Food delivery riders in Bahrain rush to distribute flood of Iftar orders on time

TDT | Manama    

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by Zahra Ayaz

Food delivery riders in Bahrain are defying the challenges of fasting during Ramadan while rushing to deliver iftar orders to customers’ doors. Even amidst the flood of orders during the holy month, these dedicated riders remain committed to their task.

The Daily Tribune had the opportunity to speak with several riders from leading delivery service companies, shedding light on their experiences. Irshad Mohammed, one of these riders, skillfully navigates through bustling streets to ensure that orders are fulfilled within the stipulated time frame set by his company.

Mohammed, who completes around 10 deliveries daily during Ramadan, shared his perspective: “I don’t experience any fatigue during Ramadan because my mind is productively occupied when working. I genuinely enjoy my job and try to do it well. Ramadan is significant as it’s a time for prayer and introspection. It’s our responsibility to fulfil our duties.”

Breaking fast

When asked about how he manages to break his fast during iftar time while still delivering food, Mohd explained, “I stop my bike at a safe spot to break my fast with dates and water. I always keep a few dates and a bottle of water with me. Later, after completing my deliveries, I visit nearby Shawarma restaurants to satisfy my hunger.”

Abdulrahman, another delivery rider, shared his initial struggles, stating, “I have to do my job even if I am fasting. During the first two days, it was challenging to find a suitable spot to break my fast. However, people are really kind, and when orders are close to iftar, they often offer me dates, fruits, or water.”

He further added, “I usually prefer midnight deliveries because, at that time, I don’t have to worry about opening my fast. During Ramadan, most people place their orders just before Maghrib and at midnight.” Expressing his desire to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with his family next year, Abdulrahman mentioned that this year he would have to connect with them over a call.

Strategy

Nouman Malik, another delivery rider, emphasised the importance of delivering food promptly, especially during the evening hours when traffic is heavy and people rely on them to open their fasts.

He revealed his strategy, saying, “I always keep a sandwich and dates with me to break my fast during working hours. Last Wednesday, near the Juffair signal on the red light, a group of children were distributing Iftar meals, and they gave me one.”

Acknowledging the challenges of fasting during humid weather, Malik expressed his contentment with fulfilling his job responsibilities, stating, “Although the weather is changing and fasting during humidity presents challenges, it’s part of our job, and we are happy with it.”

As food delivery riders in Bahrain continue to serve the community during Ramadan, their dedication and resilience shine through, reminding us of the spirit of unity and devotion that characterizes this holy month.