Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has introduced the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, and Etihad Museum, strengthening accessibility and inclusion across its cultural and heritage sites.
The initiative makes Dubai Culture the first cultural
institution in the emirate to adopt the internationally recognised programme,
which supports people with non-visible disabilities and conditions, including
autism, chronic pain, anxiety and memory impairments.
The programme allows visitors to discreetly signal that they
may need additional assistance while maintaining their privacy.
As part of the rollout, Dubai Culture trained visitor
services teams at both museums to recognise and respond appropriately to the
needs of visitors with hidden disabilities.
Visitors seeking additional support can request Sunflower
pins from the Visitor Centre, Information Desk and ticketing counters at the
two museums.
Dr Hana Ayoub, Promotions Section Manager within Dubai
Culture’s Sales Department, said: "As the first cultural institution in
Dubai to adopt the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, we continue to
advance the development of the emirate's cultural ecosystem while enhancing the
quality of creative experiences across its assets. This milestone reflects our
commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive cultural environments that
provide equal opportunities for every member of the community to access and
engage with cultural experiences.”
She added: "This achievement builds on our ongoing
efforts to promote accessibility and inclusivity across our heritage
destinations. We are committed to ensuring that Al Shindagha Museum and Etihad
Museum serve as leading examples in adopting international best practices that
support these values, reinforcing their role as vibrant educational and
creative destinations and interactive community spaces that welcome everyone
and enrich their cultural and learning journeys. Initiatives such as this further
strengthen the role of culture as a bridge that connects communities."
The programme supports Dubai’s Quality of Life Strategy and
the ‘My Community...A Place for Everyone’ initiative, which aims to strengthen
the emirate’s position as an inclusive destination for People of Determination.
Dubai Culture has also previously received Autism-Friendly
Certification accreditations from the Dubai Autism Center for its cultural
facilities, recognising staff preparedness and facilities and services designed
to support People of Determination. -TradeArabia News Service