Dubai Autism Centre Launches Its 19th Awareness Campaign On World Autism Awareness Day

The Dubai Autism Centre has initiated its 19th Autism Awareness Campaign, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This campaign, launched on World Autism Awareness Day, aims to promote understanding and support for individuals with autism. Hisham Abdullah Al Qassim, Chairman of the Centre, highlighted the campaign's alignment with the 'Year of the Community,' fostering an inclusive society.

Al Qassim emphasised that empowering people with autism is a collective responsibility. He stressed the need for collaboration across sectors to integrate these individuals into society effectively. He expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Hamdan for his unwavering support, which reflects a commitment to creating an inclusive environment for people of determination.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, stated their dedication to integrating people of determination into society aligns with national policies. These efforts aim to create an inclusive community that ensures empowerment and a decent life for people of determination and their families. The campaign supports this vision by raising awareness and promoting social ties.

This year's campaign includes various activities such as illuminating iconic landmarks in blue on World Autism Awareness Day. Weekly workshops in UAE schools will educate teachers on early autism detection methods. Additionally, segments on Noor Dubai TV's 'Balsam' show will further raise awareness about autism.

The Dubai Autism Centre has released a new book titled ‘Managing Behavioral Challenges in Children with Autism,’ authored by Dr. Bassam Darwish. This guide provides parents and educators with strategies to support children with autism by enhancing social interaction and teaching social skills.

Mohammed Al Emadi, Director-General of the Dubai Autism Centre, stressed the importance of educating society about autism's developmental characteristics. He noted that individuals with autism often face challenges in communication, social interaction, and behaviour.

Strategic Partnerships and Media Support

Al Emadi expressed gratitude towards sponsors and partners supporting the campaign. Key partners include DEWA, Wasl Asset Management Group, Emirates Islamic Bank, ENOC, Dubai Holding, Union Coop, and others. Media support comes from entities like Gulf News and Zee Entertainment.

The campaign also benefits from media contributions through Noor Dubai TV’s ‘Balsam’ programme. Al Emadi acknowledged various organisations like Global Village and Mercato Shopping Mall for their involvement in achieving the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination's goals.

Raising Awareness Through Iconic Landmarks

On World Autism Awareness Day, landmarks worldwide light up in blue to mark the occasion. In Dubai, notable sites such as Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab participate in this initiative as part of the annual awareness campaign led by the Dubai Autism Center since 2006.

The Centre was established in 2001 as the first Emirati non-profit organisation focused on autism services in UAE. It aims to make Dubai a global hub for special education programmes and rehabilitative treatment services for those diagnosed with ASD.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurological condition affecting social interaction and communication skills. Recent studies indicate that one in 36 children is affected by ASD globally.

With inputs from WAM