Doha Hamad Airport (XOZ) Taxi Service

The acute shortage of taxis in Doha has led to a thriving market for unlicensed, or unofficial, taxi services, most with a steady clientele. For visitors, the best way to find a reliable driver is to ask around – many residents, particularly expats, hire such drivers regularly and will happily share contact information.

Not a "pirate taxi" per se, but sometimes a local driver will stop and offer to give you a ride if he or she sees you looking lost on the side of the road. If a driver slows down and flashes their headlights, they are signalling they're willing to give you a lift; beckon them over with a wave, if you wish. It is customary to offer some money at the end, though they will usually refuse to take it. Accepting a ride has its risks, however, and and is not an advisable practice for solo women.

Reports of tampered meters are on the rise (look for black tape or paper), as well as reports of drivers locking the doors or refusing to open the trunk without extra payment. Technically if the driver refuses to use the meter, the ride should be free. If you have problems, you can call the police at 999, at which point the driver will suddenly be very cooperative.