Road Warriors: Challenges & Triumphs of UAE Delivery Riders
Title: Challenges and Rewards: Insights from UAE Delivery Riders
Delivery riders play a crucial role in our daily lives, seamlessly bringing our food cravings and packages to our doorsteps. Yet, as they navigate the bustling roads to fulfill our needs, they face numerous challenges that often go unnoticed. Veteran rider Ped Prasad Pandey, with 15 years of experience, sheds light on the intricacies of his profession, emphasizing the importance of understanding and support from both customers and authorities.
Pandey, employed by Aramex, recently received recognition from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police as one of the 100 honored delivery riders. The inaugural 'Delivery Sector Excellence Award' celebrated professionalism, dedication, and the positive impact of delivery companies on road safety standards in Dubai. The individual recognition for Pandey was a testament to his decade-long commitment to hard work and adherence to safety protocols.
The veteran rider highlights the inherent difficulties of being a delivery rider, especially when contending with fast cars on the road and challenging weather conditions, particularly during the hot summer months in the UAE. Despite these challenges, Pandey proudly mentions that he has not experienced any accidents in his 15-year career. Working approximately 13 hours a day, he acknowledges that the pay is sufficient to provide for his family, including his one-year-old son.
Expressing his love for riding motorcycles since a young age, Pandey appreciates the sense of control and freedom associated with his job. Having made Dubai his home for over 15 years, delivery riding has become an integral part of his life.
In Dubai, delivery riders are required to obtain a driver's qualification certificate from the RTA, in addition to holding a valid driving license. The certification process involves comprehensive practical and theoretical training covering defensive driving, safety requirements, and the periodic maintenance of bikes.
Muhammad Adnan Shafi Muhammad, another awardee working for Deliveroo, acknowledges the positive changes in the performance of delivery riders. He highlights the increased awareness of safety requirements and the efforts made by companies to provide appropriate uniforms based on weather conditions. The RTA enforces strict guidelines for licensing delivery companies, ensuring rider training, and specifying essential requirements such as delivery boxes and uniforms.
Most delivery riders work on a commission basis, without a fixed salary. Muhammad, earning between Dh3,000 and Dh4,000 monthly, expresses satisfaction with his work and pay. However, he raises a crucial point about the challenges posed by impatient customers. He emphasizes the need for understanding, noting that rushing delivery riders can lead to reckless and dangerous driving, potentially compromising safety.
Previous reports by Khaleej Times highlighted the pressure felt by riders to meet strict delivery timelines, often at the expense of safety. Riders fear the ire of customers who prioritize speed over safety. Muhammad urges customers to empathize with the challenges faced by delivery riders, emphasizing that a little understanding can go a long way in ensuring the safety of both riders and the community.
Both Pandey and Muhammad extend their gratitude to Dubai authorities for fostering a culture of appreciation and support for the delivery community. They also advise fellow riders to work hard and prioritize safety at all times, reinforcing the importance of a collective effort towards road safety in the bustling city.
By: Sahiba Suri
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