Not even cheap fares seem to be enough to entice Dubai’s drivers away from their cars and onto the metro after a survey revealed almost half of people said they will still drive to work every day.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) unveiled fares for the metro system this week, revealing that a standard ticket will cost between AED2.50 ($0.68) and AED6.50 ($1.8).
But an online survey by Arabian Business revealed opinion is still divided on whether the metro will become a popular mode of transport in the city.
A total of 47.2 percent of respondents said the cheap fares would make no difference to their daily commute while another 33.6 percent of people said they would use it every day at the prices stated.
Fares vary according to the type of ticket and the distance travelled. An electronic top up or ‘No.1’ card will cost AED2.30 to travel within one of the city’s five zones, and AED5.80 for longer journeys.
Gold card holders, who can use the most comfy cabins, will have to pay AED4.60 and AED11.60 respectively, while senior citizens and students will be charged just 90 fils and AED2.90.
Only 9.4 percent of people surveyed thought the system will be overcrowded and just 9.8 percent said it will be busy on the weekend, but not midweek.
By Elsa Baxter on Thursday, 25 June 2009, www.arabianbusiness.com
