Dubai Autism Centre Concludes 19th Awareness Campaign With Launch Of First Autism-Focused Podcast Studio

The Dubai Autism Centre has wrapped up its 19th annual Autism Awareness Campaign, which began in early April. This initiative was under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. A significant highlight was the opening of the region's first Arabic-language podcast studio, aiming to enhance understanding and discussions about autism in the Arab world.

Mohammed Al Emadi, Director General and Board Member of the Dubai Autism Center, remarked on this achievement: "This achievement crowns a series of initiatives and events organised by the Centre throughout April in alignment with the goals of the ‘Year of the Community.’ The launch of this podcast studio marks a significant milestone in our efforts to raise public awareness around autism. Through this platform, we aim to amplify the voices of individuals with autism, their families, and caregivers, especially across the Arab world, highlighting their stories and experiences to help build a more inclusive and understanding society."

This year's campaign included weekly workshops that reached 673 public and 509 private schools across the UAE. Educational lectures were also provided for about 1,500 employees from various sectors. The Community Awareness Team took part in forums discussing autism-related topics at events hosted by organisations like the Dubai Health Authority and Abu Dhabi University.

Al Emadi expressed gratitude towards OP3 Design for their role in designing and sponsoring the podcast studio. He announced that Joyce Chamoun, Business Development Manager at the Dubai Autism Centre, would host the first episode. Charles Chang from OP3 Design stated: "We are proud to partner with the Dubai Autism Centre on this pioneering project. At OP3, we believe design can be a tool for positive change, and this studio is a living example—providing a space for expression, engagement, and community dialogue."

The campaign also highlighted new autism-friendly destinations in Dubai such as Mohammed Bin Rashid Library and Mercato Mall. These locations received an Autism-Friendly Certificate (AFC), supporting Dubai's initiative to become a model city for people of determination by fostering inclusive environments.

Digital media played a crucial role in spreading awareness during this campaign. Over 3,150 digital screens across various locations displayed campaign messages. These included displays at Dubai Metro stations, RTA bus stations, ENOC fuel stations, shopping malls, Novo Cinemas, and Zee satellite channels in both Arabic and English.

Family Support Activities

The centre offered free early screening sessions for children with autism during family support activities. They also released a guidebook titled "Managing Behavioural Challenges in Children with Autism" aimed at helping parents and educators understand behavioural causes and apply effective strategies.

Students from the centre participated in several events during the campaign period. Notably, they joined the 9th Abu Dhabi University Autism Art Competition where 16 students submitted artworks. Six students achieved first place along with second, third, and fifth place awards.

Centre's Mission and History

The Dubai Autism Center was established in 2001 as UAE's first non-profit organisation focused on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It aims to provide comprehensive consulting services alongside educational programmes for those diagnosed with ASD. The centre’s annual awareness campaign has been running since 2006 starting each year on World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd.

The centre continues its mission to raise community awareness about autism symptoms while educating individuals on how best to interact with people affected by it. Their efforts align with Decree No. 26 of 2021 which seeks to position Dubai as a global leader in special education programmes for ASD.

With inputs from WAM