Where To Get A Karwa Bus Card? Simple Guide!

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Qatar has one of the most advanced public transportation systems in the Gulf, serving residents and visitors every day. Buses, metro trains, trams, taxis, and private vehicles make commuting across Doha efficient, affordable, and well connected.

For public bus users, understanding where to get a karwa bus card is essential for smooth and uninterrupted travel. This smart payment option removes cash-related issues and allows quick access to Karwa bus routes across the city.

New residents and visitors benefit from having the card ready for daily commuting and city exploration, especially those exploring nearby real estate options. In this blog, we’ll explain how the Karwa bus system works, where to buy the card, and how to use it.

What Is Karwa Bus?

Doha and other important locations in Qatar are connected by the public bus service known as the Karwa Bus. Operated by Mowasalat, the country’s leading transport authority, Karwa buses form a vital part of Qatar’s integrated transport network. 

These AC buses offer comfort and accessibility, with over 50 active routes across the country. Services generally operate from early morning until late evening, making them suitable for daily work commutes, shopping trips, and leisure travel. 

Most routes originate from the Doha Bus Station near the Gold Souq, allowing easy connections to major districts and metro stations. 

What Is a Karwa Bus Card?

 

The Karwa Bus Card is a smart e-ticketing solution used for cashless payments on Karwa buses. Passengers must tap the card when boarding and exiting to ensure accurate fare calculation. 

This system reduces delays, eliminates the need for physical tickets, and improves travel efficiency across the network.

KARWA Smart Card Types

According to Mowasalat, Karwa Smart Cards are available in three types to suit different travel needs:

  • Classic Card: Costs QAR 30 and is rechargeable for long-term use
  • Limited Card: Costs QAR 10 and allows two trips within 24 hours 
  • Unlimited Card: Costs QAR 20 and offers unlimited travel for 24 hours 

Choosing the right card depends on how frequently you plan to use public transport. 

What Do You Require to Get a Karwa Bus Card?

To ride Karwa buses, you need a valid smart card, which can be purchased and recharged at Doha Bus Station, major malls, The Pearl Qatar, and authorized retailers across the city. 

This makes access easy for residents living in high-demand rental properties, especially those located near main roads and transit corridors. 

Where Can You Buy and Top Up the Karwa Smart Card? 

 

Karwa Smart Cards can be purchased and topped up at multiple locations, including: 

  • Doha Bus Station 
  • Karwa Bus Stations 
  • Ticket Vending Machines 
  • Authorized Merchants 
  • Ooredoo Machines 

Additionally, passengers can recharge their cards digitally using Ooredoo Money. By dialing *140#, users can add amounts ranging from QR 5 to QR 500 by entering the first 10 digits of their card number. 

This option is especially helpful for frequent commuters who prefer mobile-based payments. 

Read Also: How to Obtain Qatar Family Residence Visa

How to Ride in the Karwa Buses?

All Karwa buses are operated by government-owned Mowasalat and serve extensive routes across Qatar. Buses usually run from early morning until midnight, with adjusted schedules on weekends and public holidays. 

Here are the steps to ride the Karwa buses correctly.

  1. Buy a valid Karwa Smart Card
  2. Check bus route and schedule
  3. Board the bus from designated stop
  4. Tap card when boarding bus
  5. Tap card again when exiting

Following these steps ensures smooth and stress-free travel on Karwa buses. Always keep your card ready and check schedules in advance to avoid delays. 

Conclusion

Knowing where to get a Karwa bus card makes traveling across Qatar simpler, faster, and more affordable. With multiple purchase locations, flexible card types, and easy recharge options, the Karwa Smart Card supports smooth daily commuting.

From buying the card to topping it up and using it correctly, this guide covered everything needed for stress-free bus travel. Whether you are a resident or visitor, Karwa buses offer a reliable way to move around the city.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where to get a Karwa bus card in Qatar?

You can get a Karwa bus card at Doha Bus Station, Karwa bus terminals, ticket vending machines, Ooredoo self-service kiosks, and selected merchants across Qatar. Cards are available for both residents and visitors without registration.

Can I buy a Karwa bus card at the airport?

Yes, Karwa Smart Cards are available at automated vending points at Hamad International Airport. This allows travelers to use public buses immediately after arrival without needing cash or prior setup.

How do I recharge my Karwa bus card online?

You can recharge your Karwa bus card online using the Ooredoo Money app or by dialing *140# on your mobile phone. Enter the first 10 digits of your card number and select an amount between QR 5 and QR 500.

Is the Karwa bus card reusable?

Yes, the Classic Karwa Smart Card is reusable and rechargeable at designated areas for long-term travel. Limited and Unlimited cards are designed for short-term use and expire after 24 hours from the time of activation.

 


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