In a pioneering step for the region, the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) has teamed up with Majid Al Futtaim, the leading lifestyle and retail group across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, to explore the future of robotics in everyday retail settings—starting inside shopping malls rather than research labs.
The initiative kicks off with a live pilot at City Centre Mirdif, where two avatar-style robots are helping shoppers navigate the mall. This real-world test is part of a larger mission to study how robotics can elevate experiences in malls, hotels, and entertainment venues by making them more intuitive, responsive, and human-focused.
The pilot falls under the Dubai Robotics and Automation Programme, which aims to accelerate the development and deployment of advanced technologies across key sectors in Dubai.
“By deploying robotics in high-traffic public spaces, we’re reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global hub for innovation and future readiness,” said Khalifa Al Qama, Executive Director of Dubai Future Labs.
This effort reflects Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to reinventing the customer experience through responsible AI and real-time insights. The robots aren’t here to replace staff but to redefine how services are delivered—making every interaction smoother, more helpful, and more memorable.
The City Centre Mirdif pilot is the first step in a multi-phase rollout of AI-driven, people-first solutions across Majid Al Futtaim’s portfolio. These innovations aim to improve everything from navigation and accessibility to service response and operational efficiency, all while staying aligned with real customer needs.
“We’re proud to lead with City Centre Mirdif,” said Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Managing Director of Majid Al Futtaim Shopping Malls in the UAE. “This robotics pilot is just the beginning of a wider digital transformation focused on delivering smarter, more human experiences across all our destinations.”
