Direct Access - Designing for Everyone. Building a More Accessible World.

Founded in the UK in 2004 by Steven Mifsud MBE, Direct Access was born from his personal experience of living with profound deafness and his passion for creating accessible environments. The company began with a mission to help organisations make buildings, public spaces, transport and digital services more inclusive for People of Determination.

Direct Access expanded into the Middle East in 2018, responding to growing demand for accessibility expertise following the introduction of Dubai’s Universal Design Code. Its first regional client was Nando’s in Dubai Marina. By establishing a local team and employing People of Determination, the company strengthened its ability to provide practical guidance informed by lived experience alongside technical standards.

In 2025, Direct Access became part of Matrix Design Group, a US-based, employee-owned engineering and consulting firm. The following year, it established its Middle East base in RAKEZ under Matrix Design International Services FZ-LLC, creating a platform to expand its accessibility and engineering services across the region.

Direct Access has built its reputation by combining technical expertise with the lived experience of People of Determination. With most of its consultants having disabilities themselves, the company provides practical accessibility solutions that reflect how people experience and navigate spaces. Its integration with Matrix Design Group has further strengthened its capabilities through access to engineering, planning, geospatial and landscape architecture expertise.

The company’s portfolio includes major international projects such as the London 2012 Olympic Games and Expo 2020 Dubai, where it contributed to accessibility initiatives including the introduction of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to the Middle East. Its work also extends to accessibility consultancy for the ilmi Science Discovery and Innovation Centre and Qiddiya in Saudi Arabia, alongside hotel accessibility audits in Dubai. Its achievements include receiving the Expo 2020 Dubai Sustainability Award as a delivery partner.

Innovation remains central to its approach. Direct Access has developed solutions for people with non-visible disabilities and neurodivergent individuals, including a wayfinding application with SAP featuring communication aids. It has also contributed to sustainable mobility through accessibility assessments of electric vehicle charging sites in Ireland, helping inform future Universal Design standards.

RAKEZ has supported Direct Access in establishing its Middle East base in Ras Al Khaimah, assisting with corporate formation and facilitating introductions within the emirate. Licensed in June 2026 and operating from the Compass Building in Al Hulaila, the company benefits from a regional presence that supports closer engagement with clients and communities while creating opportunities for continued growth.