First time DUI case in Qatar – what should I expect?

Hey everyone,

I’m looking for some advice or insight about my situation in Qatar.

For the first time ever, I went to a concert near my house and drove my car. On the way back home, not too far from where I live, I was stopped by Lekhwiya (police). They told me they suspected me for someone else, but during the stop the officer asked if I had been drinking. I was honest and said yes.

After that, they took me to the traffic police station, did a blood test, and impounded my car. They told me that the Public Prosecution (النيابة العامة) will contact me and that I’ll have to appear before them.

My questions are: • When should I expect the Public Prosecution to actually call me? • What is the usual procedure and order of events in these cases? • What kind of penalties are possible under Qatari law? • Since this is my first time and I have no criminal or civil record (just some traffic violations), is there any chance for leniency — like a lighter fine, a warning, or even a pledge not to repeat it?

Any advice, personal experiences, or legal insights would be really appreciated. I’m pretty stressed and don’t know what exactly to expect.

Thanks in advance.