Ashghal's QAR 81 Billion Infrastructure Plan Promises Major Flood Protection and Transit Upgrades for Doha Residents

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has launched a comprehensive five-year strategic plan worth QAR 81 billion ($22 billion) covering 2025-2029 to upgrade infrastructure across Doha and new residential areas. The initiative, detailed in official documents, aims to deliver road, utility and flood-protection projects that directly affect how residents move, live and stay safe during heavy rains.

The plan places a heavy emphasis on sustainability and flood resilience. According to Ashghal's published strategy, two major rainwater tunnels will be constructed in northern and southern Doha to improve stormwater management, a move expected to reduce the risk of street flooding that has historically disrupted traffic and damaged property during seasonal downpours.

Residential Upgrades and Micromobility

Work has already begun on the first package of the Izghawa and Al Thumaid Infrastructure Development Project, located northwest of Doha. Ashghal has committed QAR 688 million ($187 million) to this project, which will upgrade roads and utilities in the area, benefiting families living in those growing suburban communities by improving access to schools, shops and public services.

The Ministry of Transport has also updated the Qatar Bicycle Master Plan, which sets out a framework to develop micromobility options. The aim is to create a safer and more connected transportation system, giving Doha residents an alternative to car travel for short trips. The updated plan supports the government's broader push to reduce traffic congestion and promote healthier lifestyles, though specific routes and timelines have not yet been detailed.

Metro and LRT Expansion

Longer-term, the Ministry of Transport has released the outline for the Qatar 2050 Transportation Master Plan. By 2030, the Doha Metro is expected to expand to three lines, while the Lusail Light Rail Transit network will grow to four lines. These additions are projected to provide more frequent service and broader coverage, linking more neighbourhoods directly to the city centre and major employment hubs without relying on cars.

For Doha residents, the combined effects of these projects mean better stormwater drainage, faster commutes and expanded public transport options in the coming years. Ashghal says the five-year plan is part of the Qatar National Vision 2030, which seeks to create a modern, sustainable urban environment. While exact completion dates for individual projects remain to be announced, the scale of investment, exceeding QAR 81 billion, signals a sustained push to reshape the city's infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population.