In a significant stride towards inclusivity, Abu Dhabi’s Zayed National Museum has become the first cultural institution in the Middle East to implement the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme.

This initiative is designed to discreetly assist individuals with hidden disabilities, such as chronic pain, autism, anxiety, and dementia, by allowing them to signal that they might need additional support during their visit.

The museum aims to have up to 80% of its staff trained in this programme by its public opening in December 2025. This training will equip museum personnel across all departments to provide thoughtful assistance to those wearing the Sunflower lanyard or pin, which signifies a visitor's potential need for extra care.

Visitors can easily obtain these lanyards at information or ticketing desks within the museum. The initiative reflects a broader commitment by the Zayed National Museum to ensure an accessible experience for everyone, aligning with the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's legacy of compassion and tolerance.

Dr. Peter Magee, Director of Zayed National Museum, emphasized that accessibility is integral to every aspect of the museum's operations-from programming and material choices to architectural design and curatorial practices. “It’s not something we add on; it’s something we embed,” he stated.

Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland-the partner supporting this endeavor-remarked on creating an accessible cultural landmark: “Every feature has been co-designed with input from communities it serves, ensuring dignity and ease for every visitor.”

The museum is also committed to providing various accessibility features including calm rooms, quiet hours, wheelchair-accessible routes and lifts, as well as sensory maps and kits. These enhancements aim to accommodate diverse visitors such as People of Determination and senior citizens with dementia.

Nassra Al Buainain, Director of Learning & Public Engagement at Zayed National Museum noted: "True accessibility begins with listening." She highlighted that developing access programs involved active dialogue with community members to ensure relevance and supportiveness.

Notably beneficial for neurodivergent visitors are tailored sensory tours and workshops offered by the museum. Additionally, Emirati sign language tours led by certified guides will be available along with Braille resources developed in collaboration with Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) for visually impaired guests.

Set in Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum stands out as a cornerstone institution dedicated to preserving and sharing UAE’s rich history and culture through inclusive initiatives like this one embraced today.