Majid Al Futtaim, in partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has launched Ma’an – a programme that gives UAE-based small and medium-sized businesses access to the company’s retail and leisure network across the region.
The initiative comes on the back of Dubai’s recently approved AED1 billion economic incentive package, which is aimed at easing financial pressures on businesses. Ma’an is designed to serve as a platform for entrepreneurs and businesses to grow their brands, while driving collaboration between the public and private sectors.
The name Ma’an means “together” in Arabic.
UAE SMEs can now apply for retail space at Mall of the Emirates through new Ma’an initiative
Selected brands will gain a direct pathway into Majid Al Futtaim’s consumer network, which includes Mall of the Emirates, THAT Concept Store, VOX Cinemas, Carrefour, and other destinations where millions of customers shop, dine, and spend their time.
The programme goes beyond physical retail space. Participating businesses will also receive access to Majid Al Futtaim’s marketing and communications platforms, including visibility through the SHARE app, social media channels, mall digital screens, media outreach, and collaborations with influencers and lifestyle partners – tools that can otherwise take years for businesses to unlock independently.
“This initiative reflects the importance of strategic public-private collaboration in creating practical growth opportunities for SMEs. By connecting emerging businesses with established consumer platforms, Ma’an enables entrepreneurs to strengthen market access, build brand visibility, and accelerate commercial growth,” Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME) said in a statement.
He added that the programme supports Dubai SME’s mandate to empower entrepreneurs in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and the directions of the city’s leadership.
“The role of our malls has always been to bring people and communities together, and that responsibility has never been more important than it is today. Small businesses are a cornerstone of the UAE’s economic and social fabric, and Ma’an reflects our commitment to creating pathways for homegrown brands to scale and thrive. This initiative, delivered in close partnership with Dubai SME and the Department of Economy and Tourism, demonstrates the strength of public–private collaboration in advancing the nation’s entrepreneurial ambitions. We are proud to stand alongside our government partners in supporting the next generation of UAE businesses and look forward to welcoming these emerging brands into the Majid Al Futtaim ecosystem,” Ahmed Galal Ismail, CEO, Majid Al Futtaim Holding added.
The programme is open for applications from UAE-based businesses that have been in operation for a minimum of 12 months and have a brand story to present. Spaces in the inaugural cohort are limited, and businesses selected will be contacted directly. Eligible brands are encouraged to apply at the earliest opportunity.
Ma’an also forms part of Dubai’s efforts to foster entrepreneurship, strengthen economic diversity, and support local business. By helping brands connect with customers more quickly, the initiative aims to create value for entrepreneurs and the broader community.
