A study conducted in Saudi Arabia has shown that over three times as many drivers drink coffee to help them stay alert behind the wheel than use energy drinks. The research, conducted by YouGov and commissioned by Continental Tires as part of its Vision Zero safety initiative, reveals how drivers turn to different types of caffeinated drinks to help them maintain concentration, but warns of the dangers of relying on certain types of beverages to enhance levels of alertness.
Of those questioned, just 15 percent turn to energy drinks for an energy boost, as opposed to 49 percent who choose coffee to help them stay alert. While the most popular drink overall was tea, far fewer — 35 percent — drink tea to benefit from any extra “kick” it gives them. Just 9 percent of respondents choose carbonated beverages to boost their levels of alertness, with this figure rising to 11 percent and 17 percent for drinkers of karak chai and hot chocolate respectively.
But with over half a million accidents in 2016, recent efforts have been made by the Saudi government to improve urban mobility by investing in safe infrastructure. As motorists in the Kingdom are urged to pay extra attention and be more attentive while driving, Continental’s survey raises questions about how a driver’s choice of drink actually helps enhance their driving ability.
Dr. Dana Al-Hamwi, GCC-based medical doctor and certified clinical dietician, founder of Dr. Dana Diet Center (DDDC) and a regular expert commentator on MBC and Dubai TV, said: “Studies have shown that a cup of coffee or tea can be a ‘quick-fix’ for tired drivers. But caffeinated drinks shouldn’t be relied upon to maintain focus and concentration when on the roads.”
She added: “Caffeine has no stimulation effect on the brain. Indeed, excessive caffeine consumption can cause symptoms such as irritability, nervousness, irregular or rapid heartbeat, muscle twitching and slurred speech. At the same time, drinks that are high in sugar content can actually lead to fatigue.”
Jose Luis de la Fuente, managing director of Continental Middle East, said: “There are many different elements that can play a role in road accidents, and the human factor is just one of these. This is why driver education is a key element of Continental’s Vision Zero initiative. In undertaking this study, we wanted to better understand how the effect of consuming different drinks influences drivers in Saudi Arabia.”
A coffee a day keeps tiredness at bay for 49% drivers in KSA — Study
A coffee a day keeps tiredness at bay for 49% drivers in KSA — Study
Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action
The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action.
From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season.
Key sporting events taking place during DSF:
Dubai Racing Carnival
- Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13.
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys.
More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday
Silver Cup
- Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24
- Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club
Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup
Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4
- Date: Jan. 4
- Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track
The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4
Hood to Coast Dubai 2026
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast
Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k)
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Meydan
Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run
Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026
- Date: Jan. 11
- Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon
A citywide sporting season
With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.
