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Dubai/Abu Dhabi/Fujairah: Snail-paced traffic, blazing horns and rising blood pressure - this is what motorists have to go through on their daily route to work.
But have they ever considered turning in their car for a bicycle?
The scorching midday sun and the sheer madness of fellow motorists would most likely put anyone off the idea of using a bicycle. But would those opinions still stand if dedicated bicycle lanes were constructed?
In a recent Gulf News poll, 33 per cent of respondents said they would like to cycle to work, 29 per cent said there are not enough tracks, 24 per cent said they would never consider it, and the remaining 15 per cent said they love their car too much and would never give it up.
City Talk took to the streets and asked residents if they have ever considered cycling to work and if they would like to do so if there were dedicated lanes for bicycles.
Kamel Chahade, Greek salesman, 33, said: "I would cycle to work definitely if there were dedicated lanes here. The traffic and the driving here is a bit crazy so dedicated lanes are essential. Cycling to work is great because then you do not have to worry about finding a parking spot. At the same time it is a healthier option and better for the environment."
Yaffa Joawailly, freelance director from Egypt, 26, said: "During the winter months I would definitely use a bicycle to go to nearby places if there were dedicated bicycle lanes. I miss walking around and in this country - you are always stuck indoors. Cycling also has its advantages because it helps you to lose weight. But I would not think of using it to go to work because I might end up being late and will not look as fresh as everyone else."
Abdullah Ponneth, chief accountant, India, 50, said: "Dedicated lanes would ensure safety of the cyclists. I would not mind considering it as an option, but it all depends on the distance one has to travel to get to the office. Cycles are used to get around in many countries so they could become popular here too."
Gloria Reinbacher, sales woman from Mauritius, 30, said: "I like bicycles but would only use them to get to places near my home, like if I had to shop for groceries. But it is not a good idea to cycle long distances. I could handle the heat in the summer but people drive very dangerously and cyclists would put their lives at risk."
Sukian Khalid, student from Iraq, 20, said: "No, cycling to work does not appeal too much to me. I think it would be a waste of time to go somewhere by cycle. I would prefer a car for travelling at all times."
Chrisanto Dayag, Filipino sales representative, 27, said: "No way. I will never use a bicycle to get to work because I live very far away from the office, and by the time I arrive I will be very tired. Cycling is only good for people who want to travel a short distance because it is more practical than driving a car."
Anwar Hussain, Indian shop assistant, 34, said: "Before I used to walk or take taxies but now I cycle to work and almost everywhere else, and it made a huge difference to me. If the authorities can provide cycling routes and educate car drivers more about the rights of cyclists then we will see more people on their bikes."
Dileep Devan, electrical engineer from India, 33, said: "Cycling to work is the best option if the conditions allow and if the authorities can make it easier for cyclists. If more people take-up cycling as an alternative to cars, then we will see less health problems. More cycling lanes could be built and also drivers need to be more made aware of cyclists and their rights as road users."
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