“It’s a huge relief for us, allowing us to concentrate on both work and road safety,” remarked Kafeero Fred, a Ugandan national employed by Talabat, expressing his satisfaction with the newly designated rest areas for food delivery riders. “Previously, I had difficulty finding a spot to rest between deliveries. Now, with these designated rest areas, I can quickly recharge, grab a beverage, and resume my duties without feeling drained,” Fred continued, feeling more appreciated and cared for. In a joint initiative by government bodies and the private sector, over 6,000 rest areas have been set up throughout the city. These areas are furnished with vital amenities such as drinking water, snacks, charging stations, a music system, and a television, enabling delivery riders to take rejuvenating breaks. This initiative addresses the increasing concerns about the welfare of riders who work tirelessly in challenging outdoor conditions. “These service areas make it very convenient for us to rest and take breaks,” noted Gurmej Singh, another Talabat rider. For some, these stations double as entertainment hubs. “I enjoy listening to music and sometimes watching a movie during my breaks. It’s fantastic to have a place where I can relax and enjoy some entertainment before returning to work,” shared Neeraj Pali, a Talabat delivery rider in the Mamzar and Al Nahda areas of Dubai. For others, the stations provide an ideal space for religious practices. “I sometimes miss reading the Quran and praying. Now, I have a place to fulfill my religious obligations,” said Mohammed Shahad, a Talabat rider. “These rest areas have been a godsend. They offer a quiet space where I can pray and read the Quran during my breaks. It’s reassuring to have a place where I can fulfill my religious duties while working,” Shahad added. “Having a spot to sit and relax after hours of riding makes a significant difference,” Singh remarked, noting that this initiative shows recognition and appreciation for the riders' hard work. Similarly, Deliveroo has introduced hydration stations and Roo buses, providing riders with a comfortable place to rest while delivering orders across the country. These air-conditioned Roo Buses will stop at key locations in Dubai during the summer, allowing riders to recharge. For 22-year-old Lovepreet Singh, a Deliveroo rider, these rest areas help him cope with the heat. “I take at least four 10 to 15-minute breaks during my shift and spend my entire hour-long break when I'm not delivering,” Lovepreet said, appreciating the comfort provided by the chill station. “I am grateful that the cooling station offers us cold water and juice. It gets very hot in the afternoon, and I appreciate our company's efforts to care for the riders,” Lovepreet added. Mohsin Ali, another Deliveroo rider, takes two to three breaks between deliveries. “The chill station is very beneficial. It provides a comfortable place to cool down, especially on hot days. Access to these facilities helps us stay focused and perform our jobs better, prioritizing our safety,” Ali explained. “The best part is, these rest areas are easily accessible. I know where to find one whenever I need a break,” Ali concluded.