I was returning from one evening walk around the Al Mamoura Area when I noticed this brightly lit corner. There was still time so I decided to check it out, and lo and behold it's another Riders' Hub!
A few months ago, I already shared this thoughtful and timely project that recognizes the needs of the delivery riders in Abu Dhabi.
This initiative by the Abu Dhabi government through the Department of Municipalities and Transport certainly provides relief to the delivery riders, particularly in the scorching summer months when they have to endure very harsh weather conditions. It was developed in collaboration with government entities, private sector, and non-profit organizations with the goal of improving the working conditions of these delivery riders.
Honestly, the resting area I shared a few months back was the first time I learned about this, and so far the only one in the city I know of. There are still many areas where the riders just take refuge under the shade of big ghaf trees that line the roadside.
Likewise, the Delivery Riders' Hub on the other side of Al Mamoura (at the right) is not airconditioned, although it is made of wooden slats that allow for better air circulation. It may not be enough during the peak of the harsh desert summer, but it can still provide shade and shelter.
This new rider's hub is on the other side of the same block of Al Mamoura, facing the big parking lot near Al Mamoura Park. These two hubs are parallel to each other. It stands out at the time since it was nighttime. One can not miss it with its brightly lit interior and the big block letters that spell - RIDERS' HUB.
Since I was already there, I checked it out and found that this one is also made of wood (and glass) but is airconditioned. I noticed some small coffee tables and seats inside and there were even two riders inside at the time.
There were pigeonholes where the riders could keep their mobile phones while charging. I also saw a big cooler, maybe to keep drinks cold or whatever, although I can only assume that.
Outside, there are a couple of fountains for drinking water. There is a dispenser if one wants to just refill his bottle or a snout for drinking.
Adding to the aesthetic look of this structure are the paintings that surround the walls. These are paintings relevant to the Arab culture and architecture, too. One is of a wind tower and another is a painting that shows a woman reading from a piece of paper.
Like last time, I did not stay for a long time, but just enough to take some pictures, since there were people resting inside and I do not want to disturb them.
I was just happy to note that there is another place for the riders to take refuge in - one that is much better than the last. Hopefully, we see more of these around the city in the near future.
馃搷 Abu Dhabi, 馃嚘馃嚜
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