Championing Inclusivity, Alia bint Sultan’s Initiative Aims to Empower Elderly Citizens and Honor Arabic Language
Emirati photographer Alia bint Sultan is leading a cultural and social movement to bring Arabic menus to cafés across the UAE, a campaign inspired by the struggles of older citizens who find it difficult to navigate menus written primarily in English. Her initiative, launched this October in honor of International Day for Older Persons, highlights a unique yet meaningful way to foster inclusivity for seniors in public spaces.
The inspiration behind Alia’s campaign came from the voices of elderly citizens who often rely on their children to translate English menus, an experience that can impact their sense of independence and enjoyment during outings. “I wanted to challenge cafés to prepare Arabic menus, allowing seniors to enjoy their visits without barriers,” Alia shared with Khaleej Times. “This initiative is all about making our elders feel included and valued.”
Alia’s campaign has gained momentum on social media, where she shared a video of a character named Maitha expressing her frustration with the lack of Arabic menus. “When you go to the coffee shop, the menu is all in English, and we don’t know how to order,” Maitha says. She explained that while there’s no objection to the presence of English or other languages, Arabic should be an essential part of the experience for all. Many seniors, she noted, end up ordering cappuccinos simply because it’s a recognizable term on the menu. Alia’s message is clear: “Let’s make them happy by adding Arabic to the menu.”
The campaign’s success has been rapid, with around 16 cafés across the UAE already adding Arabic options to their menus. This positive reception has even drawn attention from cafés and businesses across the Gulf region and other Arab countries, some of whom have offered to translate menus into Arabic at no cost. The campaign’s message has resonated with café owners, including the owner of Bonsai Café in Kalba, who expressed pride in embracing this cultural responsibility. “We are thrilled to take this step. It reflects our responsibility towards our culture and identity,” they said, emphasizing the importance of a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
Alia sees this campaign as part of a larger movement, aptly named Together We Make Change, that underscores the importance of the Arabic language as a bridge of inclusivity and cultural pride. She quotes Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, saying, “I don’t wait for anyone… I initiate. And others will follow me.”
Her movement stands as an example of how a single initiative can create a significant ripple effect. Alia’s campaign not only addresses the needs of senior citizens but also champions a stronger cultural connection within society, reminding us that small changes can foster lasting inclusivity and community spirit.
