Pizza company hires UAE’s ‘first female food delivery driver’ in Dubai
A UAE pizza company claims to have hired the country’s first female food delivery driver.
Gift Soloman works as an assistant manager at Freedom Pizza, but also regularly delivers food to customers across Dubai. And it’s a part of the job she absolutely loves.
“When I’m on the road, I’m free,” she said.
“The best time for me to actually think is when I’m driving. It’s a time [when I can] think about everything.
“Delivering food is not just about delivering to people. It’s an opportunity to be part of someone’s day.”
Ian Ohan, founder and chief executive of Freedom Pizza, said he wanted to show the different personalities behind its delivery service.
“Behind every delicious meal is a beautiful person with a story you should know,” he said.
“We believe in every member of our team, so we invest in them and their futures.
“Human capability, spirit and brilliance should never be hidden. Women’s rights are human rights.”
Freedom Pizza has campaigned for greater safety measures for all delivery drivers in the UAE, calling for high-quality jackets and boots and well-maintained motorbikes.
Under UAE labour laws, employers must equip employees with adequate means of protection from injuries that might occur during work.
The takeaway company also recruits all of its drivers directly and, instead of paying them for every delivery, provides a monthly wage with benefits.
It also never penalises a driver for a late delivery and encourages them all to drive safely and follow protocols.
Originally from Nigeria, Ms Soloman moved to the Emirates five years ago to earn money to help support her family, but she’s now also leading the charge for women to join her and get on their bikes.
“Most drivers are driving for a reason,” she said.
“They might be working for their wives or their children. I am driving for my family. I am a daughter and I want to support them.
“But I really want to see more women join me.
“Instead of saying ‘Hey brother’ when I’m out on the Freedom bike, I want to say ‘Hey sister, I am doing it. You can too.’”
Freedom Pizza told The National it was not aware of any other organisation employing a female delivery driver and had “definitely conducted their due diligence before confirming this milestone”.