Today on World Autism Awareness Day, the Dubai Autism Centre inaugurated its 17th annual autism awareness campaign under the sponsorship of His Holiness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a crown Prince of Dubai.
As per the declaration made by the United Nations General Assembly, every year, April 2 is marked as World Autism Awareness Day. This annual initiative was started in 2006, and it aims to raise awareness about autism and promote the inclusion of individuals with autism in society. It includes many activities like free diagnosis, seminars, workshops and events, and lighting up a few private and government landmarks with blue in Dubai that show support for the initiative.
These include Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Frame, Mohammed bin Rashid Library, Tolerance Bridge, Global Village, and Ain Dubai.
This campaign also showcases the innovative skills of children having autism through auctions and art exhibitions.
Hisham Abdullah Al Qassim, Chairman of Dubai Autism Centre, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Dubai Crown Prince for sponsoring the annual autism awareness campaign. He also appreciated the partnership between the private and government sectors for supporting the campaign. He also emphasized the importance of the combined efforts in achieving the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination goals.
Saeedohammwd Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa), said, ” Dewa is committed to supporting the national efforts that contribute to the empowerment of the people in society, in collaboration with the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination. He added, ” This initiative aims to transform Dubai into a city that is friendly for the people, of determination, and we are happy to support the campaign, which strengthens the position of UAE as a leading country in integrating the cause and providing them with a flexible environment to channelize their energies and prove their capabilities with achieving more success.
On this occasion, Al Ansari Exchange declared its support and provided Dh500, 000 to support the initiative and transform it into an annual feature.
This campaign has also been promoted through different media platforms, including cinema and digital screens, with about 1,600 screens in ENOC gas stations, Du stores, Union Coops, Geant, Aswaaq supermarkets, shopping centres, and shopping centres other public spots throughout the UAE.
Art Workshops will be held as a part of this campaign, showcasing the creative skills of children with autism.
This campaign will also feature a series of awareness webinars in schools and public institutions to increase knowledge and promote a better understanding of the various challenges faced by individuals with autism, thereby emphasizing the community support that helps people to deal with the condition.
