Using the theory of planned behavior to predict the use of an upcoming public transportation service in Qatar

Abstract

Public transportation systems play a major role in accommodating public travel needs. To accommodate the need for public transportation in Qatar, a metro network is currently under construction. However, commuters have different attitudes and beliefs about whether or not public transportation can fulfill their travel needs. To investigate the expected use of the future metro service once it becomes available, a self-reported questionnaire survey was conducted in the city of Doha. The theory of planned behavior was used to predict the intentions of residents of Qatar to use the forthcoming metro system, based on their held attitudes, perceived norms, and sense of control. The results showed that the factors predicting the intention to use the metro differ according to the purpose of the trip; work versus leisure. The perceived behavioral control was found to be important for residents considering to use the metro for work but not for leisure. These results also indicated that when residents feel that they will be able to use the metro, then they will more likely use it for work. The subjective norms were found to be an important factor influencing the use of the metro but only for leisure and not for work. This means that the use of the metro for leisure is dictated by whether other people close to the participants think it is appropriate or not for them to use the metro for leisure. The results can offer valuable insights for public agencies and policymakers in Qatar and other similar countries in the region.