Government & Regulations

UAE Midday Work Ban: Delivery Riders Limited to Three Orders During Peak Heat Hours

Delivery platforms across the UAE have introduced additional safety measures for riders as the country's annual midday work ban remains in effect, including limiting riders to a maximum of three orders during restricted hours and providing access to thousands of air-conditioned rest stations.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is enforcing the midday work ban from 12:30pm to 3:00pm daily until September 15, prohibiting work under direct sunlight and in open areas. The regulation, now in its 22nd year, also stipulates that delivery riders cannot be required to work during the restricted period, while foot deliveries are prohibited.

To comply with the regulations, delivery platforms are required to cap riders at three deliveries, with the total delivery time not exceeding 60 minutes during the restricted hours.

Careem said it has updated its dispatch system to automatically limit order assignments and adjust delivery estimates to prioritise rider safety. Customers are also informed that longer delivery times are due to measures protecting delivery captains from extreme heat.

According to Vaibhav Makker, Vice President of Operations – Logistics & Care at Careem, the company uses data-driven rostering to balance customer demand with rider wellbeing, ensuring health and safety remain the top priority.

Meanwhile, Talabat has integrated an interactive map of nearby air-conditioned rest stations into its rider application, allowing delivery partners to easily locate cooling facilities during their shifts.

Mayank Khaitan, Director of Rider Lifecycle at Talabat, said the feature helps riders plan breaks and stay protected from high temperatures. The company also sends regular reminders encouraging riders to make use of the facilities.

The UAE currently has more than 12,000 air-conditioned rest stations, established through partnerships between government entities and private organisations. Careem's Captain app also directs riders to the nearest cooling stations as part of its 2026 Summer Initiatives, a four-month programme expected to benefit more than 80,000 delivery workers, including riders from other platforms.

In addition to cooling facilities, both companies have introduced further health and safety initiatives during the summer. Talabat is distributing care packages containing electrolytes, wet wipes and hygiene products, organising rest-stop events with refreshments, and conducting weekly health check-ups for riders.

Careem has introduced mandatory training on recognising heat stress symptoms and responding appropriately. The company has also partnered with the Pakistan Association Dubai to provide free medical support and with PepsiCo to distribute beverages and snacks to delivery captains.

MoHRE continues to monitor compliance with the midday work ban through smart digital monitoring systems and field inspections, ensuring employers adhere to regulations designed to protect outdoor workers during the UAE's hottest months.