The UAE has a whole lot of restrictions in place to curb the spread of Coronavirus. However, with residents staying indoors it seems there is an increasing demand for online food deliveries. Well, we’re not surprised! With residents opting to dine within the comfort of their home, delivery apps have taken precautionary measures to ensure the public safety.
Delivery apps have now introduced contactless drivers, who will delivery you food to your home. Customers can select contactless delivery while ordering online, provide instructions for order, where it needs to be delivered, as well as select pre-payment and pre-tipping. This is done to minimize hand-to-hand contact.
In a statement, Zomato said: “Delivery partners are being sent various advisories on COVID-19 released by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) to keep them updated on the situation. We are especially emphasizing on best practices on how to handle food packages to ensure safe and hygienic delivery”.
“In case you want to avoid contact with our delivery partner, you can request Zomato Valet to leave your package at the door via delivery instructions on our app and the Zomato Valet will leave your package at the door safely,” it said. However, this will only work on prepaid orders.
Furthermore, Uber Eats has also announced that it will allow contactless delivery.
What Else?
The Dubai Municipality has put out a set of rules for residents who eat at restaurants. To begin with, customers and employees with flu symptoms will not be allowed to enter Dubai restaurants. According to a notice issued by the Health and Safety Department of the Dubai Municipality, all food establishments must adhere to the new law with immediate effect. Further, there will be regular checks to ensure the rules are followed.
Here are the new restaurant rules you must be aware of if you’re dining out in Dubai:
1. Restaurants should not sell more than 50 meals per order
2. Customers will not be allowed to be in the waiting area to avoid crowd
3. Tables must be placed at least two meters apart
4. Disposable cups and eating utensils must be used for serving food and beverages. However, restaurants that have automated dishwashing facilities can use regular cutlery
5. Tables must be wiped clean and disinfected after every customer leaves
6. Open buffets are closed permanently
7. Restaurants should increase takeaway and home delivery orders (with adequate safety precautions)