In a significant move towards enhancing inclusivity within the hospitality industry, Hospitality Management Holding (HMH) has announced the implementation of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program across its managed properties in the UAE. This initiative, widely recognized for its role in fostering understanding and support for individuals with non-visible disabilities, is now a part of the guest experience at select HMH-managed hotels in the region.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program was created to address the challenges faced by individuals whose disabilities are not immediately apparent. For many, these challenges include a lack of understanding and support from others, simply because their condition is not visible. The Sunflower program provides a discreet yet effective way for individuals to signal that they may need additional assistance or patience. By choosing to wear the Sunflower, guests can communicate their needs in a non-intrusive manner, ensuring they receive the support they deserve.
Since its launch in 2016, the Sunflower program has garnered global recognition, with businesses from various sectors—including retail, transport, and healthcare—joining the initiative. HMH Hotels’ adoption of this program in the UAE marks a significant step in the hospitality sector’s contribution to creating a more inclusive society.
The sunflower was chosen as the symbol for this program due to its associations with happiness, positivity, and strength—qualities that resonate with HMH’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for all guests. By integrating the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower across their UAE hotels, including the Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel, Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, Coral Dubai Deira Hotel, and ECOS Dubai Hotel at Al Furjan, HMH is setting a new standard in hospitality, ensuring that guests with hidden disabilities are acknowledged, respected, and given the best possible experience during their stay.
Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland, exclusive partner of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the Middle East Region, said:
“We are excited to welcome Hospitality Management Holding (HMH) to the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. The Sunflower was created as an awarenesses tool to improve the everyday experiences for people with non-visible disabilities, ensuring that they will be met with patience, understanding and kindness when they are out and about. The employees of HMH group received the training to recognize and support Sunflower wearers in their hotels to receive additional help or a little more time they may need.”
Haytham Abdelaziz, Director of Operations at HMH, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: “At HMH, we are dedicated to ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and supported. The adoption of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity and understanding. By recognizing and accommodating the unique needs of our guests, we are not just enhancing their experience but also setting a new benchmark in the hospitality industry.”
With this initiative, HMH continues to demonstrate its dedication to inclusivity, making it clear that every guest, regardless of their needs, will be supported throughout their visit.
About HMH:
Founded in 2003 in Dubai, HMH – Hospitality Management Holding is a fully integrated hotel management company that prides itself for being the largest operator in the dry sector within the region. HMH provides hotel owners and developers a broad spectrum of world-class management solutions with five distinct, yet complementary, hotel brands catering to varied market segments from luxury to lifestyle. These include Bahi Hotels & Resorts, Coral Hotels & Resorts, Corp Hotels, EWA Hotel Apartments and ECOS Hotels. HMH’s strategic expansion in the Middle East and North Africa has been successful in unlocking a world of opportunities while creating value for its stakeholders, associates, staff members and customers. The existing portfolio is located in some of the most desirable destinations across the MENA region, with a pipeline of hotels under development to grow HMH’s regional footprint even further.
For more information about HMH, please visit http://www.hmhhotelgroup.com/
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the UAE:
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is an initiative that has been embraced across the UAE to support individuals with hidden disabilities. By wearing a Sunflower lanyard, badge, or wristband, people with non-visible disabilities can discreetly signal that they may need additional support, assistance, or a little extra time in various public settings. This initiative fosters greater understanding and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their disability, can navigate public spaces with dignity and ease.
Whether in airports, shopping malls, or workplaces, the Sunflower symbol is recognized and respected, making the UAE a more accessible and compassionate community for
