Dubai has finalized the construction of 40 air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders, reinforcing efforts to enhance road safety and improve working conditions, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Sunday.
The project, developed in coordination with delivery companies, was initially introduced in November 2023. Each rest stop is equipped with snack dispensers, water coolers, and mobile phone-charging stations, providing much-needed relief for riders working in extreme weather conditions. Designed to shield against intense sunlight, the facilities can accommodate up to 10 people at a time.
Strategically placed based on demand and data analysis, the new shelters are located in high-traffic areas, including Hessa Street, Barsha Heights, Al Barsha, Dubai World Trade Centre, Business Bay, and Dubai Marina.
The initiative is part of a broader push to support delivery riders, as the demand for services continues to rise with Dubai’s growing population. Motorcycle deliveries have surged, with over 124,000 bikes registered in the UAE—92,000 of which operate in Dubai.
Delivery riders remain one of the most vulnerable groups on the road. In 2023, motorcycles accounted for 18% of total road accidents in the UAE, with 42 fatalities and over 1,000 injuries recorded. Safety regulations, including a ban from the fast lane in 2021 and enhanced training requirements introduced in 2022, have been implemented to reduce risks.
