Not only restaurants, but also fruit shops and pastry shops have become 24-hour operations
The city of Erbil offers a wide range of delivery services, largely due to its density and high demand for goods. As a result of their hectic schedules and congested streets, many individuals frequently rely on delivery services.
Erbil is renowned for its round-the-clock activity. Delivery motorcyclists operate on the streets from midnight until dawn, ensuring that food reaches people at all hours. The city’s busy streets make it difficult for many to go out to eat, leading to an increase in takeout orders. In addition to food, delivery services now offer medicine, household supplies, and other daily necessities. These services have provided employment opportunities for many, particularly young people who use them as a source of income. The governor of Erbil has collaborated with the Erbil Traffic Directorate to regulate the growing number of delivery services.
Delivery motorcycles are a common sight in Erbil. There are strict rules governing their use, including requirements for name registration, training, and noise control. The demand for delivery services continues to rise, and many businesses have organized themselves to handle this efficiently, resulting in few disputes or issues.
According to many business owners, the peace, security, and prosperity of Erbil have fostered a thriving delivery market. Nowadays, many restaurant owners focus on delivery services, preparing food specifically for delivery rather than serving it in-house. This shift allows them to reduce overhead costs on things like air conditioning, furniture, and additional staff, streamlining their operations through delivery.
“Delivery services in Erbil expanded during the coronavirus pandemic, when people couldn’t go outside, so the demand for delivery naturally flourished,” Erbil Provincial Council Director Ali Rashid told the Kurdish Globe. Now, a large number of delivery motorcycles operate around the clock, contributing to Erbil’s reputation as a “living city,” where stores and markets remain open 24/7. Previously, only eateries stayed open late, but now Erbil’s fruit and vegetable markets, as well as pastry shops, offer late-night delivery services, remaining open into the early morning hours.
He added, “In addition to that, this has created many job opportunities for young people who are passionate about their work.”