We all know that riding bicycle is the most eco-friendly way of commuting especially for short distances. To test people?s reactions , Abu Dhabi(UAE?s capital) launched a bike sharing scheme last week. Yas Island and Al Raha Beach were chosen for the first stage as they have a proper cycling path . The service introduced last week on Yas Island and Al Raha Beach will soon be expanded to other locations such as Abu Dhabi Corniche, Khalifa City and Saadiyat Island.

Under  this scheme , users can rent bicycles for as little as Dh15 (USD 4) a day from the 75 available at each of 10 stations between Raha Beach and Yas Island. The bicycles can be parked at any of the stations, regardless of where they were rented. This allows cyclists to enjoy rides without having to worry about locks or returning the bicycles. Customers on Yas Island have started using the bike for short-distance travel. They take cycle from one point and dock it at another point. It is seen making a great start. On Yas Island, both residents and tourists have been taking the bikes.

Anyone holding a credit or debit card can take the bike on rent by swiping the card at the terminals without the help of an attendant. Customers can either buy a one-day pass for Dh15 or a three-day pass at Dh40, which offers the first 30 minutes of the ride free. If the bike is not docked after the first half an hour, then charges add up depending on the hours of usage. Monthly membership costs Dh99 and an annual membership Dh499.

Initially offering 75 bicycles for hire at 10 locations on Yas Island and Al Raha Beach, the round-the-clock service aims to offer both transportation benefits and support a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle in Abu Dhabi.

People are finding it really convenient. It beats public transport and they could take it anywhere.

It?s an investment for the health and environment of the nation. It gives people an option to exercise..

This is a great facility to test before making hasty decisions of buying bikes. There are many people who bought a bike and now use it as a coat hanger.The option to test it out first gives the person a feel for cycling without the hole in their wallet.

The new bike-sharing scheme is sponsored by Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. Bicycles are free for the first 30 minutes after a one-off fee, which varies depending on different packages. If the bike is not docked after the first 30 minutes, users will be charged Dh15 for a one-day pass.

Frequent users can purchase a Dh40 three-day pass or a monthly pass for Dh99. An annual membership for unlimited use costs Dh499.

This trend will create an awareness that bike can be used as a mode of transport for short-distance travel. When people show that they want it and it is possible, authorities will be convinced to build more cycling tracks .

This Bikeshare will help in encouraging a healthy, more economical and environmentally sustainable lifestyle for people in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi has announced its ambition to transform itself into a cycling- and walking- friendly emirate by 2020, according to a master plan revealed by the Department of Transport (DoT).

The plan aims to double the number of walking and cycling tracks by 2020, and develop secure infrastructure to integrate cycling and walking with other means of public transport. The Walking and Cycling Master Plan (WCMP) includes developing walking and cycling routes and facilities, especially in the commercial and central areas of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and western region, and will assist in reducing the use of private vehicles. Neighbourhoods will be provided with a network of walking and cycling links including crossings between neighbourhoods.

Sources :

http://www.thenational.ae/uae/new-bike-sharing-scheme-comes-to-abu-dhabi