UAE announces 10,000 air-conditioned rest stops for delivery workers in summer heat

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will establish more than 10,000 air-conditioned rest stations for delivery workers during this year's summer midday break, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) announced Tuesday.

According to WAM, the cooling stations, equipped with comfort amenities, will operate daily from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. between June 15 and September 15 across all seven emirates.

Now in its second decade, the annual midday break initiative expands significantly from last year's 6,000 stations. Delivery drivers for platforms including Talabat, Deliveroo, Noon, and Careem can locate the nearest rest area through interactive maps on their company apps.

The ministry emphasized the program's importance for mobile workers who cannot shelter in fixed locations during peak heat hours.

Government partners include Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, Abu Dhabi's Integrated Transport Centre, all emirates' Departments of Economic Development, and the Emirates General Petroleum Corporation. Private sector participants range from major shopping malls and restaurant chains to cloud kitchens and convenience stores.

"Delivery services represent a vital logistical sector with unique operational requirements," a ministry spokesperson said.

"This humanitarian initiative ensures worker safety while maintaining essential services during extreme temperatures that regularly exceed 45°C (113°F)."

Under UAE labor law, all outdoor employers must provide shaded rest areas with cooling systems, sufficient cold drinking water, approved electrolyte supplements, and first aid equipment during the mandatory break period. Violations can be reported to the ministry's hotline at 600590000 or through its digital channels.

The expanded program follows last summer's successful pilot and comes as the Gulf region faces increasingly intense heat waves linked to climate change. Medical studies show proper hydration and cooling breaks can reduce heatstroke cases among outdoor workers by up to 80%.