M42, a global health leader powered by artificial intelligence (AI), technology and genomics, is pioneering a more inclusive and empowering healthcare environment for People of Determination (POD) by becoming the first health care facility in the region to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and introducing portable hearing loop systems across its facilities.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a global program that supports individuals with non-visible disabilities, helping them access greater understanding, assistance and inclusion in public spaces. The Sunflower is an internationally recognized symbol of choice-based inclusion, enabling individuals with non-visible disabilities to indicate their need for additional support. Patients and visitors can opt for the green Sunflower lanyard to self-identify, while allies wear the white Sunflower lanyard. The program will launch across multiple M42 facilities including Imperial College London Diabetes & Endocrine Centre (ICLDC), Healthpoint, Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed hospital, Danat Al Emarat hospital, and Capital Health Screening Center, with further expansion planned across the M42 network.
M42 is also introducing portable hearing loop systems in high-traffic areas across its facilities. These systems are designed to enhance communication for people with hearing loss, delivering clearer audio to individuals using hearing aids or cochlear implants, and significantly reducing stress during medical visits.
Dimitris Moulavasilis, Group Chief Executive Officer at M42, said:
“Equity in healthcare means more than just access – it is about ensuring every individual is treated with the respect and personalized care they deserve. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to create healthcare environments where every patient feels seen, supported and valued – laying the foundation for a more compassionate and inclusive future in healthcare.”
Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland, exclusive partner of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the Middle East, noted:
“We are incredibly proud to see M42 become the first healthcare facility in the Middle East to adopt the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. This milestone reflects a deep commitment to compassionate, inclusive care — ensuring that patients and visitors with non-visible disabilities feel seen, supported and understood. By championing this initiative, M42 is not only leading the way in healthcare accessibility but also setting a powerful example for the entire region.”
On a global level, approximately one out of every six people is considered a Person of Determination (POD), many with non-visible conditions such as autism, chronic illnesses or mental health conditions. In the UAE alone, over 28,000 PODs are officially registered , highlighting the urgent need for accessible and inclusive care across all sectors.
With a focus on accessibility and inclusion, M42 is taking tangible steps to ensure its healthcare environment reflects the diverse needs of all its visitors. The introduction of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyards and hearing loop systems across its facilities marks a broader shift toward care that is not only equitable but truly responsive, embodying the UAE’s spirit and vision for a society that prioritizes inclusion, compassion and well-being for all.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/disability-and-health
About M42
M42 is a global health champion powered by artificial intelligence (AI), technology and genomics to advance innovation in health for people and the planet. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, M42 combines its specialized, state-of-the-art facilities with integrated health solutions like genomics and biobanks, and harnesses advanced technologies to deliver precise, preventive and predictive care, to impactfully disrupt traditional healthcare models and positively impact lives globally.
Established in 2022, following the coming together of G42 Healthcare and Mubadala Health, M42 has more than 480 facilities in 26 countries and over 20,000 employees. M42 includes renowned healthcare providers, including Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Danat Al Emarat, Diaverum, Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital, and Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi. As well as operating the Emirati Genome Programme, M42 runs Abu Dhabi BioBank and Abu Dhabi Health Data Services (ADHDS), a global tech-enabled healthcare company operating Malaffi.
For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact:
Mazar Masud
Senior Director, Global Corporate Communications, M42
M: +971 52 593 5926
Asala Fadda
Senior Manager, Group Marketing & Communications, M42
M: +971 509555076
About Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a global program supporting individuals with non-visible disabilities, chronic conditions, and neurodivergence. Since its inception in the UK in 2016, the Sunflower program has expanded its reach worldwide, working with organizations across a diverse range of sectors, including retail, financial services, transportation (with over 300 airports in 30 countries), travel and tourism, education, healthcare, emergency services, and entertainment. The Sunflower symbol provides individuals with a discreet, voluntary way to share that they have a non-visible disability, chronic condition, or neurodivergence and may need extra assistance, understanding, time, or space. This simple, non-verbal method empowers individuals to navigate their workplace and public spaces with greater confidence and ease, fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment. As a privately held multinational company headquartered in the UK, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower operates in numerous countries, including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Luxembourg, Latin America, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Mauritius, the UAE, the UK, and the USA. For more information, visit hdsunflower.com