As summer temperatures climb across Qatar, local super app Snoonu is bringing back its “No Riders Under the Sun” initiative, a seasonal program designed to protect its delivery fleet from the region’s extreme heat. The company will pause motorcycle deliveries during the hottest hours of the day, shifting all orders to a fleet of air-conditioned cars.
Quick Facts
- Initiative runs from June 1 to September 15.
- Bike deliveries are suspended between 10:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
- An air-conditioned car fleet will handle all orders during this period.
A Calculated Move for Rider Welfare
First launched in 2021, the program directly addresses the harsh working conditions delivery riders face when temperatures can surpass 50°C. By sidelining its motorcycle fleet during peak heat, Snoonu ensures its riders are not exposed to dangerous conditions, allowing them to operate in a temperature-controlled environment.
The decision reflects a core value for the company, even if it introduces operational and financial hurdles.
“Humanity comes before business,” said Hamad Al Hajri, Founder and CEO of Snoonu.
“We live in the desert with temperatures exceeding 50 degrees. In addition to that, bike riders wear helmets and heavy clothing while riding metal-framed motorcycles that reflect heat. It can feel like being inside an oven,” he explained.
Setting a Precedent in Qatar
Al Hajri acknowledges that the initiative has previously led to financial losses for the company. However, he frames it as a long-term investment in his team and public trust.
“Although Snoonu experienced some business and financial losses during the campaign, we gained the trust of our employees and the appreciation of the public,” he stated.
Snoonu’s program was ahead of its time, launching a full year before Qatar’s Ministry of Labor introduced nationwide regulations in 2022 to restrict outdoor work during extreme heat.
The founder’s commitment is also personal, stemming from his own past experience working outdoors in difficult weather.
“I worked under these kinds of conditions more than two decades ago while serving as a technical assistant offshore. It was extremely challenging, and I do not want our employees to go through the same experience,” Al Hajri added.
About Snoonu
Founded in Qatar, Snoonu has become one of the country’s key technology platforms. The super app offers a range of services, including delivery, e-commerce, and other digital solutions, as it continues to expand its market presence.
Source: Arab Founders
