On August 20, 2026, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) launched a commendable initiative aimed at supporting delivery bike drivers in the emirate. In collaboration with Emirates Food Bank and Deliveroo, the RTA commenced the daily distribution of meals at designated rest areas near bus and metro stations across key locations in Dubai.
Supporting the Community and Economy
The initiative not only recognises the essential contributions of delivery drivers to the local economy but also aligns with Dubai’s vision to enhance quality of life. Ahmed Mahboob, the Executive Director of the Licensing Agency at the RTA, asserted that this initiative underscores the RTA’s role as a key player in national efforts to ensure the safety of delivery workers. This is particularly pertinent during the intense summer months, when protective measures against heat stress are in place, running from June 15 to September 15. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has prohibited work under direct sunlight between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to ensure the well-being of labourers.
Meals Distributed Across Key Locations
The meals are being distributed daily across 23 sites designated as temporary rest areas for delivery bike drivers. These include prominent bus and metro stations such as Gold Souk Bus Station, Al Satwa Bus Station, Al Jafliyah Bus Station, Al Qusais Bus Station, Al Karama Bus Station, Rashidiya Metro Station, Al Furjan Metro Station, Dubai Multi Commodities Centre Metro Station, BurJuman Metro Station, Ibn Battuta Metro Station, and Etisalat Metro Station. The choice of locations ensures that the initiative serves the maximum number of delivery drivers during the summer months.
Emphasising Humanitarian Efforts
Manal Obaid Ben Yiroff, head of the executive team at Emirates Food Bank, highlighted the significance of participating in this initiative, which reflects the appreciation for the workforce that forms the backbone of both economic and social fabric. She conveyed the bank’s mission to support vulnerable groups and promote food sustainability while combatting waste through a humanitarian and national responsibility. She stated, “At Emirates Food Bank, we are committed to supporting all humanitarian initiatives that embody noble goals reflecting the values of Emirati society.”