Rush hour traffic in the UAE can turn a short commute into hours of frustration. To avoid the gridlock, many people are heading straight to the gym after work, turning wasted time into a chance to improve their health and well-being.
For some, this isn’t just a time-saver it’s a lifestyle shift.
Saving Time and Gaining Energy
Take Alaa Alhaj, for example. Her workplace is only 20 minutes from her home when the roads are clear, but during rush hour, the commute takes over two hours. “It was exhausting,” she shared. “I started going directly to the gym after work, and by the time I finish my workout, the traffic has eased. Now, I save time and feel more energetic.”
This change didn’t just help Alaa avoid traffic it transformed her routine. “Instead of wasting time in traffic, I focus on my physical and mental health. It’s been a huge improvement to my daily life,” she said.
More Than Just Exercise
Similarly, Rania Moustafa, 23, finds her post-work gym routine a great way to decompress. “After sitting all day at my desk, I dread the idea of sitting in traffic,” she admitted. Instead, she heads to the gym, which helps her feel refreshed. “It’s not just about fitness—it’s about letting go of the stress of the day.”
Rania values the balance this routine brings. “It’s a productive way to spend my time, and it keeps me accountable for staying active,” she explained. “The gym makes me feel accomplished and improves my lifestyle.”
A Break from the Grind
For Diya Jadallah, a 44-year-old who commutes daily from Dubai to Ajman, the gym is a sanctuary. “My commute takes two hours each way, and it was draining me,” he said. “Now, I head to the gym to unwind. It helps with my stress and gives me a sense of control over my day.”
Diya has seen improvements in both his mental and physical health. “I sleep better and feel more positive. The gym isn’t just about fitness it’s my escape from the daily grind.”
Making Better Use of Time
Hazem Hamra found his own way to reclaim his evenings. “I used to sit in traffic for hours, feeling like I was wasting my life. Then, I decided to spend that time at the gym instead.”
This simple change made a big difference for Hazem. “I’ve improved my health and saved hours of frustration. By the time I leave the gym, the traffic has eased, and I get home quicker.”
A Growing Trend
This approach is becoming popular across the UAE. Residents are turning traffic frustrations into opportunities for self-improvement, making their lives healthier and more productive. By hitting the gym during rush hour, they’re not just saving time they’re taking control of their well-being.
This trend is a testament to how small changes can have a big impact. Instead of enduring the stress of traffic, UAE residents are embracing a healthier, more balanced way of life.
