Dubai: DFF, Amazon launch gig economy delivery pilot

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Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) and Amazon UAE have launched a new programme under the emirate’s “Sandbox Dubai” initiative that will allow individuals to deliver Amazon packages on foot, creating opportunities within the gig economy.

The pilot, part of Sandbox Dubai’s gig economy sector, was approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai and Chairman of DFF’s board of trustees.

The initiative aims to shape regulations for new economic models while offering flexible income opportunities for individuals and small businesses.

Dubai Future Foundation said the programme could reduce reliance on delivery vehicles in densely populated areas, helping to cut traffic congestion and carbon emissions in line with the emirate’s sustainability goals.

Amazon, DFF pilot to boost gig economy and entrepreneurship

Ronaldo Mouchawar, vice president of Amazon Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, said the company would use its “global expertise, scale, and technology to create new possibilities that boost the gig economy and entrepreneurship, as well as promote economic growth through greater flexibility for individuals and businesses.”

Khalfan Belhoul, chief executive of DFF, said the collaboration with Amazon supports the emirate’s efforts to “develop the legislative environment supporting innovation” and strengthen Dubai’s competitiveness.

Sandbox Dubai is part of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which seeks to double the emirate’s economy over the next decade and position it among the world’s top three global cities.

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