Retail Giants Back SMEs - Here’s How
For small businesses in the UAE, getting visibility is often half the battle. You may have a strong product, a clear idea, and the drive to grow - but access to the right platforms can take years to build. That’s where a new initiative by Majid Al Futtaim, in partnership with Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, is trying to make a difference.
They’ve launched Ma’an - which simply means “together” in Arabic - a programme designed to help UAE-based SMEs find their place within some of the country’s most established consumer spaces.
The idea is straightforward. Instead of expecting small businesses to slowly work their way into major retail ecosystems, Ma’an offers a more direct route. Selected brands will get the chance to showcase their products across well-known destinations like Mall of the Emirates, THAT Concept Store, VOX Cinemas, and Carrefour - places where millions of people already spend their time.
This move also aligns with Dubai’s broader efforts to support businesses, especially following the recently approved AED 1 billion economic incentive package aimed at easing financial pressure on companies.
According to Ahmad Al Room Almheiri from Dubai SME, initiatives like this are less about short-term exposure and more about building long-term access. When smaller businesses are connected to established platforms, it becomes easier for them to reach customers, strengthen their brand presence, and grow commercially without starting from scratch.
From the perspective of Ahmed Galal Ismail, the role of malls has evolved. They’re no longer just retail spaces - they’re community hubs. And within that, there’s a growing responsibility to support local entrepreneurs who form a key part of the UAE’s economic landscape.
What makes Ma’an slightly different from typical pop-up opportunities is that it doesn’t stop at physical retail space. Businesses that are part of the programme will also get access to marketing support through Majid Al Futtaim’s ecosystem. This includes visibility on the SHARE app, social media platforms, in-mall digital screens, and collaborations with influencers and media channels.
For many SMEs, these are resources that usually take years - and significant budgets - to access.
In practical terms, Ma’an is less about a one-time showcase and more about creating a structured pathway for growth. It reflects a larger shift in how public and private sectors in Dubai are working together - focusing not just on launching businesses, but helping them scale in a sustainable way.
