Booking Karwa Airport Taxi: A Step-By-Step Guide

Karwa taxis are the official taxis of Doha, Qatar, and are a convenient way to travel to and from Hamad International Airport. They are easily recognisable by their bright turquoise colour, with different roofs depending on the taxi operating company. You can find them at the taxi pavilion, located to the left end of the arrivals hall, or at designated ranks outside major hotels and landmarks. The taxi pavilion is the only authorised location to hire and board airport taxis. Passengers can choose between sedans and vans, with special taxis available for larger families or those with lots of luggage. Various cashless payment options are accepted, and taxis can be booked in advance by phone, via the Karwa app, or on the website.

Booking a Karwa taxi in advance

Karwa taxis are the official taxis of Doha, Qatar, and they offer a convenient and flexible way to travel to and from Hamad International Airport. You can book a Karwa taxi in advance by calling their call centre on +974 800 8294 or +974 4458 8888, or by using the Karwa App, available on Android and iOS. You can also book through their website at www.karwa.qa.

When booking in advance, you will need to provide your pick-up location and destination, as well as the date and time of your journey. You may also be able to specify your preference for a sedan or a van, depending on your seating and luggage requirements. If you are travelling with a large family or have a lot of baggage, you can request a special taxi. If you require a taxi with wheelchair access, it is recommended that you call Mowasalat directly on (+974) 4458 8888 to give them as much advance notice as possible.

When booking through the app, you can also add credit to your account, which can be used for payment. The app also offers a Scan N Pay option, although you will need an internet connection to use this. If you do not have an internet connection, you can pay by cash or card. If you are paying by card, Karwa accepts MasterCard, VISA, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Payment methods

Karwa taxis accept various cashless payment methods, including MasterCard, VISA, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and NAPS. You can also pay in cash, but this must be in local currency.

If you are using the Karwa app, you can add credit to your account, and there is also a Scan N Pay option. This requires either a wifi or mobile data connection.

The Karwa app is available on both the App Store and Google Play, and you can also book online via the Karwa website or by phone.

If you are using a ride-hailing app such as Uber or Careem, you can also pay with your card or cash.

Finding the taxi rank at the airport

A taxi rank, or taxi stand, is a queue area where taxis line up to wait for passengers. They are usually located at high-traffic areas such as airports, and are typically marked by painted signs or special lamps with 'taxi' painted on the sides.

At Hamad International Airport, the taxi rank is located to the left end of the Arrivals Hall. Follow the 'Taxi' sign from the Arrivals Hall, or ask at an information desk, or use the airport map to find your way. Here, you will find a fleet of bright blue Karwa taxis ready to take you to your destination. You can choose between sedans and vans, depending on your seating and luggage requirements. Special taxis are also available for larger groups or those with a lot of baggage.

If you require a taxi with wheelchair access, you may need to pre-book a minicab or executive car to collect you from the designated pick-up area. At London City Airport, for example, there is a rank of licensed London Black Taxis outside the terminal, many of which have built-in wheelchair access.

Using the Karwa app

The Karwa app is available on both the App Store and Google Play. You can use the app to book a taxi within seconds. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the Karwa app:

• Downloading the App: Search for "Karwa Taxi" in the App Store or Google Play and download the app.
• Creating an Account: Open the app and create an account by providing your personal information, such as your name, phone number, and email address. You may also have the option to sign in as a guest.
• Booking a Ride: On the homepage of the app, you will see a map with your current location marked. Enter your pick-up and drop-off locations, or simply drop a pin on the map to indicate your desired location. You can also specify the number of passengers and any special requirements, such as luggage space or accessibility needs.
• Selecting a Vehicle Type: Depending on your location and the availability of taxis, you may have the option to choose between different types of vehicles, such as sedans or vans. You may also have the option to select additional services, such as the Economy Service for a more budget-friendly ride.
• Confirming the Fare: Before confirming your booking, the app will display the estimated fare for your ride. The fare may vary depending on the distance, time of day, and traffic conditions. The app may also provide the option to add a tip or apply a discount code, such as the RAIL code for a 20% discount when travelling to or from a metro station.
• Payment Options: The Karwa app offers various payment options, including the ability to pay with your card (MasterCard, VISA) or through your mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay). You can also add credit to your account on the app for future rides.
• Tracking Your Taxi: Once you have confirmed your booking, the app will display the estimated arrival time of your assigned taxi and provide real-time tracking of the vehicle's location.
• Receiving Ride Updates: The app may send you notifications or in-app updates about the status of your ride, such as when the taxi is approaching or if there are any delays.
• Rating Your Experience: After your ride is complete, you may have the option to rate your experience and provide feedback on the app. This helps maintain the quality of service and driver performance.

By following these steps, you can conveniently book and manage your Karwa taxi rides through the app, ensuring a seamless and comfortable travel experience.

Other taxi options

If you don't want to use Karwa taxis, there are several other taxi options available in Doha. These include ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem, which operate in multiple countries worldwide.

Uber is available in over 80 countries and can be downloaded on the App Store or Google Play. The minimum fare for Uber rides in Doha is QR8, and the price is determined by distance and surcharge.

Careem, with headquarters in Dubai, also operates across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. The app is available for download on the App Store or Google Play. The starting fee in Doha is QR3, with a per-kilometre charge of QR0.78 and a minimum fare of QR8. It's worth noting that Careem prices may increase during peak hours.

Additionally, if you prefer a more luxurious option, Mowasalat (Karwa) offers a premium limousine service with three types of services: Standard, VIP, and Luxury. This includes 7-seater SUVs and vans for families, as well as an Electric Vehicle Limousine Service with Audi E-Tron vehicles. These services can be booked through the Karwa application, online, or through their customer service centre.

Frequently asked questions