Retail access in the UAE just shifted in a meaningful way. Small businesses are now showing up inside locations that usually stay out of reach — and the programme making it happen is called Ma'an.
UAE small businesses are now part of a new initiative by Majid Al Futtaim, launched in partnership with Dubai SME, that opens direct access to major retail and entertainment destinations. Selected brands can secure free physical space inside high-traffic locations while gaining digital exposure through established platforms.
Free Retail Space Inside UAE's Most-Visited Destinations
UAE small businesses selected through Ma'an can secure physical space inside some of the most visited destinations in the country.
That includes Mall of the Emirates, THAT Concept Store, VOX Cinemas, and Carrefour locations. These spaces attract constant footfall and daily consumer attention across the UAE.
For many small brands, getting placement in these locations usually involves high costs and strict requirements. Through Ma'an, that access is now available without those usual barriers.
This allows entrepreneurs to present their products directly to customers already active in premium retail environments.
Digital Exposure Through SHARE and Media Channels
The Ma'an initiative also extends into digital visibility for participating UAE small businesses.
Selected brands gain exposure through SHARE, Majid Al Futtaim's loyalty platform with millions of active users. Additional support includes marketing campaigns, influencer promotion, and media placements across mall screens and social channels.
This places participating brands in front of audiences already engaged in shopping, entertainment, and lifestyle spending — shortening the time it takes for a new brand to reach a large audience.
Backed by Dubai SME and the Department of Economy and Tourism
Ma'an — meaning "together" in Arabic — is launched in partnership with Dubai SME, an agency under the Department of Economy and Tourism.
The first cohort, announced in May 2026, included 27 UAE-based enterprises gaining access to Majid Al Futtaim's retail and entertainment ecosystem. Eligibility is open to UAE-based businesses that have been operating for at least one year.
This places the initiative within broader government efforts to support entrepreneurship and strengthen small and medium enterprises across the UAE economy.
What This Means for UAE Entrepreneurs Right Now
Retail spaces, cinemas, and lifestyle destinations across the UAE are now introducing small businesses into environments where large brands usually dominate.
For consumers, this means discovering new local brands in familiar, high-footfall places. For entrepreneurs, it creates direct access to customers who are already out shopping, dining, or spending time in these locations.
UAE small businesses now have a direct path into major retail and digital spaces through Ma'an. With free placement inside key locations and added exposure through established platforms, selected brands can present themselves to large audiences in a short time.
For entrepreneurs ready to take that step, the Ma'an initiative opens access that was previously difficult to secure.
