Dubai - UAE
In a step that reflects the emirate’s commitment to consolidating its position as a friendly city for all, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has become the first cultural institution in the emirate to adopt the “Sunflower for Invisible Disabilities” program, by implementing it in the Shindagha and Etihad Museums, to open the doors of heritage to segments that may sometimes feel reluctance to visit museums.

Cultural inclusivity redefines access

Disabilities of people of determination are not limited to what the eye sees; There are invisible challenges such as autism, chronic pain, anxiety, and poor memory, which are targeted by the global program. Visitors to the two museums can now request a “sunflower” pin from the information centers, as an indirect indication of their need for support or additional time, while fully preserving their privacy, in an approach that takes into consideration everyone’s feelings. The initiative comes in the context of Dubai's quality of life strategy and the "My Community... A Place for Everyone" initiative.

Qualifying and empowering cadres

To ensure an integrated experience, the Authority was keen to train the visitor services team at the two museums in accordance with the program standards, to enable them to identify the needs of this group and interact with them efficiently and professionally, which turns the cultural visit into an easy and enriching trip for everyone.

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Commenting on this achievement, Dr. Hanaa Mohammed Ayoub, Director of the Promotion Department in the Sales Department at Dubai Culture, said:

“As the first cultural institution in Dubai to implement this program, we continue to develop the cultural system and improve the quality of creative experiences. This achievement reflects our commitment to creating a welcoming cultural climate that guarantees equal opportunities for access to cultural events, and confirms our keenness for the Shindagha and Etihad Museums to be role models in applying the best global practices that support inclusivity.”

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An opportunity for Arab tourists and investors

For Arab tourists, visiting Dubai museums is no longer limited to those interested in history only, but has become a comprehensive experience that takes into account everyone, especially families that include people of determination, which makes the Emirati cultural destination more attractive and attractive for family tourism. At the investor level, this trend enhances the competitiveness of the cultural sector in Dubai, and opens horizons for investment in supportive tourism services and supporting infrastructure for people of determination, in a promising market that keeps pace with the latest international standards, and reflects maturity in the management of tourist and cultural destinations.