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Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) carried out two motorcycle inspection campaigns in Sealine. It also conducted inspection of four-wheel bike rental offices in the area. These inspections were carried out to ensure the properties are licensed and committed to the application of the provisions of Circular No. (5)/2018, which specifies the operating guidelines for tourism transport activities, as well as the terms and standards for four-wheel drive bikes intended for tourists on desert trips.
QNTC launched an inspection campaign in early 2021. During the first campaign, 26 rental offices were notified of existing violations, with final warnings issued during the second campaign.
Rental offices that continue to violate license and security conditions will be closed during the third campaign, which started in February.
These inspections are being carried out by QNTC in collaboration with the Department of South Security, the General Directorate-General of Traffic and the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), represented by the Department of Protection and Wildlife, to improve safety and security during the Sealine winter camping season.
Commenting on this occasion, Berthold Trenkel, Chief Operation Officer of the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) said: “We work closely with all public and private institutions to improve security and safety during the camping season and to enhance the experience of visitors in Qatar. With a strong focus on Service Excellence, QNTC works with owners to help them meet the requirements and obtain the necessary licences. With a safety and service key, we aim to help sellers protect their investments while maintaining the safety of both tenants and campers.”
Mohammad Al-Ansari, Director of Tourism Licensing at QNTC, added: “The initiative follows Circular No. (5)/2018, which sets out the conditions and regulations for suppliers. The licensee shall keep periodic maintenance records, which shall include the history of the maintenance of brake pads, fuel and oil pumps, filters, batteries and other technical matters relating to the safety of passengers and bikes.”
Al-Ansari went on to say: ‘Requirements relating to the storage of motorbikes and fuel are included in the circular; the motorcycle tracks and the maximum speed allowed are clearly stated. Modifications to motorcycles that may have an impact on safety are not permitted, nor are any modifications to the exhaust. These measures help to give priority to the safety of tenants and campers and to prevent environmental pollution.”
The circular outlines further rules, including a stipulation that bike renters must be 16 years of age or older, with younger patrons only allowed to drive suitable bicycles under the supervision of their parents. The licensee shall also require bikers to wear safety gear, and ensure sure that the correct of helmets, shoes, and gloves, and protective equipment are being used. Drivers must wear seatbelts in vehicles accommodating more than one passenger.
This inspection campaign focuses on addressing safety concerns with respect to motorcycle and four-wheel bike rentals. As the head of the tourism sector in the country and the licensing authority, QNTC focuses on providing safe and secure experience.
With the popularity of camping and related activities, the enforcement of regulations is of great importance, helping the sector to develop offerings and alleviating concerns.
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08/03/2021
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