RTA Completes 20 Air-Conditioned Rest Areas for Delivery Riders in Dubai

Photo : Dubai Government Media Office

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has recently completed the construction of 20 air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders, marking a significant milestone in an ongoing project that plans to establish a total of 40 such facilities across key locations in the Emirate. This initiative is designed to promote road safety, improve the well-being of delivery riders, and minimize the risk of road incidents by providing comfortable amenities where riders can rest while awaiting new orders. The RTA’s goal is to enhance overall rider satisfaction and encourage strict adherence to traffic regulations.

Commitment to Traffic Safety

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, emphasized the RTA's dedication to creating a safer and more comfortable environment for delivery drivers. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with Dubai's broader Traffic Safety Strategy, which aims for "Zero Fatalities" and aspires to make Dubai the world’s safest city in terms of traffic safety.

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“The construction of these rest areas is in response to the rapid growth of the delivery sector, driven by increasing public demand for goods. As of June 2023, there were 2,535 companies operating delivery services in Dubai, utilizing a fleet of 40,088 motorcycles,” Al Tayer explained.

He further noted that the locations for the rest areas were selected after a thorough analysis of operational data and a study of areas with the highest demand for delivery services, conducted in coordination with delivery companies. Consequently, the RTA has established rest areas in several strategic locations, including Hessa Street, Al Barsha Heights, Al Karama, Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah, Dubai World Trade Centre, Al Satwa, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and several other key areas across the city.

Thoughtful Design and Amenities

The external design of these rest areas has been carefully planned to minimize the impact of sunlight, ensuring adequate insulation while maintaining a clear view for the occupants. Each rest area is equipped with air conditioning, snack vending machines, water dispensers, and mobile phone charging stations, providing a comfortable space for riders to rest. Depending on the location, each rest area can accommodate up to 10 people, and ample motorcycle parking spaces have been provided adjacent to each facility.

Delivery Service Excellence and Awards

To further improve the quality and safety of delivery services in Dubai, the RTA has introduced several key initiatives, including the issuance of professional certificates for delivery drivers. In 2022, the RTA launched the Delivery Service Excellence Award, aimed at fostering competition among delivery companies and drivers. This award is part of the RTA's broader strategy to enhance traffic safety, ensure compliance with traffic laws, and elevate the quality of service provided by delivery companies to their customers.

The Delivery Service Excellence Award is divided into two main categories. The first category recognizes the top three delivery companies and the top three companies providing delivery services via smart platforms and applications. The second category is dedicated to drivers, with awards given to the top 100 professional drivers.

The selection criteria for the awards are rigorous, focusing on adherence to safety, quality, health, and environmental standards, as well as the implementation of best international practices, the use of modern technologies, and the provision of continuous training. For drivers, the criteria include maintaining a record free of complaints, violations, and incidents, as well as demonstrating a commitment to enhancing service quality and contributing to the growth of a safe and secure delivery environment.

The completion of these air-conditioned rest areas marks a significant step forward in the RTA’s efforts to improve the working conditions for delivery riders in Dubai. By providing these essential amenities, the RTA is not only enhancing the comfort and well-being of the riders but also reinforcing its commitment to traffic safety and service excellence. As the project continues, with an additional 20 rest areas planned, the RTA remains focused on ensuring that Dubai becomes a global leader in traffic safety and a model for urban infrastructure that supports both public demand and the welfare of service workers.