UAE: More than 12,000 air-conditioned rest stations will be provided for delivery service workers across the UAE this summer.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation said the stations will have basic amenities and will be available during the Occupational Heat Stress Prevention Policy period.
The policy runs from June 15 to September 15, 2026.
It prohibits work under direct sunlight and in open areas from 12:30pm to 3pm during the hot summer months.
For Filipino delivery riders and other workers in the sector, the stations are meant to offer a safe place to rest when heat conditions become difficult.
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Why Delivery Workers Need Special Support
MoHRE said delivery workers face a different situation compared with workers assigned to one fixed outdoor site.
Many riders move from one place to another throughout the day.
Some goods also need to be delivered on time.
Because of this, workers may use the nearest rest station when needed while they continue their delivery duties.
The ministry said workers can locate the nearest station through interactive maps available on apps installed on their devices.
This makes the support easier to access while they are on the road.
Work May Continue or Stop During Restricted Hours
MoHRE said delivery service workers have the option to either continue working or suspend work during the daily restricted hours.
This should be done in coordination with the company where they are employed.
The restricted period is from 12:30pm to 3pm.
The ministry said the rest-station program forms part of a wider system that includes awareness campaigns, inspection work, and safety procedures during the summer policy period.
The goal is to reduce health risks linked to direct sun exposure and high temperatures.
Partners Back the Worker Safety Drive
MoHRE said several government and private-sector partners are supporting the rest-station project.
These include Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, Abu Dhabi Mobility, Departments of Economic Development in different emirates, and Emarat.
Major delivery platforms are also part of the effort, including Talabat, Deliveroo, Noon, Careem, and Keeta.
Restaurants, shopping malls, retail stores, and cloud kitchens are also helping implement the initiative.
What Workers and Employers Should Know
Delivery workers should check the available map tools on their work apps and use the nearest rest station when needed.
Employers should coordinate with workers on whether they will continue or suspend work during the restricted hours.
The main thing to know now is that summer heat rules begin on June 15, and rest stations will support delivery workers until September 15.
