Will Remote Work Help Solve UAE’s Traffic Jams? Residents Weigh In
Traffic congestion continues to rank high on the list of daily woes for UAE residents, and a new study has put data behind the growing public concern. Conducted in June 2025 by an international research agency in collaboration with Al Wathba Insurance and RoadSafetyUAE, the survey provides a detailed snapshot of the commuter experience — and what the public believes can be done about it.
The study, based on a representative sample of 1,021 UAE residents, finds that a staggering 86% of respondents typically experience traffic congestion, with figures even higher in Dubai (91%) and Sharjah (90%). About 80% say congestion has worsened compared to last year, indicating an escalating issue that affects quality of life, productivity, and sustainability goals.
When asked where they most often experience traffic buildup, respondents pointed to the afternoon work commute, morning office rush, and school drop-offs. These peak-hour logjams are consistently observed across major emirates, with Abu Dhabi leading in three congestion indicators and Dubai in two.
Why Are Roads So Jammed?
The research uncovers key causes that are both systemic and behavioral. Topping the list:
- Too many vehicles on the road (65%)
- Simultaneous office start times (54%)
- Similar school schedules (48%)
- Over-reliance on private vehicles (45%)
Other factors include low vehicle occupancy, poor driving behavior, and limited infrastructure for alternative transportation — each noted by around a quarter of respondents.
"Traffic congestion is no longer just a commuter nuisance; it's a pressing issue that calls for data-driven, systemic intervention," said Muralikrishnan Raman, CFO of Al Wathba Insurance. "We are an analytics-led organisation, and it was important for us to move beyond anecdotes and partner with RoadSafetyUAE to better understand this daily challenge."
The Public Has Ideas
Significantly, the survey doesn't just highlight the problem — it outlines where people see potential for improvement. Work-from-home flexibility, expanded metro and rail systems, more road capacity, and improved bus services are the top suggestions. Together, public transportation solutions received an overwhelming 83% endorsement, underscoring strong demand for viable alternatives to private cars.
"Public sentiment provides an important layer of insight for policymakers," added Thomas Edelmann, Founder and Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE. "We've consistently supported efforts to improve road safety through research, and this time we wanted to focus on the lived experience of traffic congestion and how the public perceives the road forward."
The UAE has invested heavily in road and transport infrastructure in recent years, but these results show that continued evolution is needed — especially in addressing peak-hour surges and promoting alternative transit modes.
As the country pursues its goals of sustainable urban development and smart mobility, this timely research serves as a roadmap for aligning infrastructure investments with public needs and expectations.
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