RTA sets up 15 rest areas with free meal for delivery riders in Dubai

Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched 15 temporary air-conditioned rest areas at key bus and metro stations across the emirate.

The move aims at protecting delivery bike riders from the harsh summer heat. The initiative is aligned with the UAE’s Midday Work Ban, which prohibits outdoor work between 12:30pm and 3pm daily and remains in effect from June 15 to September 15.

 These new shelters build on RTA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing road safety and improving the well-being of delivery riders. They complement 40 permanent air-conditioned facilities already installed across Dubai. Each rest area features water dispensers, mobile charging stations, and nearby motorbike parking, all designed to offer relief and promote compliance with traffic and safety regulations.

In collaboration with the UAE Food Bank and food delivery platform Deliveroo, the rest stops are stocked with 7,500 hot meals to be distributed to riders free of charge. The initiative recognises the critical role delivery workers play in supporting Dubai’s fast-growing e-commerce and food delivery sectors, especially during the intense summer months.

Strategic locations

The temporary rest areas are located at four major bus stations: Gold Souq, Al Satwa, Al Jafiliya, and Oud Metha. Additionally, they can be found at 11 metro station exits including:  e&, Al Qusais, Emirates Towers, Insurance Market, Centrepoint, Al Furjan, Business Bay, DMCC, ADCBl and BurJuman 

Larger framework

RTA said in a press release on Tuesday that it has developed a comprehensive strategy to regulate and support the delivery sector, introducing policies and infrastructure that ensure high service standards and safeguard worker welfare. This initiative also supports sustainability goals by reducing food waste through responsible redistribution of surplus meals.

The UAE Food Bank, a key partner in the project, underscores the country’s humanitarian values. It views feeding those in need not just as charity, but as a moral responsibility aligned with the UAE’s broader goals of generosity, sustainability, and community solidarity.