Journal of Infrastructure, Policy and Development 2024, 8(3), 3051.
https://doi.org/10.24294/jipd.v8i3.3051
1
Case Study
Advancing urban mobility in the State of Qatar—Establishing a
framework for autonomous vehicles in Doha
Almaha Al-Malki
*
, Muhammed Madandola, Sarah Al Thani, Goze Bayram, Amina Al-Kandari,
Raffaello Furlan
Department of Architecture and Urban Planning (DAUP), Qatar University, Doha PO. Box 2713, State of Qatar
* Corresponding author: Almaha Al-Malki, almaha.almalki00@gmail.com
Abstract: The Government of Qatar is investing considerable resources in the development
of integrated transport infrastructure as a solution to traffic congestion and environmental
degradation. Autonomous vehicles are expected to be one of the methodologies for enhancing
the quality of the built environment and fostering a more sustainable and environmentally
conscious urban milieu. While autonomous cars have the potential to address urban difficulties
and be utilized for personal, group, and public transit purposes, their implementation in the
specific context of Doha has not been thoroughly analyzed. This research explores the potential
impacts that autonomous vehicles are expected to have on travel demands, parking needs, and
urban planning. It discusses the benefits and challenges associated with autonomous vehicles
and predicts their likely implementation and development based on the different precedents. In
addition, it explores how it will affect planning decisions such as drop-off and pick-up areas,
parking and public transit. The research utilizes a qualitative approach through literature
content analysis, field observations, and mobility analysis. Several case studies are analyzed to
explore how autonomous vehicles can operate within a limited zone. The study uncovers the
issue of ownership and mode of operation as essential factors that can affect the impact of
autonomous vehicles (AVs). In addition, implementing AVs may create complex
environmental concerns when greener and more sustainable transportation models are not
integrated. It is recommended that Doha adopt integrated planning and implementation of AV
technologies to ensure that AVs align harmoniously with the environmental stewardship
requirement. The research study also presents urban design frameworks for how existing urban
spaces can accommodate autonomous vehicles.
Keywords: autonomous vehicles (AVs); urban mobility; urban design; infrastructure; Doha
(Qatar)
1. Introduction
The dynamic transportation landscape has been a significant component of the
urban planning framework and land use. From the rudimentary forms of horse-drawn
carriages to current car-centric cities, urban mobility delineates the human adaptability,
innovation, and determination for efficient mobility of individuals and commodities
across the intricate landscapes of cities. The current discourse surrounding modern
innovations, societal development, and environmental sustainability underpins the
narratives of green and autonomous vehicles (AVs) as representative of the present
day. The concept of urban mobility in the 21st century encompasses a broader scope
than the mere transportation of individuals between different locations. 21st-century
mobility not only fulfills the role of mobility but also enhances efficiency by
capitalizing on and promoting technological advancements.
CITATION
Al-Malki A, Madandola M, Al Thani
S, et al. (2024). Advancing urban
mobility in the State of Qatar—
Establishing a framework for
autonomous vehicles in Doha.
Journal of Infrastructure, Policy and
Development. 8(3): 3051.
https://doi.org/10.24294/jipd.v8i3.30
51
ARTICLE INFO
Received: 17 October 2023
Accepted: 27 November 2023
Available online: 20 February 2024
COPYRIGHT
Copyright © 2024 by author(s).
Journal of Infrastructure, Policy and
Development is published by EnPress
Publisher, LLC. This work is licensed
under the Creative Commons
Attribution (CC BY) license.
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/
by/4.0/