Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has confirmed the operational readiness of around 40 air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders ahead of the peak summer season.

The facilities, located across key areas including Hessa Street, Al Khawaneej, Al Barsha, Al Satwa, Oud Metha, Al Karama and Arjan, are designed to help riders stay safe and comfortable while working during the hotter months.

According to the RTA, maintenance and preparation works have been completed at all locations, with site selection based on delivery demand and operational data gathered in coordination with delivery companies.

The initiative forms part of Dubai’s wider efforts to improve road safety, support rider wellbeing and enhance working conditions within the rapidly growing delivery sector.

Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of RTA’s Licensing Agency, said traffic safety remains a top priority and that the authority has developed an integrated framework to regulate and support the delivery industry.

Facilities inside rest area

Each rest area includes air-conditioned seating, drinking water facilities and mobile phone charging stations. Depending on the location, the facilities can accommodate around 10 riders at a time and also provide dedicated parking spaces for delivery motorcycles.

The structures have been specially designed to reduce heat exposure and provide thermal insulation, allowing riders to take a break from the sun while remaining close to their delivery routes.

The move comes as Dubai continues to implement measures aimed at improving safety, comfort and quality of life for delivery riders, particularly during the summer months when temperatures can soar.

Citizens and residents across the UAE are being encouraged to take part in a national initiative designed to promote unity, belonging and appreciation for the country’s leadership.

Launched by Sandooq Al Watan, a non-profit organisation supported by Erth Zayed Philanthropies, the campaign invites participants to sign the UAE Pledge and Commitment and receive a personalised digital certificate.

What is the pledge?

The initiative centres on a digital pledge that allows participants to affirm their loyalty to the UAE and its leadership while expressing their commitment to the nation’s values and future.

The pledge highlights the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and recognises his role in supporting security, stability and national development. It also reflects the values of unity, coexistence and community responsibility that underpin life in the UAE.

Participants pledge to remain loyal to the country, uphold its values, live together in harmony and contribute to the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.

Why is it being launched?

According to organisers, the initiative aims to strengthen national identity and reinforce the shared values that bring together citizens and residents from diverse backgrounds.

The campaign also seeks to highlight the UAE’s reputation as a model for tolerance, peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.

How can residents take part?

Residents and citizens can sign the pledge online in just a few minutes through the official platform. Once completed, participants receive a personalised UAE Pledge and Commitment Certificate that can be downloaded and shared on social media.

Organisers hope the initiative will encourage wider community participation and foster a stronger sense of belonging across the country.

How to sign the pledge

Taking part is simple:

1. Visit pledge.ae
2. Read the pledge text
3. Sign it digitally
4. Download your personalised Certificate of Appreciation

The certificate can be shared on social media or kept as a personal reminder of your commitment to the UAE’s values and vision.

Officials say the initiative is designed to grow into a nationwide movement that combines digital engagement, community participation and public activities to strengthen social cohesion and national belonging across the country.

The UAE has announced new precautionary travel measures affecting nationals and travellers from three African countries as part of its efforts to strengthen preparedness against the Ebola virus.

In a joint statement, the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) confirmed the suspension of all new visas for nationals of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan from 1pm on June 6.

The temporary measure applies to all visa categories, including visit visas, and may be extended depending on developments. Authorities clarified that cargo flights between the UAE and the affected countries will continue to operate as normal.

The agencies also announced that travellers arriving from the three countries will not be permitted to enter the UAE, including those travelling through third countries. However, an exception will apply to individuals who have remained outside the listed countries for more than 21 consecutive days before arriving in the UAE.

Transit flight operations through UAE airports will not be affected by the new measures.

The announcement comes as the UAE continues to monitor developments related to the Ebola virus and implement preventive measures aimed at protecting public health and maintaining national readiness.

Authorities said they are working closely with local and international partners to assess the evolving situation and will continue reviewing risks while taking any necessary actions in line with approved health protocols and international standards.

The latest measures follow recent confirmation from the Ministry of Health and Prevention that no Ebola cases have been detected in the UAE.