Dubai Culture Rolls Out Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme at Al Shindagha and Etihad Museums

# What happened

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has implemented the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Al Shindagha Museum and Etihad Museum. By adopting the scheme, Dubai Culture is the first cultural institution in Dubai to introduce this internationally recognised initiative across its cultural heritage sites.

# Why it matters

The Sunflower programme provides a simple, discreet way for visitors with non-visible disabilities to indicate they may need extra support. Non-visible or "hidden" disabilities include autism, chronic pain, anxiety, and memory impairments. The pin helps staff identify visitors who may require different handling, extra time, or a quieter experience without asking them to disclose personal medical details.

# at the museums

Staff at both museums received training aligned with the programme's standards. Training focuses on recognising the Sunflower cue and responding appropriately to diverse visitor needs. Visitors who would like assistance can request Sunflower pins at Visitor Centres, Information Desks, and Ticketing Counters. The presence of trained staff and accessible points of contact aims to make exhibitions and programmes more navigable for people of determination.

# Context within Dubai Culture's accessibility work

Dr Hana Mohamed Ayoub, Promotions Section Manager within the Sales Department at Dubai Culture, said the adoption advances the emirate's cultural ecosystem and enhances creative experiences across its assets. She described Al Shindagha Museum and Etihad Museum as examples of cultural destinations that adopt international best practices for accessibility and community engagement.

# Practical details for visitors

• Where to get a Sunflower pin: Visitor Centre, Information Desk, Ticketing Counter at each museum.
• What the pin does: Signals discreetly that a visitor may need additional assistance, time, or a modified interaction.
• Who it helps: People with non-visible disabilities such as autism, chronic pain, anxiety, memory impairments, and similar conditions.

# What to expect next

The programme's local launch at these two museums creates a baseline for potential expansion across other cultural venues in Dubai. It also complements staff readiness and facility measures already certified through the Autism-Friendly programme. Ongoing monitoring and staff training will likely determine how the scheme is scaled and adapted across Dubai Culture's broader network.

# Bottom line

The Sunflower programme adds a low-friction, recognisable tool to improve visitor access at two prominent museums. It does not replace existing accessibility credentials but broadens practical support for visitors whose disabilities are not immediately visible. For visitors seeking assistance, the museums provide multiple access points to request the Sunflower pin and interact with trained staff.