Yas Mall Strengthens Accessibility as First Regional Retail Destination to Implement Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme
In a significant advancement for accessibility in the Middle East, Yas Mall has become the first retail destination in the region to fully integrate the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. This initiative aims to provide essential support for visitors with non-visible disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive shopping experience.
Strategic Collaboration for Accessibility
The successful implementation of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Yas Mall is the result of a collaborative effort involving Aldar, the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, and Topland. This partnership underscores a commitment to embedding accessibility into the operational framework of the mall. The Zayed Authority for People of Determination serves as the local enabling partner, while Topland, based in the UK, acts as the exclusive Middle East partner for the programme.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme is designed to enhance customer experience by training all customer-facing staff to recognize the sunflower lanyard, which signifies that a visitor may require additional support. This training ensures that staff are equipped to provide tailored assistance, thereby fostering an inclusive environment for all visitors.
Comprehensive Staff Training and Rollout
Achieving full membership in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme necessitates adherence to established international criteria, which includes extensive staff training and operational integration. Yas Mall has successfully trained 100% of its staff, with plans for a broader rollout to tenants and other Aldar properties. This comprehensive approach aims to create a consistent and supportive atmosphere across all Aldar destinations.
In a further commitment to accessibility, Aldar has commissioned the production of 10,000 sunflower lanyards, which are being manufactured by People of Determination at the Zayed Authority’s printing workshop. These lanyards will be distributed throughout Aldar’s assets, reinforcing the long-term transformation towards greater accessibility.
Yas Mall’s Role in the Inclusive City Initiative
Yas Mall serves as a pivotal platform for scaling inclusive initiatives across Aldar’s diverse portfolio. This initiative aligns with Yas Island’s broader ambition to become an Inclusive City, contributing to the UAE‘s national agenda for accessibility and inclusion. The Department of Community Development leads this wider inclusion strategy, emphasizing the importance of creating environments that welcome all individuals.
Salwa Al Maflahi, Executive Director of Sustainability and Community Outreach at Aldar, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that it marks a crucial step in their accessibility journey. The partnership with local and international organizations aims to embed inclusive practices across all Aldar destinations, contributing to the UAE’s vision for a more accessible society.
Leadership in Disability Inclusion
His Excellency Abdulla Ismail Al Kamali, Executive Director for the People of Determination Sector at the Zayed Authority, affirmed that the implementation of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme at Yas Mall enhances Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a leader in disability inclusion. He emphasized that the initiative reflects a developmental approach prioritizing quality of life and human empowerment.
The Zayed Authority is committed to expanding this initiative throughout the emirate, collaborating with strategic partners to foster a more aware and inclusive community culture. This effort supports national ambitions for a sustainable and inclusive society.
Empowering People of Determination
Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland Group, expressed pride in supporting Yas Mall’s inclusivity efforts through the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. The lanyards produced by People of Determination not only empower their talents but also enhance the experience for visitors with non-visible disabilities.
Globally, approximately one in six individuals lives with a disability, many of which are non-visible. Initiatives like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme play a crucial role in raising awareness and understanding in public spaces. Aldar’s commitment to advancing more inclusive and accessible destinations aligns with national priorities and is executed in collaboration with key partners.
For further details on this initiative, refer to the original reporting source: Zawya.
Keep reading for the latest cybersecurity developments, threat intelligence and breaking updates from across the Middle East.
