Qatar’s Ministry of Interior (MOI) has officially discontinued the Metrash2 mobile application, which was phased out on March 1, 2025. This significant change requires all Qatar residents and citizens to transition to the new Metrash app to maintain access to essential government services.
Metrash2: The End of an Era
The Metrash2 app, which served as Qatar’s primary government services platform for years, has reached its end of life. The Ministry announced this change in February 2025, giving users a brief window to prepare for the transition. Just days before the discontinuation, the MOI issued a reminder to all citizens and residents to download the new application to ensure uninterrupted access to e-services.
The discontinuation affects all Metrash2 users regardless of their residency status or service needs. The app, which had over one million users and facilitated millions of transactions, has now been completely replaced.
The New Metrash Application
The replacement Metrash app was initially launched in December 2024, featuring a redesigned user interface and expanded functionality. Unlike its predecessor, the new application requires updated device specifications:
- iOS devices must run version 13 or higher
- Android devices need version 29 or above
Users who haven’t yet made the switch should download the new application from either the App Store or Google Play Store immediately to avoid service interruptions.
Enhanced Features and Services
The updated Metrash application comes with significant improvements over the previous version. While Metrash2 offered over 200 services, the new Metrash app provides access to more than 400 services through different mobile devices.
Key enhancements include:
- More user-friendly design and navigation
- New payment methods, including Apple Pay integration
- Personal authorization capabilities
- Enhanced certificate services (request, reprint, and share)
- Family registration features that allow adding dependents without phone numbers linked to their Qatar ID cards
The Ministry of Interior has emphasized that the new application streamlines many processes, reducing the number of steps required to complete transactions.
User Reactions and Challenges
The transition hasn’t been without issues. According to recent user reviews on the Google Play Store, some users have reported bugs and technical issues:
“Some work needed on the bugs, 1 calendar for DOB fixed; 2 short password requirements make it a cakewalk for hackers brute force!? Not safe at all; 3 address issues with entering characters.”
Another user mentioned: “While applying for my child’s residence visa, I am getting an error message at the end without any explanation. All documents are uploaded and accepted by the app, but after pressing the final ‘confirm’ button, an error message appears which is just a red X with no description.”
However, many users appreciate the improved interface, with one reviewer noting: “This application offers a streamlined user experience with its intuitive interface. Navigating through the various sections is effortless and efficient.”
Registration Process for the New App
For new users or those reinstalling the application, the registration process has been simplified:
- Download the updated Metrash app from the appropriate app store
- Select your preferred language (Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Malayalam, or Urdu)
- Enter your Qatar ID number
- Receive an activation key via SMS and send it to 92992
- Create a 6-digit PIN code
- Receive a confirmation SMS once registration is complete
The new application maintains the ability to be used on two devices simultaneously, following a similar activation process for the second device.
Available Services
The Metrash app offers a comprehensive range of services across various categories:
- Traffic services (violations, vehicle registration)
- Residency services
- Visa services
- Citizen services
- Security services
- Certificate services
Users can also access their E-wallet which contains official documents, including Qatar ID, residence permit, driving license, and vehicle registration.
Looking Forward
With the transition now complete, the Ministry of Interior continues to enhance the Metrash platform. The app has received regular updates, with the most recent one on March 2, 2025, addressing minor bugs and enhancing performance.
The discontinuation of Metrash2 marks another step in Qatar’s digital evolution, aiming to provide more efficient, secure, and user-friendly government services to its residents and citizens. As with any major platform change, users can expect ongoing improvements and feature additions in the coming months as the new Metrash application matures.
What To Do Now
If you haven’t already made the switch:
- Ensure your device meets the minimum requirements (iOS 13+ or Android 29+)
- Download the new Metrash app from your device’s app store
- Complete the registration/login process
- Familiarize yourself with the new interface and feature locations
- For any technical issues, contact the Metrash helpline at 2342000 or email at info@moi.gov.qa
This transition, while potentially disruptive in the short term, promises a more robust and feature-rich platform for accessing Qatar’s government services in the long run.
