Majid Al Futtaim focuses on inclusion with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme
Majid Al Futtaim, a shopping mall, communities, retail, and leisure specialist across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, has launched a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme across its physical locations.
This builds on Majid Al Futtaim’s broader Dare Today, Change Tomorrow sustainability strategy, which champions accessibility, diversity, equity, and inclusion across all its assets.
As part of this initiative, visitors to Majid Al Futtaim’s shopping malls, retail stores, entertainment venues, hotels, and communities will now have access to practical support through the internationally recognised Sunflower symbol, with the aim of ensuring a more inclusive and supportive experience for people of setermination, including those with non-visible conditions or unique support needs.
By choosing to wear a green lanyard or badge adorned with the Sunflower emblem, individuals can signal their needs in a simple way. From Carrefour to Ski Dubai to VOX Cinemas, frontline teams have been specially trained to recognise and respond to the symbol. Sunflower lanyards will be available at customer service desks.
Ahmed Galal Ismail, Chief Executive Officer, Majid Al Futtaim Holding, says: “Inclusion is not just a principle, it’s a promise. We are proud to launch the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme across our UAE assets, as a meaningful step forward in our journey to create environments where every individual feels recognised, respected, and empowered.”
“Not all needs are visible, but every guest deserves to feel confident and cared for. By equipping our teams with the right tools and training, we’re ensuring our destinations are not only accessible, but truly welcoming places where empathy leads the way and everyone can fully enjoy their experience, every time they visit.”
Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland Company, Middle East Partner of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, says: "We are thrilled to welcome Majid Al Futtaim and its wide range of assets into the Sunflower programme. This partnership is a testament to their dedication to accessibility and inclusion across the region.”
“From Carrefour to Ski Dubai, VOX Cinemas, and beyond, their teams are taking meaningful steps to ensure that every guest, regardless of ability, feels welcomed, supported, and valued. It is inspiring to see staff embrace this initiative with such enthusiasm, creating spaces where everyone can enjoy their experience with confidence and dignity. Being part of this program is not just about support; it’s about celebrating inclusivity and making a real difference in people’s lives."
The Sunflower programme will be visible across all high footfall Majid Al Futtaim destinations in the UAE by the end of the month.
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Inclusive retail was a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.
We received a record number of entries and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.
For a full rundown of all of the shortlisted entries, click here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
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