UAE to open 6,000 rest stations for delivery drivers taking summer midday breaks

Delivery riders in the UAE will have more comfortable midday breaks during the hot summer months with the 6,000 rest stations to be opened across the Emirates, in partnership with various government entities and private sector companies.

An interactive map of these stations would help delivery drivers easily locate and access them during the nationwide midday outdoor work ban, which starts from June 15 and runs until September 15. During that period, any task or work performed under direct sunlight or open-air areas is not allowed from 12:30 p.m. until 3 p.m. to protect workers from occupational hazards and injuries related to the extreme summer heat.

“Delivery services are a key logistical sector, unique in nature, given that its workers do not stay in one place while the Midday Break is enforced, and due to the nature of certain materials being transported that need to be delivered on time,” a statement from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) noted.

The initiative is a continuation of last year’s pioneering project wherein 365 rest stations were provided for delivery workers during their midday break. Delivery companies including Talabat, Deliveroo, Noon and Careem have previously partnered with government agencies, while restaurants, shopping centers, retail stores and cloud kitchens this year are also joining the effort to offer rest areas for delivery drivers.

Now in its 20th year, the annual noon break provides respite for outdoor workers during summer months where temperatures could reach 50° Celsius or even higher. Companies are required to provide shaded areas and cooling equipment for workers during the three-hour break.

Companies face fines of up to Dh5,000 ($1,360) per worker and a maximum of Dh50,000 for multiple violations if they do not observe the regulation, although there are some exemptions to it.