Every year on December 18, Qatar comes alive in a powerful display of national pride. From official parades to family gatherings and fireworks displays, the atmosphere across the country is festive and filled with patriotic energy. However, alongside this celebration comes a surge in road traffic and, more concerningly, unsafe and unlawful vehicle behaviour that threatens public safety. Authorities have responded with stricter enforcement and clear guidelines to keep the celebrations safe for everyone.

The Reality on the Roads

In recent National Day celebrations, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) reported hundreds of traffic violations and misconduct incidents. During the 2024 festivities, security forces arrested 155 people — including 90 minors — for behaviours that included spraying foam on other cars and passers-by, opening vehicle doors while in motion, and climbing onto roofs or out of windows. Authorities also seized about 600 vehicles for illegal modifications or unsafe conduct.

These actions reflect a pattern: excited crowds and large gatherings, especially near areas like the Corniche and popular celebration hubs, create a complex environment for both drivers and pedestrians. Without responsible behaviour, fun quickly turns into danger — whether it’s blocked roads, near-miss collisions, or people put at risk by reckless conduct.

 

Official Rules for Vehicle Conduct and Decoration

To ensure road safety and maintain traffic flow during the National Day celebration period (often enforced from mid-December through the 21st), the MoI and traffic departments have set specific rules that residents must follow:

✔ 1. Decorations Must Be Safe and Limited

Vehicles can be decorated to show national pride, but decorations must not obstruct driver visibility, cover windshields, or hide license plates. Changing the original vehicle colour or applying object coverings that block sightlines is prohibited.

✔ 2. No Hanging Out of Moving Vehicles

Passengers are strictly prohibited from leaning out of windows or sunroofs, sitting on roofs, or placing any part of their body outside a moving vehicle. Such behaviour is not only illegal but dramatically increases the risk of severe injury.

✔ 3. Traffic Laws Still Apply

Speed limits, seatbelt use, and all standard traffic laws remain in force. Celebratory driving behaviour such as drifting, blocking roads, or manoeuvring dangerously is subject to fines, towing, arrest, and referral to public prosecution.

✔ 4. Decoration Period and Enforcement

Decoration and celebratory vehicle use are only permitted during a defined period — usually shortly before and after National Day itself. Outside this timeframe, even patriotic decorations can lead to penalties. Authorities deploy traffic patrols across key areas and respond quickly to violations reported by the public.

 

Rules Matter

Celebrations are a time of joy and unity, but public roads are not designed for unsafe stunts or reckless behaviour. When vehicles block lanes, drivers perform risky actions, or passengers put themselves in harm’s way, the consequences can be serious — not just for the individuals involved, but for the entire community.

The MoI’s approach reflects this balance: honour Qatar’s National Day traditions, but never at the expense of safety or order. Clear visibility, adherence to traffic laws, and respectful behaviour help ensure that everyone — from families heading to Souq Waqif to friends watching the fireworks – can enjoy the day without fear or disruption.

 

 

National Day is one of Qatar’s most celebrated occasions — a time when the entire nation looks back on achievements and looks forward with pride. As celebrations continue to evolve, so too does the way people express their patriotism.

For drivers and residents, the challenge is clear: channel enthusiasm into safe and lawful practices. Respect for rules doesn’t dampen the festive spirit; it protects it.