HungerStation knocks the scorching Saudi desert summer heat out, with Ai-powered route navigation system.
The Shaded Route
A pioneering navigation system designed to help delivery riders navigate in the shade in Saudi Arabia's relentless desert heat.
Client
- HungerStation
Office
- Saudi Arabia

Ahmad Chatila
Director of brand, HungerStation
Firas Ghannam
Executive Creative Director, VML
Saudi Arabia is defined by its extreme hot desert weather, particularly during summer days, when temperatures can soar up to a staggering 50°C.
As a result, people tend to rely heavily on food delivery apps during the day, completely avoiding the midday sun.
Unfortunately, the health and safety of the delivery riders working under the scorching sun is often overlooked. How can HungerStation support and retain riders during the hot summer days of Saudi?
Driving in the shade can make the air feel 10 to 15°C cooler. Navigating through shaded spots can substantially reduce heat exposure, enhancing rider comfort and safety while also preserving the freshness of the food.
Introducing "The Shaded Route", a pioneering navigation system, integrated into the HungerStation app designed to shield riders from the relentless desert heat.
This innovative technology strengthened the bond between HungerStation and its riders, positioning the brand as a leader in rider welfare. It also attracted potential new riders, boosting HungerStation’s reputation as a tech-driven, rider-centered company. The initiative generated excitement among customers as well, boosting engagement and transaction rates during peak times (12 - 4pm)—especially as riders could now better preserve the freshness of food during deliveries.
Results:
+8% rider applications and registrations.
+20% rider retention.
+15% rider satisfaction.
+20% peak-time deliveries (12–4 PM).
+3K active riders using The Shaded Route daily. 16K Shaded Route rides recorded per day. +114K kilometers covered in shade every day.
The Shaded Route also garnered widespread media attention, sparking discussions about the future of food delivery and inspiring other brands to consider innovative, human-focused solutions.
HungerStation has permanently transformed its operations and also established itself as a pioneer in the food delivery industry.
Launched in September 2024, this Al-powered tech tracks the sun's position in real-time and meticulously analyzes Riyadh's urban landscape; pinpointing trees, tunnels, towers, bridges and even cloud coverage. It then constructs the route with the most shade to maximise riders comfort and safety during delivery. To maintain efficiency without compromising the speed of delivery, the tech only suggests routes that are within 10% of the fastest delivery time. Today, HungerStation has permanently transformed its operations and is expanding the technology to more Saudi cities, reaching thousands of riders.

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Awards
Dubai Lynx 2025
Health & Wellness - Health & Wellness Tech
Gold
Dubai Lynx 2025
Brand Experience & Activation - Tech-led Brand Exprience
Bronze
Clios 2025
Public Relations - Employee Engagament
Bronze