Qatar Rail launched a bilingual back-to-school campaign encouraging students to use the Doha Metro for their daily commute. A 14-second animated video features a train-themed backpack mascot demonstrating the full journey—from entering Al Messila station and tapping tickets, to using escalators and boarding the train—aiming to promote the metro as a convenient and fun option for school travel.
Student use of public transport in Qatar remains low, with dedicated school buses (operated by Karwa) serving as the main option, while the Doha Metro sees very limited school-related ridership. Private cars dominate, causing significant congestion around schools. A 2023 survey of public school students identified barriers like long trip times, safety concerns, inconvenient schedules, and cultural factors. School bus usage varies (around 40–45% in some government schools), with private cars accounting for 55% or more. The Metro's Green Line serves education hubs but attracts few student trips. Qatar is promoting metro use through campaigns and school visits, and is transitioning buses to electric fleets by 2030. However, challenges remain in coverage, timing, safety perceptions, and integration. Increasing student transit use would require better route alignment, incentives, awareness, and first/last-mile connectivity.
