Saudi Arabia has inaugurated its first dedicated rest area for app-based delivery drivers, marking a milestone in improving working conditions. The initiative targets one of the Kingdom’s fastest-growing sectors while elevating urban aesthetics.
Located in Al Khobar, Eastern Province, the facility addresses haphazard parking and poor waiting conditions. Eng. Abdulaziz Al Rumaih, Head of Al Khobar Municipality’s Building Permits Department, spearheaded the project.
Furthermore, Al Rumaih explained the project emerged after observing delivery drivers parking motorcycles in disabled spots or sidewalks. Many drivers previously rested on streets under harsh weather.
Smart Design Meets Driver Comfort
The facility blends modern architecture ensuring comfort and efficiency. It offers air conditioning, seating, lighting, and direct tech links to restaurants. Al Rumaih emphasized its role as a model for future sites, adding “This model will expand to malls and major centers soon.”
Authorities plan to license 100+ similar centers nationwide. These hubs aim to streamline operations in Saudi Arabia’s booming delivery sector, which hit 290 million orders in 2023.
Riyadh dominated delivery activity, recording 45.3% growth last year. Makkah followed with 22.7%, while Eastern Province and Madinah saw 15% and 4.3% growth respectively.
With over 200 million deliveries in 2023, the Kingdom continues prioritizing sector modernization. The new rest zones promise safer, organized spaces for drivers supporting Saudi Arabia’s digital economy. It also sets a standard for future developments in the sector.
