By Staff reporter
Dubai Delivery Riders Receive Time Off and Complimentary Meals During Iftar
As the holy month of Ramadan brings a spirit of reflection and devotion, food delivery companies in the UAE are ensuring that their riders, who play a crucial role in serving customers, are given the time and support they deserve to break their fast and enjoy the occasion.
Careem: A Thoughtful Approach to Iftar
For Abdul Rahman, a CareemFood captain who has been delivering food for nearly seven years, Ramadan has always held a special place. However, his job has often kept him away from breaking his fast with family. This year, Careem has implemented a policy allowing its delivery riders to pause work during iftar to reflect and recharge. Abdul Rahman, who often breaks his fast alone or with colleagues at a mosque, is grateful for this initiative.
Jaskaran Singh, VP of Careem Food, explained how the company ensures riders are well-supported during the holy month.
“We anticipate busy areas and ensure enough captains are available during peak iftar times. Our captains are free to manage their schedules, allowing them to take a break for iftar if they are fasting. Additionally, we organize iftars three times a week for our colleagues in the UAE and Jordan as a gesture of appreciation,”
Singh shared.
Deliveroo: Supporting Riders During Ramadan
Deliveroo has also stepped up to support its riders, acknowledging the adjustments they make during Ramadan. A spokesperson from the company stated,
“This is a time of devotion, and we admire our riders who fast while on duty. They can break their fast at their convenience and log out for iftar.”
To further support their riders, Deliveroo has introduced ‘Roo Vans’ and Edition Sites, where riders can collect complimentary iftar meals and Ramadan gift boxes.
“Our restaurant partners have generously contributed thousands of free or discounted meals to our riders throughout Ramadan,”
the spokesperson added, reflecting the deep community spirit during this period.
Restaurant Initiatives: Iftar Boxes for Riders
Restaurants in the UAE have also launched initiatives to provide delivery drivers with the sustenance they need. Dodo Pizza UAE has pledged over 3,000 iftar boxes for its riders, containing wraps, dates, and water. Walid Yehya, UAE Operational Director at Dodo Pizza, emphasized the importance of these efforts:
“Delivery drivers are the backbone of our business. They make life easier for everyone, and this initiative is our way of showing appreciation for their hard work.”
Aminia Restaurant in Al Karama has also launched a similar initiative, offering complimentary iftar food packs daily between 5pm and 6:30pm throughout Ramadan. The restaurant aims to distribute at least 1,000 iftar boxes, with plans to accommodate even more riders if needed. Directors Kabir and Asher Azhar emphasized that the initiative was created to offer delivery riders a moment of relief and nourishment during their busy Ramadan shifts.
Industry-Wide Recognition of Riders’ Dedication
The collective efforts by food delivery platforms and restaurants are a testament to the growing recognition of the hard work delivery riders put in during Ramadan. As orders surge during this period, companies are not only focused on meeting demand but also on ensuring their riders’ well-being, offering them moments of respite and nourishment as they continue their crucial work during the holy month.
News Source: Khaleej Times
