Dubai: It's not only time that people waste when they commute.

For most UAE residents, transportation costs constitute an average of four per cent of their annual take-home pay, according to a study conducted by Regus. A smaller portion of residents (about 22 per cent) spend between five and ten per cent or more of their yearly salary to fund their commutes.

The global average proportion of yearly salary devoted to commuting is a little lower than in the UAE, about 3.3 per cent, however, this is not such a huge difference, according to Mark Dixon, CEO of Regus.

Steve Gregory, managing partner at Holborn Assets, said lengthy commutes can have a significant impact on the worker's wallet. Those who drive their own cars don't just bear rising petrol costs, they also deal with vehicle maintenance expenses and a host of government fees.

"People count the cost of fuel, but forget the cost of devaluation on their cars and servicing and repairs. Many therefore find it more practical to hire a car for commuting, especially from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. Some look to find other people to share the cost. To take a seat in a car to Abu Dhabi and back can cost Dh80 per day," noted Gregory.

Private cars

Dixon said transport spending in the UAE is a little bit higher compared to other countries around the world because many residents in the country rely on private cars and taxis to get to work.

"We can suppose this slight hike in cost of commuting is due to the fact that most workers in the UAE use their own cars or chauffeurs/taxis ... the worker has to singly foot the bill for petrol and use of the car in general," he said.

"Chauffeur costs are also notably high and globally, commuters that select this means of transport are less represented than in the UAE. With public transport, these costs are more diluted," he added.

Overwork: Stress factor

One in four workers in the UAE considers long-distance trips to work as a stressful factor that might compel them to quit their job.

Figures collated by Regus indicate that lengthy commutes rank as the fourth biggest factor that may affect worker loyalty.

Topping the list are lack of communication and involvement by top management, lack of promotions despite good work results and lack of company vision.

About 24 per cent of the respondents said overwork can make them consider leaving their present job.