Dubai Cools Down for Delivery Workers

New Air-Conditioned Rest Stops Aid Delivery Workers in Dubai's Summer Heat

The summer heat in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, presents a significant challenge every year for those working outdoors. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has taken another step to protect delivery couriers from the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion by establishing 15 new air-conditioned temporary rest stops at various locations across the city.

Where are the new rest stops located?

The new facilities have been meticulously designed and placed at busy junctions, including exits of bus and metro stations:

Bus stations:

Gold Souq

Al Satwa

Al Jafiliya

Oud Metha

Metro station exits:

e& (Exit 1)

Al Qusais (Exits 1 and 2)

Emirates Towers (Exit 1)

Insurance Market (Exit 2)

Centrepoint (Exit 1)

Al Furjan (Exit 1)

Business Bay (Exit 2)

DMCC (Exit 2)

ADCB (Exit 2)

BurJuman (Exit 4)

What services do they offer?

The rest stops not only provide a cool escape from the scorching sun but are also equipped with several amenities that support the couriers' recovery and safety:

cooled water dispensers

mobile phone chargers

comfortable seating

motorcycle parking spaces

heat-resistant, sun-reflective exterior design

Free hot meals for those in need

The initiative is supported by the UAE Food Bank, which provides 7,500 hot, pre-prepared meals at these rest stops in collaboration with Deliveroo. This not only ensures nourishing care for couriers on duty but also contributes to the culture of corporate social responsibility and community care.

Connection to the midday work prohibition

The rest stops play an important role in observing the midday work prohibition in effect from June 15 to September 15, during which work is prohibited from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. This period is among the most hazardous for delivery workers, who often work outdoors for long hours. The RTA aims to offer opportunities for proper and safe rest, enabling workers to comply with legal regulations.

Community and traffic safety considerations

The new rest stops also contribute to improving traffic safety. Well-rested, hydrated couriers are more likely to adhere to traffic rules, reducing the chances of accidents and improving customer service quality. The RTA's long-term objectives include enhancing the transport infrastructure as well as improving the quality of life for workers, especially those who keep the city moving daily.

Summary

With this new measure, Dubai once again demonstrates its commitment to corporate social responsibility, worker protection, and creating a modern, humane urban environment. The new rest stops not only alleviate the heat but also set an example of how technology and infrastructure can make everyday life more comfortable and safer, even during the hottest months.

(Source of the article: Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announcement.)