Secure the ultimate homegrown brand boost with an exclusive and proven ecosystem.
- UAE entrepreneurs gain direct access to Mall of the Emirates shoppers.
- The smart programme offers exposure to ten million SHARE loyalty members.
- Discover a proven path to scale for businesses running twelve months.
- This exclusive partnership aligns with the billion dirham Dubai economic package.
Walk through the corridors of Alserkal Avenue or the pop-up markets at Kite Beach and you will see the changing face of the local economy. While global giants have long dominated our skyline, a massive surge in “local-first” consumerism is currently sweeping through the Emirates. Today’s Dubai shopper is no longer just looking for international labels, they are actively hunting for brands with a story, a soul, and a UAE origin. This shift toward supporting homegrown talent has turned the struggle of the small business into a celebrated cultural movement.
Majid Al Futtaim is taking this sentiment to the big leagues with the launch of “Ma’an,” a strategic partnership with Dubai SME. Meaning “together” in Arabic, the initiative opens the gates to a retail empire that was previously the reserve of global conglomerates. From the luxury floors of Mall of the Emirates to the screens at VOX Cinemas, local entrepreneurs now have a direct line to millions of customers. It is a smart move that bridges the gap between a small workshop and a massive retail footprint.
The programme is designed for UAE-based businesses that have been operational for at least a year and have a compelling story to tell. Selected brands will not just get physical space, they will also be plugged into a high-octane marketing machine. This includes promotion through the SHARE app, which reaches over ten million members, alongside influencer collaborations and digital mall screens. Ahmed Galal Ismail of Majid Al Futtaim notes that small businesses are the cornerstone of the nation’s social fabric. This effort ensures they have a clear pathway to scale.
For the aspiring local founder, the biggest hurdle is often the high cost of market entry in premium locations. Ma’an removes this friction by aligning with Dubai’s recent one billion dirham economic incentive package. It is a bold statement of public and private sector unity, aiming to accelerate the growth of the next generation of retailers. By providing world-class visibility and professional mentorship, the programme helps emerging brands connect with customers faster and more meaningfully. It is a proven model for sustainable success.
Applications are now officially open for the inaugural cohort, but spaces are limited. If your brand has been growing in the shadows for the last twelve months, this is the moment to step into the light. It is more than just a retail opportunity, it is an invitation to join the legendary Majid Al Futtaim ecosystem. Head to their website to register and take your business to the next level. The future of UAE retail is being built together!
