Efforts of UAE in serving people of determination

The UAE National Policy for Empowering People of Determination

Efforts to support people with disabilities in the UAE focus on ensuring equal opportunities, active participation, and a dignified life for them and their families. This includes providing high-quality, tailored services and appointing 'Disability Service Officers' in all institutions to assist with accessing facilities, obtaining information, and more.

The 'Persons with Disabilities Advisory Council' was established in 2017 as part of the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination. Its goal is to represent both federal and local government institutions, as well as community members, providing expert advice on improving services for people with disabilities and addressing their challenges.

In the UAE, the Ministry of Community Development oversees the 'Higher Committee for Persons with Disabilities Services,' which comprises representatives from relevant federal and local agencies concerned with disability issues. This committee is tasked with proposing legislation, initiatives, and policies to safeguard and empower individuals with disabilities, supervising the execution of national policies, and anticipating future needs to ensure comprehensive and effective service delivery.

 Integrated care: UAE’s efforts for all-round disability support

The National Policy for Empowering People of Determination in the UAE is founded on six essential pillars: health and rehabilitation, education, social protection and family empowerment, vocational rehabilitation and employment, accessibility, public life, culture, and sports.

The UAE is dedicated to providing equitable, high-quality healthcare tailored to the needs of people of determination, as guaranteed by the constitution and supported by national policies. Numerous governmental and private rehabilitation centres are available across all emirates. Additionally, Emirates Health Services "EHS" issues health cards to individuals with disabilities, ensuring free healthcare services at ministry facilities. The Ministry of Community Development also provides insurance cards for their children.

Educational institutions in the UAE are required to offer essential services for people with disabilities, including specialised curricula and methods such as sign language and Braille. This requirement is part of the national policy’s broader focus on developing an inclusive education system that ensures equal opportunities across all levels.

To support students with disabilities effectively, the UAE is committed to creating accessible school environments by employing specialised staff, offering assessment services, and encouraging participation in educational and cultural activities. Furthermore, the Ministry of Education contributes to this effort by providing smart devices and tools to facilitate classroom interaction.

Beyond education and healthcare, the UAE promotes equal employment opportunities for people with disabilities in both the public and private sectors through innovative strategies. The Ministry of Community Development’s website assists federal, local, and private entities in hiring people with disabilities by providing job details and conditions. The ministry also offers a service for job seekers with disabilities to showcase their skills and find suitable opportunities.

The "Atheer" card, an initiative by the ministry, provides people with disabilities benefits such as exemptions from vehicle-related services fees and special health and housing privileges, enhancing their quality of life and societal role. Moreover, the UAE hosts various cultural, sports, and social events to foster the integration and development of people of determination.

Specialised digital services are also available, including document translation into sign language and Braille educational materials. Websites and services are designed to be user-friendly, with features like adjustable text size, high-contrast colours, and text-to-speech tools to improve information accessibility.

Public facilities and transportation in the UAE feature Braille signage and easy-to-read, clear instructions, reflecting the country’s commitment to accessibility. To further support people with disabilities, technical standards are enforced to adapt roads, vehicles, and transportation systems to their needs. The Ministry of Community Development also issues a card for people of determination, which offers several benefits, including free parking permits and reserved parking spaces.

Sharjah and disabled empowerment: achievements and initiatives

Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the emirate has made significant strides in advancing the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. His leadership has driven Sharjah to fully utilise its resources in support of this community, fostering inclusive education, community initiatives, and robust infrastructure. This commitment has earned Sharjah the title of “Accessible City for Physically Disabled,” highlighting its extensive achievements in disability support.

A key institution in this effort is the “Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS).” SCHS provides a comprehensive range of services aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities through training, education, rehabilitation, and employment.

Additionally, Al Thiqah Club for Disabled, established in 1999 with the support of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, is committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. The club emphasises their integration into society and prepares them for participation in both local and international sports events.

In conclusion, the UAE’s commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities demonstrates its dedication to an inclusive society. By creating opportunities for everyone, including those with disabilities, to contribute actively, the UAE underscores the crucial role of people in societal advancement and progress.

References

[1] u.ae, أصحاب الهمم (الأشخاص ذوي الإعاقة
[2] sheikhdrsultan.ae, سلطان القاسمي يؤكد تسخير كافة الإمكانات لدعم ذوي الإعاقة
[3] schs.ae, مدينة الشارقة للخدمات الإنسانية
[4] sgmb.ae, "الشارقة مدينة صديقة لذوي الإعاقة الحركية و البتر".. تتويجاً لجهود 38 عاماً من العمل و الإنجاز
[5] pchr.gov.ae, الأشخاص ذوي الاعاقة