Qatar University (QU) has become the first university in the country to introduce a dedicated smart mobility app, using artificial intelligence and real-time data to help tackle traffic congestion and make travel to and around its campus more efficient.
The new app, Masar by QU, uses AI-powered cameras and sensors to provide real-time information on traffic conditions, campus gates and parking availability, enabling students, staff and visitors to plan journeys and select the most suitable routes.
The initiative assumes particular significance as the QU campus receives approximately 200,000 cars every week.
Masar also provides congestion alerts and information on university bus routes and schedules, giving users a broader picture of transport options across the campus.
QU Vice President for Administration and Financial Affairs Dr Mai al-Naemi said the initiative reflected the university’s approach to enhancing the student experience through knowledge and technology.
"Masar reflects our approach to enhancing the student experience through the application of knowledge and technology,” she said.
"The app supports the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 to harness technology and innovation to improve quality of life and advance sustainable development. At QU, this means creating a campus where smart solutions make everyday life easier for those who study, work and visit, while helping us make better use of our resources and infrastructure.”
QU Associate Vice President for Operations Support and Associate Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Dr Mohammed Elshafie said the university’s approach to improving campus mobility was based on understanding the needs of its community and daily travel patterns.
Students played an important role in testing and developing Masar to ensure it responded to those needs, he said.
"This launch marks the first phase of the app. We will continue to add new features and develop practical solutions to improve travel around campus,” Dr Elshafie added.
The launch builds on a series of mobility improvements already introduced across the campus, including expanded parking facilities, the QU Campus Express, connections to the Doha Metro, student housing shuttles, accessible transport services and air-conditioned waiting areas.
QU said it would continue promoting safe and responsible travel across the campus by encouraging its community to plan journeys in advance, use parking and transport services responsibly, observe speed limits, prioritise pedestrian safety and avoid distractions while driving.