Today's Edition
A.SREENIVASA REDDY (ABU DHABI)
An overwhelming majority of users of deliveries by motorcycle riders are satisfied with the service, especially regarding their timely arrival, according to a survey conducted by YouGov.
A total of 1,031 people were interviewed in the survey commissioned by Al Wathba Insurance jointly with RoadSafetyUAE over various of aspects of delivery service and the attitude of delivery riders.
The findings reveal that 85% of delivery customers agree that their orders usually arrive on time and within their expectations, with an additional 80% indicating no issue with delays of up to two minutes and 64% tolerating delays of up to five minutes. These numbers underline strong public acceptance of motorcycle deliveries and reflect the reliability of the service. “These numbers are of fundamental importance from a road safety perspective. Providing riders with an additional two to five minutes for deliveries could significantly enhance their ability to adopt safer riding behaviours,” said Thomas Edelmann, Founder and Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE.
The survey also highlights high usage rates of motorcycle delivery services in the UAE. For food deliveries, 63% of respondents use these services daily, multiple times per week, or at least once a week, while 46% use motorcycles for non-food deliveries such as groceries and pharmaceuticals with similar frequency. Only 17% of respondents rarely or never use these services for food deliveries. High numbers of their usage indicate their integral role in the everyday life of the residents in the UAE.
Importantly, the relationship between customers and delivery riders is largely positive. A total of 60% of respondents state they encourage riders to prioritise safety, and 62% report tipping riders or offering refreshments, particularly during hot summer months. Furthermore, 71% are satisfied with the appearance and condition of riders, and 80% are happy with the cleanliness of the delivery box. However, less than half (46%) of respondents feel that riders appear relaxed about their jobs, and only 58% believe that delivery brands adequately care for their riders.
The survey also touched on rider behaviour and public perception. While 44% agree that delivery riders appear to be in a hurry, only 27% perceive their driving as aggressive, and just 19% consider them a nuisance on the roads. In cases of observed aggressive driving, only 28% of respondents express tolerance for such behaviour, emphasising the importance of safe riding practices.
Edelmann said, “The need and acceptance of motorcycle deliveries in the UAE is undisputed. Customers’ willingness to accept minor delays and their positive interactions with riders should encourage delivery brands to prioritise rider welfare and safety. Taking time pressure out of the system will benefit both riders and the brands they represent.”
The research was conducted in December 2024 and underscores the growing importance of motorcycle deliveries in the UAE. Delivery companies and stakeholders are encouraged to use these insights to enhance safety and foster better working conditions for riders, Edelmann concluded.
Abu Dhabi and Dubai have implemented several measures to ensure the welfare of delivery riders in recent times. In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) launched the Delivery Riders Hub initiative, providing shaded waiting areas, comfortable seating, and other essential amenities to support riders. Additionally, DMT has introduced plans to create dedicated parking spaces for delivery riders, enabling them to carry out their duties safely and efficiently.
Similarly, Dubai has unveiled plans to establish air-conditioned rest areas equipped with all necessary amenities. In a statement released in August, the Roads and Transport Authority announced the completion of 20 air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders across several key locations, with a total of 40 rest areas planned.
