How GCC Businesses Benefit from Accessible Design

Creating accessible digital platforms is not just ethical - it’s smart business. For companies in the GCC, accessible design connects them with diverse audiences, improves customer satisfaction, and reduces costs. Here’s why it matters:

• What is Accessible Design? It ensures websites, apps, and services are usable by everyone, including people with disabilities, by following principles like clear navigation, readable text, and compatibility with assistive tools.
• Why It’s Relevant in the GCC: The region’s mobile-first markets, diverse demographics, and government initiatives (like the UAE’s “People of Determination” strategy) make accessibility a priority.
• Business Benefits:
  • Reach more customers, including older adults, expatriates, and tourists.
  • Increase engagement and loyalty by reducing barriers and improving usability.
  • Save money by integrating accessibility early and avoiding costly redesigns.
  • Mitigate legal risks as GCC countries strengthen accessibility regulations.

Key Stats:

• 71% of users with disabilities abandon inaccessible websites, leading to lost revenue.
• Companies improving accessibility saw a 28% revenue boost, according to a 2020 study.
• Accessible design can expand a product’s reach by up to 4x.

How to Get Started:

• Involve people with disabilities in testing and design.
• Use data and AI to identify and fix barriers.
• Train staff on accessibility best practices.

Accessible design isn’t just about compliance - it’s about creating better experiences for everyone while driving growth and protecting your brand in the GCC.

The business case for inclusive design, Charley Pothecary

Business Benefits of Accessible Design in the GCC

Making digital experiences inclusive isn't just the right thing to do - it also opens doors to new customers, strengthens engagement, and cuts costs. For businesses in the GCC, these advantages are particularly relevant in a competitive and diverse market.

Reaching More Customers

Accessible design helps businesses connect with customer groups that are often overlooked. By removing digital barriers, companies can significantly expand their audience. Research from the Centre for Inclusive Design reveals that products designed with accessibility in mind can reach up to four times as many consumers as those without such considerations. This isn't limited to individuals with permanent disabilities but also includes people with temporary or situational challenges. Globally, about one billion people live with a disability, according to the World Bank, making it the largest minority group. In 2018, the purchasing power of working-age adults with disabilities was estimated at approximately US$490 billion (AED 1.8 trillion), with discretionary income around US$21 billion (AED 77 billion).

In the GCC, accessible design benefits a wide range of users. Older adults dealing with age-related changes, expatriates navigating bilingual platforms, and tourists using unfamiliar systems all benefit. For instance, a retail app with clear icons and simple navigation or a banking website offering high-contrast modes and scalable text can make life easier for everyone. These features not only assist people with disabilities but also support commuters, non-native speakers, and anyone using devices in bright Gulf sunlight.

A 2020 Accenture study found that companies improving accessibility saw a 28% boost in revenue, driven by new customer acquisition and greater satisfaction among existing users. In the GCC's competitive environment, tapping into these previously underserved segments can be a game-changer for business growth.

Improving Customer Engagement and Retention

Accessible design doesn't just attract customers - it keeps them coming back. A smooth, user-friendly experience is key to building loyalty. A UK study revealed that 71% of web users with disabilities will leave a site that isn’t accessible. For GCC retailers handling high-value online transactions, this could mean significant revenue loss. Similarly, if digital banking platforms are difficult to navigate, customers may avoid using them, increasing support costs and lowering their lifetime value.

Businesses in Europe that invested in accessible web design reported fewer abandoned transactions and higher revenue, as users could complete tasks more easily. Features like keyboard-friendly checkout processes, clear error messages, and logical form layouts reduce drop-offs. In online banking, accessible authentication and well-labelled input fields help users feel confident managing their finances.

Consumer preferences also highlight the importance of accessibility. Nielsen reports that 66% of consumers are willing to spend more on brands committed to positive social impact. Additionally, 92% of consumers in a national survey said they are more likely to support companies that hire and support individuals with disabilities. In the UAE, where customer experience and brand reputation are paramount, accessible design sends a strong message about a company’s values and inclusivity.

By delivering consistent, accessible experiences, businesses build trust and loyalty across all customer interactions.

Reducing Costs and Legal Risks

Incorporating accessibility from the beginning isn't just smart - it saves money. Making digital products accessible during the design phase is far more cost-effective than retrofitting them later. Studies consistently show that early integration of accessibility delivers better returns and avoids costly redesigns. Using reusable components that meet accessibility standards - like proper contrast ratios and screen reader compatibility - can also reduce long-term costs.

Companies that prioritise accessibility often report fewer defects and lower support costs, as their platforms work well across devices, bandwidth conditions, and user needs. For GCC organisations managing bilingual or multilingual platforms, accessible content models built on consistent templates can simplify translation and localisation efforts.

The legal landscape is another critical factor. As GCC nations, including the UAE, strengthen disability rights and digital government initiatives, businesses face increasing legal, regulatory, and reputational risks if they fail to meet accessibility standards. Globally, accessibility is recognised as a legal requirement, with frameworks like WCAG shaping compliance and procurement policies. Non-compliance can result in complaints, exclusion from major contracts, and negative media attention, all of which can harm a brand’s reputation.

In markets like the UAE, which aim to lead in tourism, finance, and innovation, accessible services align with national strategies. They also open doors to partnerships with international organisations that mandate accessibility compliance. This not only enhances a company’s reputation but also contributes to a digital ecosystem that supports long-term growth.

Accessibility Standards and Compliance in the GCC

For businesses in the GCC, following accessibility standards is more than just a legal requirement - it's a way to strengthen trust and engagement with diverse audiences. Clear guidelines and regulations help companies deliver inclusive digital experiences while reducing risks. As regional policies continue to evolve, international standards and local initiatives provide a reliable framework for achieving accessibility in design and services.

International Accessibility Standards

GCC businesses often turn to internationally recognised frameworks like WCAG, ISO 9241-171, and ISO 30071-1 for guidance on creating accessible digital platforms. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), are the most widely used standards. Current guidelines, WCAG 2.1 - and the soon-to-be-released WCAG 2.2 - outline how websites, apps, and other digital tools can be designed to accommodate everyone, including those using assistive technologies like screen readers or keyboard navigation.

WCAG defines success criteria across three levels: A, AA, and AAA, with Level AA being the standard benchmark for most websites. Other key standards include ISO 9241-171, which focuses on software ergonomics and accessibility, and ISO 30071-1, which offers a framework for embedding accessibility into organisational processes. These standards encourage businesses to adopt an integrated approach to accessibility. All GCC countries have also ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), making accessibility a legal obligation.

For example, a bank in Dubai might require all new website templates to meet WCAG AA standards before launch. Progress could be monitored through regular dashboards, and design teams might use checklists to ensure features like proper colour contrast, alternative text for images, and keyboard-friendly navigation are implemented. This turns global standards into actionable, measurable goals.

UAE and GCC Accessibility Regulations

In the UAE, accessibility is central to the national inclusion strategy. Under the People of Determination initiative, both public and private sectors are expected to ensure equal access to services. Programmes like Dubai’s "My Community… A City for Everyone" and the Dubai Universal Design Code (updated in 2021) set mandatory standards for accessibility in physical and digital spaces. These include requirements for signage, digital kiosks, and wayfinding systems in new developments and major renovations.

The UAE uses WCAG and ISO standards as benchmarks for compliance, reinforcing accessibility as a priority for businesses. Across the GCC, countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar are incorporating accessibility into their national development plans and smart-city initiatives. For companies operating across the region, standardising on WCAG 2.1 AA can streamline compliance efforts and reduce risks tied to non-compliance.

Legal and Reputation Risks

Failing to provide accessible digital services can lead to serious legal, regulatory, and reputational risks. As essential services like banking, healthcare, and government applications increasingly move online, inaccessible platforms can become barriers to equal participation. This can result in regulatory penalties, delays in product approvals, or even lawsuits under anti-discrimination and disability rights laws. Sectors like finance, education, and healthcare, which are heavily regulated, face heightened scrutiny.

Additionally, companies working with international investors or partners may encounter contractual risks, as many global organisations now require suppliers to meet established accessibility standards. Research shows that 71% of web users with disabilities will leave an inaccessible website immediately, which can directly impact revenue and generate negative feedback online. In a region where social media and online reviews hold significant sway, poor digital experiences - such as difficulty booking an accessible hotel room or using a banking app with assistive technology - can quickly damage a brand's reputation.

On the flip side, businesses that prioritise accessibility often see benefits like increased public goodwill, stronger employer branding, and alignment with ESG (environmental, social, and governance) goals. According to Nielsen research cited by the World Economic Forum, 66% of consumers are willing to spend more with companies that demonstrate positive social impact, including through accessibility and inclusion efforts. Practical steps to mitigate risks include publishing an accessibility statement on digital platforms and incorporating accessibility standards into procurement processes. For more complex needs, partnering with consultancies like Wick can help embed accessibility into a company’s broader digital strategy.

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How to Implement Accessible Design

Turning accessibility policies into practical action requires a clear and actionable plan. Businesses in the GCC can make their digital platforms more inclusive by focusing on three key strategies: involving people with disabilities in the design process, using data and technology to identify and address barriers, and building organisational knowledge through training and awareness. These strategies work together to create a strong foundation for accessible digital experiences, making accessibility an integral part of the broader digital ecosystem.

User-Centred Design Approaches

The most effective way to design for accessibility is by actively involving individuals with disabilities from the start. This approach ensures that the needs of users with visual, hearing, mobility, and cognitive impairments are considered throughout the design process. For businesses in the GCC, this means recruiting participants locally and collaborating with organisations like disability groups, rehabilitation centres, and universities in the UAE and the wider region.

When testing critical user journeys - such as booking a service, making a payment in AED, or creating an account - it's important to use the assistive technologies that people with disabilities rely on. Offering compensation of AED 300–500 for a 60–90 minute session acknowledges participants' expertise and encourages their long-term involvement.

The feedback gathered during these sessions should directly impact design decisions. For example, if a user finds it difficult to navigate a form using a keyboard, this issue should be addressed in the next development sprint. Similarly, if a screen reader user struggles to differentiate between buttons with similar labels, the interface should be updated with clearer text. Documenting these findings through videos, notes, and journey maps ensures that the insights from people with disabilities shape everything from interface design to content patterns.

Practical techniques include creating personas and journey maps that represent users with disabilities, older adults, and non-native English speakers. During wireframing, designers should focus on semantic structure, such as clear headings, logical reading order, and visible focus states, while ensuring keyboard navigation is prioritised. Visual designs should include high-contrast colour schemes, scalable fonts, and touch targets of at least 44 × 44 pixels, in line with WCAG AA standards. Content teams should simplify language, use descriptive link text, and provide captions or transcripts for all media. Testing prototypes with assistive technologies before development begins helps identify and fix structural issues early, saving time and resources.

Using Data and Technology for Accessibility

Data and technology can highlight where accessibility barriers exist and show how improvements impact business outcomes. Analytics tools can segment user behaviour by device, browser, and language (Arabic or English), helping to identify problem areas. For example, high drop-off rates on forms, frequent error messages, or extended task completion times may point to issues like unclear instructions, poorly labelled fields, or overly complex captchas.

Tracking metrics such as task completion rates, time spent on tasks, and abandonment rates can reveal where users are struggling. Heatmaps and click-tracking tools can show when users repeatedly click on non-interactive elements, which often indicates design flaws that confuse users with cognitive or vision impairments. Comparing these metrics before and after accessibility updates - such as simplifying forms or adding captions - can demonstrate the benefits in terms of higher conversions, better retention, and stronger engagement. These improvements not only enhance the user experience but also contribute to revenue growth and customer satisfaction.

Artificial intelligence (AI) can speed up accessibility efforts. Automated tools can flag issues like missing alt text, inadequate colour contrast, or incorrect heading structures during the development process. AI can also generate captions and transcripts for Arabic and English audio and video content, making it easier for users to access information and improving searchability. Additionally, AI-driven personalisation features can adjust font sizes, colour schemes, or layouts to suit individual preferences, helping users with low vision, dyslexia, or attention challenges. However, human oversight remains critical. AI-generated alt text often lacks context, and auto-captions may struggle with regional Arabic dialects or technical terms. Businesses should treat AI as a helpful tool, not a replacement for expert reviews and user testing.

For a comprehensive approach, consultancies like Wick can integrate accessibility into every aspect of digital operations. Wick’s Four Pillar Framework ensures that websites, SEO, content, social media, and automation are designed with accessibility in mind. Their services include accessibility audits, analytics reviews, and prioritisation of fixes that deliver measurable returns, such as higher form completion rates or reduced bounce rates. By building WCAG-compliant websites, optimising content for screen readers, and creating inclusive marketing automation campaigns, Wick helps businesses deliver accessible experiences for both Arabic and English-speaking audiences, while continuously refining performance through data and AI.

Staff Training and Organisational Awareness

Optimising design and technology is just the beginning; embedding accessibility into the organisation's culture is equally important. Accessibility should not be confined to a single team - it requires a collective effort across all departments. Role-specific training ensures that each team understands how to contribute. For example, developers can learn about semantic HTML and keyboard interaction patterns, designers can focus on contrast and typography, and content teams can master alt text and plain-language writing. Marketers can learn how to create inclusive campaigns and social media posts.

A combination of e-learning modules and hands-on workshops works well. Online courses can cover topics like disability awareness, assistive technology basics, and the GCC’s legal requirements. Workshops, on the other hand, allow teams to address real-world issues within their current projects. Live demonstrations of tools like screen readers or voice control - ideally led by individuals with disabilities - help build empathy and practical understanding. Regular training refreshers and onboarding sessions ensure that accessibility knowledge is maintained, even as staff changes occur. Linking training completion to performance goals can further encourage accountability.

Creating a culture of accessibility requires visible leadership. An executive-endorsed accessibility statement, along with clear targets and regular progress updates, signals that accessibility is a priority. Establishing a cross-functional working group with representatives from IT, UX, marketing, HR, customer service, and legal can help coordinate efforts and share insights. Embedding accessibility into standard processes - such as requiring vendors to meet accessibility standards or ensuring recruitment platforms are inclusive - ensures that accessibility becomes part of everyday business operations.

Ongoing feedback is crucial. Accessible surveys and complaint channels allow users to report issues, and treating accessibility-related incidents with the same urgency as other service failures shows a genuine commitment to inclusivity. Recognising and rewarding teams that improve accessibility helps reinforce its importance as a core organisational value.

Measuring progress requires a mix of technical, behavioural, and perception metrics. Technical indicators include the number of WCAG violations and the time taken to resolve accessibility issues. Behavioural metrics, such as task completion rates and form error rates, reveal how well users can navigate key processes. Perception metrics, including customer satisfaction (CSAT) and Net Promoter Score (NPS), provide insight into how users feel about their experience. Over time, linking accessibility improvements to business outcomes - such as higher conversion rates, increased repeat visits, and better SEO traffic - demonstrates that accessibility is not just a compliance requirement but a vital driver of growth and customer loyalty.

Conclusion: Making Accessibility a Business Priority in the GCC

Why GCC Businesses Should Prioritise Accessibility

Investing in accessible design is not just a matter of ethics - it’s a smart business move. For companies in the UAE and the broader GCC, the benefits are undeniable. Businesses that incorporate accessibility into their digital platforms tap into new revenue streams, strengthen their reputation, and reduce risks in a region where inclusion is a key focus.

The numbers speak for themselves. A 2020 study by Accenture revealed that improving accessibility can lead to a 28% boost in revenue by attracting new customers and improving satisfaction levels. Similarly, research from the Centre for Inclusive Design shows that accessible features - like simplified navigation, captions, and clear layouts - can expand a product’s reach up to four times, benefiting not just people with disabilities but all users.

Accessibility also fosters customer loyalty. Data shows that 71% of disabled users leave websites that are hard to use, resulting in lost sales and opportunities. On the flip side, accessible sites encourage repeat visits, better task completion, and stronger brand connections. According to the World Economic Forum, 66% of consumers are willing to spend more on products from companies that prioritise social impact, which includes accessibility. Furthermore, 92% of consumers support brands that actively employ and assist people with disabilities.

But it’s not just about revenue and loyalty - accessibility can also save money. Designing for accessibility from the start is generally cheaper than fixing issues later. It reduces user errors, cuts down on support calls, and lowers long-term maintenance costs. European organisations have reported that accessible technologies improve productivity, particularly with the rise of remote work, and help attract diverse talent. Over 80% of these organisations found that accessibility helped them retain employees who became disabled and drew from a broader talent pool. Additionally, 85% of private companies and 77% of public organisations noted a boost in their image and alignment with social goals.

Ignoring accessibility also comes with risks. As laws around digital accessibility and anti-discrimination tighten, businesses that fail to comply risk legal action and damage to their brand. By aligning with international standards and upcoming local regulations, GCC businesses can protect themselves while positioning as leaders in innovation and inclusion.

A Unified Digital Strategy for Accessibility

The benefits of accessibility are clear, but how can businesses in the GCC implement it effectively? The answer lies in a cohesive digital strategy that ensures accessibility is consistent across all digital platforms. Websites, apps, and marketing campaigns must all follow the same accessibility principles. This unified approach reduces duplication, speeds up the rollout of accessible features, and simplifies management for businesses operating in multiple languages and markets.

Companies like Wick offer practical solutions to embed accessibility into every aspect of digital operations. Their Four Pillar Framework covers website development, SEO, content creation, social media management, marketing automation, data analytics, and AI-driven personalisation. By building WCAG-compliant websites and optimising content for screen readers, they help businesses deliver accessible experiences for both Arabic and English speakers.

Data analytics also plays a critical role in maintaining accessibility. Metrics such as bounce rates, task completion, and user feedback can pinpoint problem areas and guide improvements. This data-driven approach ensures that accessibility remains a priority and delivers measurable commercial benefits.

By combining accessible design with AI-driven personalisation, businesses can create experiences that cater to diverse user needs without adding barriers. For GCC businesses, this approach aligns accessibility with the region's broader goals of inclusion and digital transformation, turning it into a clear, actionable strategy that drives growth, protects reputation, and supports long-term success.

Delaying action on accessibility not only risks legal and reputational harm but also means missing out on untapped markets and growth opportunities. Treat accessibility as a core part of your business strategy - on par with cybersecurity or data governance - to build trust, remain competitive, and secure lasting value in the GCC market.

FAQs

What steps can GCC businesses take to make their digital platforms more accessible?

Integrating accessible design into digital platforms is a smart move for businesses in the GCC looking to boost customer engagement and stay compliant with regulations. Start by aligning your website and digital tools with international accessibility standards, like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This means incorporating features such as text alternatives for images, keyboard-friendly navigation, and compatibility with screen readers.

It's also important to carry out user testing with a wide range of individuals, including those with disabilities, to uncover any usability challenges. Regularly auditing and updating your platforms ensures they remain accessible as technology and user needs evolve. By making inclusivity a priority, businesses can broaden their audience while building trust and loyalty among customers in the UAE and the wider GCC region.

What accessibility standards should businesses in the GCC follow to stay compliant and avoid legal issues?

Businesses across the GCC are encouraged to follow internationally recognised standards like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to make their digital platforms inclusive and compliant. These guidelines provide clear instructions on improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities, focusing on aspects such as text readability, user-friendly navigation, and accessible multimedia content.

Equally important is aligning with local regulations and respecting cultural norms. This not only reduces the risk of legal issues but also strengthens customer confidence. Incorporating accessibility into digital strategies can enhance user engagement and broaden audience reach, ensuring a more inclusive experience for everyone.

How can accessible design enhance the financial performance of businesses in the GCC?

Focusing on accessible design as part of your digital strategy can bring noticeable financial benefits to businesses in the GCC. By making your website and digital platforms user-friendly for everyone - including people with disabilities - you can reach a wider audience, enhance customer satisfaction, and increase engagement. This broader reach and improved user experience often result in higher revenue and stronger customer loyalty.

Moreover, adopting accessible design ensures compliance with both regional and international regulations, helping businesses avoid legal issues while strengthening their reputation as socially responsible organisations. These efforts not only encourage long-term growth but also position your business as a forward-thinking leader in inclusivity within the GCC market.