Summary:
- Hamad International Airport enhances inclusivity with the introduction of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, promoting accessible travel for all passengers.
- The program fosters supportive interactions by allowing passengers with hidden disabilities to discreetly signal their needs for additional assistance.
- Stakeholders across operations, including Qatar Airways and airport services, are trained to recognise the Sunflower symbol and provide tailored support.
Hamad International Airport is enhancing inclusivity and accessibility by introducing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. By wearing the Sunflower, travellers can quietly signal that they may need more time, clearer communication, or additional support while travelling through the airport, helping to create understanding and more supportive interactions across the passenger journey.
“Guided by principles of autonomy, dignity, and predictability, Hamad International Airport continues to design passenger journeys that support diverse needs while maintaining clarity and consistency,” said Hamad International Airport Senior Vice President of Commercial, Strategy and Customer Experiences Francois Bourienne. “The Sunflower program forms part of HIA’s broader accessibility framework, creating a barrier and hassle-free airport that truly serves everyone. Guided by our joint commitment with our stakeholders, we will continue investing in fit-for purpose facilities and services to ensure every journey through our airport is accessible.”
As a Sunflower-enabled airport, Hamad International Airport is integrating the program across key passenger touchpoints to ensure a consistent and supportive experience for passengers who are arriving, transferring, or departing. The Sunflower symbol is visible across the terminal to signal to passengers with hidden disabilities. Teams across airport operations, Qatar Airways Group, airline partners, retail, and services have been given awareness about the Sunflower program and trained to recognise the symbol as an additional way passengers may choose to communicate their needs.
“We are pleased to welcome Hamad International Airport in Qatar as a member of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program,” said Andy Faulkner, CEO of Topland, exclusive partner of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in the Middle East. “As one of the world’s leading airports, Hamad International Airport’s commitment represents an important step in creating more inclusive and accessible travel experiences. Their membership helps raise awareness of hidden disabilities, recognise the diverse needs of passengers and employees, and reinforces the importance of training to ensure that individuals who may need extra support are met with understanding and respect.”
You may also be interested in
12 technology and CX trends that can enhance airline and airport operations in 2026
