UAE commitment to disabled affirmed

The UAE is committed to offering unparalleled opportunities for the disabled and special needs individuals to empower them to realise their potential in a friendly and flexible social environment, affirmed Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group, on Sunday.

He noted that Dubai works to transform into an inclusive and disability-friendly city by 2020.

Sheikh Ahmed made the comments in a statement ahead of AccessAbilities 2016, the Middle East’s largest expo on disabilities and special needs which will be held in Dubai between February 9 and 11.

The event will bring together international experts, professionals, exhibitors and decision- makers on a single platform to showcase products, services and discuss strategies aimed at enhancing the quality of life of more than 750 million people with disabilities worldwide, 50 million of whom are in the Middle East.

Sheikh Ahmed said the expo is also aimed at motivating government authorities and private sector players to change their perception about people with special needs and improve their services to meet their needs, integrate them in the society and enable them to overcome their daily challenges.

AccessAbilities 2016 is being organised by Reed Exhibitions and Nadd Al-Shiba PR and Event Management under the patronage of Sheikh Ahmed, at the Dubai international Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The premier event will provide a dedicated platform that will encourage experts and decision makers from across the world to share knowledge, discuss challenges and solutions to empower individuals with disabilities.

AccessAbilities 2016 will showcase the latest smart technologies that can assist those with disabilities and will include participation from government and private sector organisations from across the healthcare, hospitality, tourism, education, infrastructure, facilities management, transport, consumer electronics and other fields.

The expo is being held in line with the vision of the UAE’s leadership to integrate individuals with special needs into the society and make their lives easier and happier.

The UAE is actively taking initiatives toward integrating and empowering individuals with special needs and making them strong contributors in the nation’s success.

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