First of all welcome to Qatar

http://www.qatarliving.com/search?cx=008937172676595728955%3A066rihafv68...

in the previous link many topics and info on driving license, I suggest you read a little. As to my understanding If you have Dubai (UAE) driving license here in qatar is just a quick procedure to get Qatari Driving License. Otherwise you will have to go to driving school, and after that do the test.

On the taxi's issue somedays they are easy, others not that easy. I would suggest hiring a limo service.

Apt in 1 week...I guess if you can give the people in the forum with some ideas as where you are going to work/live then they can provide you with a lil more detailed info. My fisrt answer to this is "MAYBE". Anyway, in the link several topics on apartments/rooms for rent.

http://www.qatarliving.com/search?cx=008937172676595728955%3A066rihafv68...

Regards!!!