In honor of International Autism Awareness Month, Mercato Mall has been officially certified as an autism-friendly environment, becoming the first shopping center in the UAE to receive such recognition. This pioneering achievement aims to set new standards for inclusive and sustainable environments that empower people of determination to actively participate in society, supporting the “My Community… A City for Everyone” initiative, which seeks to transform Dubai into a fully inclusive city for people of determination.
This achievement embodies Mercato’s dedication to social responsibility by providing an inclusive and comfortable shopping experience that offers equal opportunities for all, while addressing the specific needs of children and individuals with autism and other disabilities.
As part of this initiative, Mercato, in collaboration with the Dubai Autism Center, has launched several key programs, including:
- Designated quiet sensory shopping hours to create a calm, low-stimulation environment.
- Staff training programs focused on enhancing understanding and support for individuals with autism and their families.
- Clear, autism-friendly signage throughout the mall to facilitate navigation and identify quiet zones and high-stimulation areas, along with awareness messages for families.
- Special quiet spaces for visitors who may experience sensory overload or fatigue.
- Interactive sensory toys available free of charge at the Customer Service Desk to help children self-regulate and relax.
“At Mercato, inclusivity is not just an initiative, it’s a commitment,” said Debbie Russo, General Manager at Mercato. “Becoming the UAE’s first Autism-Friendly Mall is a proud milestone, not just during International Autism Awareness Month, but every day. We want every visitor — especially families of children with autism — to feel seen, supported, and genuinely welcome. Because for us, it’s never just about shopping — it’s about creating a space where everyone belongs.”
On this achievement, Mohammed Al Emadi, Director General and Board Member of the Dubai Autism Center, stated: “Recognizing Mercato as the first autism-friendly mall in the UAE marks a significant milestone in our journey towards greater inclusion for individuals of determination. Our collaboration with Mercato reflects a genuine awareness within the private sector of the importance of creating supportive environments that address the needs of individuals with autism, offering them and their families a sense of safety and belonging. We hope this initiative will serve as a model for other sectors, promoting a culture of acceptance, diversity, and contributing to the UAE’s vision of building a more inclusive and compassionate society.”
Through these initiatives, Mercato aims to offer a safe, welcoming, and supportive shopping experience where every visitor can enjoy daily moments with greater ease and joy. The partnership between Mercato and the Dubai Autism Center goes beyond raising awareness; it strives to drive real, positive change across the retail sector in the UAE and beyond, fostering a culture of inclusion and enhancing the quality of life for all members of society.
The Autism-Friendly Certification Program (AFCP), a pioneering initiative in the region, was launched by the Dubai Autism Center in September 2022. Designed to recognize exemplary organizations in the public and private sectors, the program aims to foster a more inclusive community by encouraging higher accessibility standards for individuals with autism.