Sanad Village Unveils Groundbreaking Initiatives For Autism At Accessibility Expo 2024

At the recent Accessibility Expo 2024 held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Sanad Village unveiled an innovative Travel and Road Safety program. This initiative is part of the largest center for autism and related disorders in the region, situated within The Sustainable City - Dubai. Designed to equip children and young adults with autism for real-life scenarios, this program emphasizes critical skills for everyday independence, including safe travel and navigation of roadways.

The introduction of the Travel and Road Safety program by Sanad Village is a pivotal expansion of its comprehensive simulation training. This program specifically targets the challenges of air travel and road safety, which are notably stressful for those with autism and their families. By simulating experiences such as airport check-ins and security screenings, as well as teaching the dangers of road crossing and the interpretation of traffic signals, the program aims to reduce travel-related anxiety. The goal is to bolster confidence in both the individuals and their caregivers through repeated exposure to these scenarios, enabling them to handle such situations with greater ease.

Sanad Village's approach includes a variety of realistic environments and simulations beyond the new Travel and Road Safety program. Students have the chance to practice and hone their skills in settings that mimic a supermarket, clinic, barbershop, coffee shop, and even an airport terminal. This broad spectrum of simulated experiences is crucial for developing the necessary skills for navigating various aspects of daily life.

Faris Saeed, the Founder and Chairman of Sanad Village, emphasized the significance of this new program, stating: "By expanding our simulation program to include air travel and road safety, we are providing children and young adults with autism the tools they need to manage two of the most challenging real-life situations—flying and crossing roads. This program is a crucial step toward helping individuals achieve greater independence and confidence in their daily lives. It also represents a significant contribution to supporting national efforts to enhance inclusion and accessibility for all, in alignment with the UAE's vision of integrating and empowering people of determination."

Complementing the launch of its Travel and Road Safety program, Sanad Village is also hosting the UAE's inaugural Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Conference on October 7. This conference is set to gather esteemed professionals, practitioners, and experts in ABA from across the region and beyond. The event aims to discuss the latest advancements in ABA, facilitate the exchange of best practices, and ultimately, strengthen regional capabilities in supporting individuals with autism and related disorders.

The initiative taken by Sanad Village to introduce both the Travel and Road Safety program and organize the ABA Conference underlines its commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism. Through these efforts, Sanad Village not only aims to provide practical solutions to everyday challenges but also fosters a community of learning and advancement in the field of autism support.