The Joint Committee for Traffic Safety in Abu Dhabi has partnered with talabat, a leading food delivery platform, to introduce solar-powered rest areas for delivery riders in the UAE capital. This initiative, known as “Summer Together,” is supported by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, along with other government entities. The collaboration aims to provide easily accessible stations where delivery riders can recharge and hydrate between orders during the summer season.
As part of the initiative, air-conditioned mobile buses have been relaunched and strategically positioned across key rider locations in Abu Dhabi. These buses, in combination with the solar-powered rest areas, offer convenient options for delivery riders to take a break and rejuvenate during their shifts.
The introduction of three solar-powered rider rest areas aligns with the UAE government’s commitment to a greener future and its efforts to reduce carbon footprint. The initiative supports the country’s sustainable development goals and precedes the upcoming COP28 conference.
The solar-powered rest areas were constructed by Smart Energy Solutions (SES), a local provider of renewable energy solutions. The smart boxes are equipped with rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for fuel consumption and significantly reducing CO2 emissions. These self-sufficient rest areas operate 24/7 and provide delivery riders with comfortable seating, air-conditioning, water dispensers, and mobile recharge stations. The design also includes a shaded parking area for bikes and an air pump to check tire pressure.
Engineer Abdulrahman Ali Al Shizawi, Head of the Technical Committee for Traffic Safety, emphasized the positive impact of such initiatives on traffic safety. He encouraged community members to be patient and considerate when interacting with delivery riders on the roads, particularly during the summer season.
Susanne Stulemeijer, Vice President of Communications, Public Affairs & Corporate Responsibility at talabat, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Joint Committee for Traffic Safety. She emphasized the importance of sustainable solutions for rider safety and well-being, highlighting the UAE’s role in spearheading sustainability efforts in the region.
The “Summer Together” initiative takes a hybrid approach by combining stationary smart boxes with mobile air-conditioned buses. This provides flexibility to relocate the buses based on the changing concentration of delivery riders across the capital. The goal is to ensure that all delivery riders have access to rest areas for relaxation and recharging during the summer months.
By prioritizing the safety and well-being of delivery riders, the Joint Committee for Traffic Safety and talabat are working together to create a more sustainable and supportive environment for the food delivery industry in Abu Dhabi.
