Hilton announces the launch of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the UAE – becoming the first global hospitality operator in the country to implement the programme across its operating hotels and corporate offices.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower enables people of determination with a non-apparent disability, such as anxiety, chronic pain, or autism, to choose to wear a Sunflower lanyard to indicate to others that they may need extra support. Hilton is supporting this work across its portfolio of hotels and corporate offices in the UAE, making a stay at Hilton more welcoming to those who may have a non-apparent disability. As part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, the majority of team members across the UAE at participating hotels have undergone specialised training that will better equip them to recognise the Sunflower lanyard, pin or bracelet as a sign that the guest or team member may require additional acknowledgement, support, patience, understanding and kindness without any language barrier.
Guy Hutchinson, president, Middle East & Africa, Hilton, said, “As a business of people serving people, we are proud to be the first international hospitality company to implement the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme across our hotels in the UAE. This is a significant step as we continue to create a welcoming environment for all. One in seven people globally live with a disability, and 80% of these are not outwardly visible – making this latest partnership an important alliance that enables us to create a great workplace for every team member and deliver a seamless experience for every guest.”
Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland, exclusive partner of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the Middle East, added, “We are excited to partner with Hilton in the UAE as part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. As one of the leading hospitality companies in the region, Hilton’s partnership signifies a momentous step for businesses and organisations to bring awareness, recognise the varied needs of both customers and employees, and encourage adequate training to be even better equipped to support those who may need extra help.”
As a global hospitality company, Hilton believes that every guest – regardless of age, ability or any other factor – deserves a reliable and friendly travel experience every time. The hospitality leader prides themselves on an award-winning culture of empowerment, awareness, advancement and advocacy for team members, guests and community members with visible and invisible disabilities, as well as caregivers and allies. While this effort is a great step forward, Hilton acknowledges this work is never done and looks forward to continuing its journey to create a welcoming and accessible stay for all.
In addition to participating hotels and corporate offices across the UAE, Hilton has a growing number of hotels across Europe, the U.K. and the United States involved in the network.
Moreover, two Hilton hotels across the UAE are now certified by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and eight others are in the process of getting the certification, as part of an initiative between IBCCES and Dubai Economy and Tourism that aims to create a better environment and enhance accessibility for guests and team members. This comes in line with Dubai’s recent recognition as a certified Autism destination by IBCCES, underscoring citywide efforts to make tourism more accessible and inclusive for all, and making Dubai the first city in the Eastern Hemisphere to gain the title.
