Majid Al Futtaim Partners With Dubai Future Foundation To Launch People-First Retail Robotics Pilot In Dubai

Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has teamed up with Majid Al Futtaim to explore how robotics can transform retail. This collaboration is unique as it begins in shopping malls with real customers instead of labs. At City Centre Mirdif, two avatar-style robots are assisting visitors, marking the start of a broader initiative to enhance experiences in shopping centres, hotels, and entertainment venues.

The initiative is part of a larger research effort between Dubai Future Labs (DFL) and Osaka University under Japan's Moonshot Research and Development Programme. Supported by the Japan Science and Technology Agency, this programme aims to create an "Avatar-Symbiotic Society" by 2050. The goal is to help people overcome physical and spatial barriers through advanced robotics.

Khalifa Al Qama, Executive Director of Dubai Future Labs, stated that this partnership aligns with the Dubai Robotics and Automation Programme. This programme was launched to advance technology development across key sectors in Dubai. By deploying robotics in busy public areas, Dubai strengthens its position as a leader in creating a future-ready city.

Majid Al Futtaim's vision focuses on reimagining customer experiences using responsible AI and emerging technologies. The emphasis is on practical applications informed by real-time feedback rather than innovation for its own sake. The City Centre Mirdif project is the first phase of a journey to implement AI-enabled solutions across Majid Al Futtaim’s portfolio.

The pilot at City Centre Mirdif aims to improve wayfinding, accessibility, service response, and operational efficiency. It is part of several technology initiatives under Majid Al Futtaim's digital transformation strategy. These initiatives aim to provide seamless and memorable experiences for customers.

Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Managing Director of Majid Al Futtaim Shopping Malls in the UAE, expressed pride in City Centre Mirdif leading innovation with this robotics pilot alongside DFF. He noted that this step advances their goal of creating smarter retail environments that prioritise people. Emerging technology can significantly enhance customer engagement when used responsibly.

Responsible Integration

DFF and Majid Al Futtaim are also considering legal, ethical, and societal implications from the start. They aim to ensure that technology integration reflects community needs and values responsibly. By introducing robotics into public life thoughtfully, this partnership makes advanced technologies more accessible and trusted.

This collaboration represents a significant move towards making advanced technologies more meaningful in everyday life. It highlights the potential for robotics to improve customer experiences while addressing important societal considerations.

With inputs from WAM