Majid Al Futtaim Opens Dubai’s Biggest Malls to UAE Small Businesses — For Free
Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an is one of the most significant moves for UAE small businesses in 2026. In April, Majid Al Futtaim launched Ma’an — giving homegrown brands free physical and digital space across its entire retail ecosystem. Furthermore, for property investors and business owners eyeing Dubai, this signals yet another reason why the UAE remains one of the world’s most attractive places to build and grow.
What Is Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an?
Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an is a new initiative supporting UAE small businesses. Specifically, it opens up the group’s malls, cinemas and retail ecosystem to homegrown brands in partnership with Dubai SME. (Arabian Business)
Through the programme, Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an offers free space across its establishments for a month-long period. This includes physical pop-ups at Mall of the Emirates, THAT Concept Store, VOX Cinemas and Carrefour. In addition, the digital side of the initiative includes the group’s SHARE loyalty programme. As a result, selected brands gain exposure to millions of shoppers who visit to shop, dine and spend their time. (Khaleej Times)
In short: if you have a UAE-based business, you can apply to set up inside some of the country’s most high-traffic destinations — at zero cost.
Why Did Majid Al Futtaim Launch Ma’an Now?
The timing is deliberate. The programme comes at a time described as “challenging” for businesses across the region. Therefore, it aims to give entrepreneurs direct access to millions of consumers across the UAE. (Arabian Business)
Majid Al Futtaim stated: “At a challenging moment for businesses across the region, we asked ourselves what it truly means to show up for them. We are committed to ensuring our great local stories are told.” (Khaleej Times)
Furthermore, the group’s wider message is clear: “The UAE was founded on the belief that when you create the right conditions, people will build. At the heart of that belief are the homegrown businesses, makers, and entrepreneurs who give our communities their character, energy, and soul.” (Arabian Business)
This business-forward ethos is exactly what continues to draw entrepreneurs and investors to buy property in Dubai. Moreover, it is a city where policy and private sector consistently move in the same direction.
Who Is Behind Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an?
The initiative is delivered in collaboration with Dubai SME. This is part of the Dubai Department for Economy and Tourism. As a result, it reinforces efforts to promote entrepreneurship and support local enterprises across the UAE. (Arabian Business)
Majid Al Futtaim is also one of Dubai’s most prominent master developers. For example, residential communities including Tilal Al Ghaf and Ghaf Woods rank among the city’s most sought-after addresses. Additionally, the group reported a 41 per cent rise in net income in 2025. Revenue increased 6 per cent to Dh35.9 billion, while UAE revenue rose 11 per cent to more than Dh22 billion. Furthermore, mall occupancy surpassed 98 per cent and footfall rose 6 per cent. (The National)
The Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an Ecosystem on Offer
When Majid Al Futtaim says “its entire ecosystem,” here is what that means in practice:
- Mall of the Emirates — one of the UAE’s busiest retail destinations. It welcomed over 40 million visitors in 2024 alone. (Gulf Business)
- VOX Cinemas — the region’s most attended cinema chain
- Carrefour / HyperMax — hypermarket and supermarket locations across the UAE
- THAT Concept Store — a curated multi-brand retail environment
- SHARE Loyalty Programme — digital exposure to the UAE’s fastest-growing loyalty network
Moreover, selected UAE brands will get the opportunity to showcase their products directly to millions of visitors across the country. (Arabian Business)
It is worth noting that Mall of the Emirates sits in the heart of one of Dubai’s most connected corridors. It is close to communities like Dubai Hills Estate and along Sheikh Zayed Road. As a result, demand for apartments and villas in this corridor continues to climb.
How to Apply for the Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an Programme
Small businesses can apply for Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an directly on the group’s website. However, spaces are limited, so early applications are advised. (Khaleej Times)
Head to majidalfuttaim.com → Ma’an to submit your application.
The Bigger Picture for Dubai Investors
The Majid Al Futtaim Ma’an programme is more than a short-term relief initiative — it is a statement about the kind of economy the UAE is building. In fact, it signals a deliberate pivot by one of the UAE’s most powerful conglomerates. Additionally, it reflects a shift toward becoming a platform for local commerce — not just a landlord to global brands. The initiative therefore reflects a broader commitment to supporting local businesses that contribute to the UAE’s economic and social fabric. (Arabian Business)
For those looking to plant deeper roots in Dubai — whether through business or property — the fundamentals have never been stronger. For example, you can explore off-plan properties in Dubai, browse Dubai’s top developers, or get in touch with the Realtree team to understand how Dubai’s growth story translates into real investment opportunity.
For UAE entrepreneurs, the message is clear: the doors to Dubai’s biggest malls are open. Now is the time to walk through them.
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