Food delivery apps have become part of everyday life, especially in fast-paced cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. While Deliveroo makes ordering simple, there’s a big difference between using it casually and using it like a pro. From getting your food faster to unlocking better deals and smarter savings, a few insider tips can completely upgrade your experience.

Whether you’re a frequent user or just getting started, this guide will help you master Deliveroo and make every order quicker, cheaper, and more satisfying.

1. Set Up Your Account for Speed From Day One

Before you even place your first order, take a few minutes to optimize your account. It saves time on every future order.

Start by adding your exact delivery address, including apartment or villa details, floor number, and any access instructions. Clear directions help riders avoid delays, especially in large residential buildings.

Next, save your payment methods in advance. Switching between cards or entering details at checkout slows things down—saved payments mean faster confirmation and quicker dispatch.

Finally, turn on push notifications. These keep you updated on order status, rider arrival, and exclusive offers you might otherwise miss.

2. Order at the Right Time for Faster Delivery

Timing matters more than most people realize. Ordering during peak hours—such as lunch (1–3 PM) or dinner (7–9 PM)—often means longer prep and delivery times.

For faster service:

• Order slightly before peak hours
  
  
• Avoid late-night rushes on weekends
  
  
• Choose off-peak times when restaurants are less busy
  

If you’re ordering for a meeting, movie night, or gathering, placing your order 15–20 minutes earlier than needed is a pro move.

3. Choose Restaurants Strategically

Not all restaurants deliver at the same speed. Deliveroo often shows estimated delivery times, which are incredibly useful if you know how to read them.

To get your food faster:

• Pick restaurants closer to your location
  
  
• Look for venues labeled as “Fastest Delivery”
  
  
• Avoid places with extremely long prep times during rush hours
  

Smaller menus and casual dining spots usually prepare food faster than large restaurants with complex dishes.

4. Use Filters Like a Power User

Deliveroo’s filters are more powerful than they look. Instead of endlessly scrolling, use filters to find exactly what you want—fast.

Helpful filters include:

• Delivery time
  
  
• Price range
  
  
• Offers & discounts
  
  
• Dietary preferences
  
  
• Rating
  

Using filters not only saves time but also helps you discover deals you might otherwise miss.

5. Master Deliveroo Deals and Promotions

One of the biggest perks of using Deliveroo like a pro is knowing where the savings are.

Check the “Offers” section regularly. Restaurants often run limited-time deals such as:

• Free delivery
  
  
• Percentage discounts
  
  
• Buy-one-get-one offers
  
  
• Reduced minimum order values
  

These promotions change frequently, so browsing deals before deciding what to eat can save you a surprising amount over time.

6. Is Deliveroo Plus Worth It? Absolutely—If You Order Often

If you order more than a few times a month, Deliveroo Plus can be a game changer.

Benefits typically include:

• Free delivery on eligible orders
  
  
• Lower service fees
  
  
• Exclusive member offers
  

Frequent users can easily recover the subscription cost within a few orders. It’s especially useful for families, busy professionals, or anyone who relies on delivery during the workweek.

7. Use Scheduled Orders to Stay Ahead

Planning ahead is one of the most underrated Deliveroo features.

Scheduled orders allow you to:

• Avoid peak-time delays
  
  
• Ensure food arrives exactly when needed
  
  
• Reduce last-minute stress
  

This is ideal for office lunches, dinner parties, or busy evenings when you don’t want to think about cooking.

8. Track Your Order Like a Pro

Deliveroo’s live tracking feature isn’t just for curiosity—it helps you plan better.

Once your order is confirmed, you can:

• Monitor preparation time
  
  
• See when the rider is nearby
  
  
• Be ready to receive the order immediately
  

Being available when the rider arrives prevents delays and ensures food arrives hot and fresh.

9. Optimize Your Delivery Instructions

Clear instructions make a huge difference. Adding small details such as:

• Landmark directions
  
  
• Gate codes
  
  
• Preferred drop-off spot
  

These tips reduce back-and-forth calls and speed up delivery, especially in high-rise buildings or gated communities.

10. Save Your Favourite Orders and Restaurants

If you find a meal or restaurant you love, save it.

This lets you:

• Reorder in seconds
  
  
• Skip browsing entirely
  
  
• Maintain consistency during busy days
  

Pros know that repeat ordering is the fastest way to get food with minimal effort.

11. Order Smart for Groups

Ordering for multiple people? Deliveroo makes group orders easier if you plan properly.

Tips for group orders:

• Stick to one cuisine to simplify prep
  
  
• Choose restaurants experienced with large orders
  
  
• Order slightly earlier than usual
  

Some restaurants even offer family meals or combo deals that reduce cost per person.

12. Explore Beyond Food

Many users don’t realize Deliveroo also offers grocery and essentials delivery in select areas.

You can order:

• Snacks and drinks
  
  
• Convenience store items
  
  
• Household essentials
  

This is perfect for last-minute needs or when you want everything delivered in one go.

13. Rate and Review—It Helps You Too

Leaving ratings and reviews improves your future experience. Deliveroo uses this data to recommend better restaurants and surface reliable options.

Plus, your feedback helps improve service quality across the platform.

14. Keep an Eye on Seasonal Promotions

During events like Ramadan, weekends, or major holidays, Deliveroo often introduces special campaigns and exclusive deals.

Checking the app during these times can unlock:

• Limited-time discounts
  
  
• Free delivery promotions
  
  
• Restaurant-specific offers
  

Eat Smarter, Not Harder

Using Deliveroo like a pro isn’t about ordering more; it’s about ordering smarter. With the right timing, filters, deals, and features, you can enjoy faster deliveries, better prices, and a smoother overall experience. Once you apply these tips, you’ll spend less time waiting, less money on fees, and more time enjoying great food, exactly how delivery should be. If you’re already using Deliveroo, try just a few of these strategies on your next order. You’ll notice the difference instantly