Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has expanded its network of temporary rest areas for delivery riders, increasing the number of designated locations to 23 across metro and bus stations during the annual midday work ban.
The initiative supports the UAE’s midday break programme, implemented under the directives of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, which prohibits outdoor work under direct sunlight between 12:30pm and 3:00pm from June 15 to September 15.
According to RTA, the number of temporary rest zones has increased by 53 percent compared to 2025, with eight new locations added this year to meet the needs of Dubai’s rapidly expanding delivery sector.
The authority said the initiative is designed to provide delivery riders with safe and comfortable spaces to rest while awaiting orders, helping reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and enhancing road safety across the emirate.
The expanded rest areas are strategically located at major public transport hubs, including Gold Souq, Al Satwa, Al Jafiliya, Al Qusais and Al Karama bus stations, as well as Centrepoint, Al Furjan, DMCC, BurJuman, Ibn Battuta and e& metro stations.
The move comes amid continued growth in Dubai’s delivery industry. RTA revealed that the number of delivery companies operating in the emirate has increased by approximately 18 percent over the past year, reaching 2,948 companies.
Officials said the selected sites were chosen to serve the highest possible number of riders and support the sector’s operational needs during the summer period.
To further support delivery workers, the temporary rest areas at bus stations have been supplied with ready-made hot meals through a partnership between the UAE Food Bank and Deliveroo.
RTA said the initiative recognises the vital role delivery riders play in serving residents and businesses while contributing to the growth of Dubai’s digital and on-demand economy.
The authority added that the measures form part of broader efforts to improve quality of life, safeguard workers’ wellbeing, and reinforce Dubai’s reputation as one of the world’s leading cities for living and working.
