Investigating Commuting Patterns of University Students in a High-Income Developing Country

This study explores the commuting dynamics of students at Qatar University (QU), focusing on transportation modes, demographics, and frequency of visits. The analysis reveals a predominant use of private cars, with 67% of students driving alone to campus, emphasizing the significance of individual mobility. The survey further delineates gender-based variations, particularly in the context of students commuting with chauffeurs, where 94% are female. Cultural factors play a crucial role, evident in the higher representation of Qatari nationals among students utilizing chauffeurs. While a small percentage utilizes university-provided bus services, the majority leans towards individual driving, reflecting a potential area for improvement in public transit accessibility. Overall, the findings contribute to understanding the effect of cultural, demographic, and infrastructural factors influencing students' commuting choices at QU. The implications of these insights extend to identifying policy initiatives aimed at more efficient transportation options for the university community.