Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed the construction of 40 air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders across key locations in the emirate.
This initiative is designed to improve road safety, enhance the quality of life for riders, and provide much-needed comfort as they wait for new orders.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “The implementation of these rest areas underscores RTA’s commitment to providing a safe and comfortable environment for delivery riders, particularly amid the rapid growth of the sector in recent years.”
With Dubai witnessing a surge in delivery services, the city is now home to 2,535 companies operating a fleet of 46,600 motorcycles. The increasing demand has necessitated better facilities to ensure riders’ well-being and compliance with road safety regulations.
The rest areas have been strategically placed based on operational data analysis, rider demand, and coordination with delivery firms. Locations include high-traffic zones such as Barsha Heights, Al Karama, Jumeirah, Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and Al Garhoud.
State-of-the-art facilities
Each rest area is designed to accommodate up to 10 riders, featuring an air-conditioned seating space and designated motorcycle parking zones. The structures minimise sun exposure while ensuring effective insulation without obstructing road visibility.
Al Tayer added, “This initiative also reinforces road safety for all users and aligns with Dubai’s Traffic Safety Strategy, which targets ‘Zero Fatalities,’ positioning the emirate as a global leader in road safety.”
RTA has also launched a comprehensive framework for the delivery sector, ensuring high-quality service standards, including professional certifications for delivery riders.
To promote excellence, RTA introduced the Delivery Service Excellence Award in 2022, encouraging companies and riders to uphold the highest road safety and customer service standards. The first edition honoured winners in 2024, and preparations are underway for the next round of awards this year.
Recognising top performers
The Delivery Sector Excellence Award comprises three categories: Companies, Riders, and Partners. It honours the top three delivery service providers and top three platform-based delivery firms, alongside recognising 200 outstanding riders.
For companies, the evaluation criteria include adherence to quality, health, and safety regulations, the adoption of global best practices, and rider training. Meanwhile, the Best Rider category assesses driving behaviour, compliance with safety standards, and professional conduct.