To mark World Autism Awareness Day, the UAE is strengthening its commitment to inclusivity, ensuring individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have access to supportive environments that promote social integration and long-term development.

A key driver of this effort is the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO), which delivers internationally accredited care and rehabilitation programs to 522 students with autism across Abu Dhabi.

Aisha Al Mansoori, Director of the Abu Dhabi Autism Centre under ZHO, emphasized the importance of collective action, calling on institutions and individuals to enhance awareness—particularly in educational settings—to create a more inclusive society.

She highlighted how early detection is crucial in facilitating integration, stating, “The earlier the intervention, the easier it is to develop the student’s abilities by focusing on education and enhancing their academic and social skills.”

She added that ZHO tailors its programs to each individual, developing specialized training plans and organizing workplace visits to help individuals perform tasks independently based on their specific needs.

ZHO’s influence extends beyond the UAE through its “Bridges of Hope” program, which provides vital support and training to mothers, guardians, and families of individuals with intellectual disabilities and ASD in Egypt. This initiative highlights the organization’s dedication to regional collaboration in advancing autism support services.