Dubai, UAE – June 5, 2024: As the scorching summer sun blankets the UAE, residents of Dubai are embracing a sustainable and healthy way to commute: biking.
Despite the rising temperatures, a growing number of individuals are opting for pedal power over traditional modes of transportation, citing practicality, health benefits, and environmental consciousness as their driving forces.
A Shift in Commuting Habits
Meet Mohsin Hasam Palija, a 35-year-old yacht captain from India who has traded taxis for two wheels on his daily 8km commute to work.
By utilizing a bike-sharing app, Palija has slashed his transportation expenses by nearly Dh280 per month, contributing not only to his financial savings but also to the reduction of carbon emissions.
“Docking stations for bikes are well-placed in my neighborhood and work area,” Palija explains. “I paid for unlimited use for a year, and whenever I need a bike, I open the app and grab one.”
Similarly, Muhammad Naveed, a 31-year-old sales professional from Pakistan, has found biking to be a more convenient and flexible option compared to public buses. “I had more control of my own time,” Naveed remarks.
With an approximate monthly saving of Dh300, Naveed highlights the convenience and environmental benefits of biking: “We’re not caught in traffic congestion, and imagine our contribution in reducing carbon emission because we have ditched cars for bikes.”
Environmental Impact and Health Benefits
According to a study by the European Cycle Federation, a commuter switching from a car to a bike for an 8km journey saves 750kg of carbon emissions annually.
This quantifiable impact underscores the pivotal role that biking plays in reducing the carbon footprint of urban transportation.
Additionally, the health benefits of cycling are not to be overlooked. Dr. Mohamad Awad, a consultant orthopedic surgeon, emphasizes that biking is an excellent form of exercise, aiding in weight loss and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
The Rise of Bike-Sharing Apps
Careem, a prominent ride-sharing company, has witnessed a surge in the popularity of its bike-sharing app among Dubai residents.
Sami Amin, senior director of operations at Careem, notes that 71% of users utilize Careem Bike for work purposes, signaling a shift towards sustainable transportation options for daily commutes.
Last year alone, Careem Bike users displaced a total of 1.29 million tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to removing 361 cars off the road.
Infrastructure Development for a Bicycle-Friendly City
In line with the growing demand for cycling infrastructure, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced ambitious plans to construct new multi-use tracks for bicycles, scooters, and pedestrians.
These tracks, spanning 13.5km in length and 4.5 meters in width, will connect Al Sufouh to Dubai Hills via Hessa Street, promoting accessibility and safety for cyclists and pedestrians alike.
Dubai’s masterplan aims to extend the total length of the current cycling track network from 544km to 1,000km by 2030, fostering a bicycle-friendly city that prioritizes sustainable urban mobility.
Conclusion
As Dubai navigates towards a sustainable future, the rise of biking as a preferred mode of transportation reflects a broader cultural shift towards environmental consciousness and healthy living.
With individuals like Mohsin Hasam Palija and Muhammad Naveed leading the way, biking serves not only as a practical means of commuting but also as a catalyst for positive environmental and health outcomes.
With continued investment in cycling infrastructure and community engagement, Dubai is poised to emerge as a global leader in sustainable urban mobility, one pedal at a time.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members