of the ITS strategy relies heavily on inter-stakeholder partnerships and a shared commitment to building systems that foster economic growth, improve quality of life, and enhance Qatar’s regional and global standing. Eng. Al Marafei stressed that developing the transportation ecosystem is a collective responsibility, requiring coordinated efforts and aligned roles among all stakeholders involved.

The workshop underscored the Ministry’s approach of inclusive engagement to ensure that the ITS Strategy and Action Plan reflects diverse inputs and paves the way for a more connected, efficient, and sustainable transport future in Qatar.