DUBAI: H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group affirmed that the UAE has achieved remarkable accomplishments in its legislation, policies, and programmes to empower and integrate People of Determination into society, providing them with equal opportunities in the society.
His Highness inaugurated the 6th edition of AccessAbilities Expo, the largest event for People of Determination in the Middle East, South Asia and Africa, which today opened at Dubai World Trade Centre with a call for concerted social inclusion policy and introduction of more innovative assisted technologies for rehabilitative products to empower People of Determination and enable them to lead a fulfilling life independently.
His Highness stated that the AccessAbilities Expo 2024 reflects the government’s commitment to enabling People of Determination and creating more opportunities for them to live independ
ently and improve their quality of life.
He highlighted the key role played by the private sector in this area, contributing to making the UAE one of the best global societies for this segment, which currently comprises 1.3 billion people worldwide.
He added: “We are pleased to host this unique event in the Middle East, which serves more than 50 million People of Determination living in the region, offering them the opportunity to learn about the best assistive technologies and rehabilitation practices.”
‘The broad participation in this year’s edition provides an opportunity for connection between the community of People of Determination and international exhibitors, benefiting both parties and enhancing Dubai and the UAE’s reputation as an international hub for assistive technologies and the exchange of ideas to build a better future for millions of People of Determination and their families globally.”
More than 250 exhibitors, global brands, and rehabilitation centres from over 50 countries are particip
ating in the event, which is organised by Nadd Al Shiba PR and Exhibitions from October 7-9, 2024, at Halls 6-7-8 of the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, and CEO of Expo City Dubai Authority, said: ‘Inclusion and empowerment are integral to the culture of the UAE and essential for any vibrant, diverse and successful society. Expo 2020 Dubai set new benchmarks for accessibility and Expo City Dubai is committed to further progress, seeking out new technologies and innovative solutions that enhance equality of access for people of determination. Working collaboratively with accessibility pioneers from the global community is the way forward, and we are proud to be partners of the 2024 AccessAbilities Expo.’
Saeed Al Tayer, CEO and Managing Director of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), said: “As a socially responsible organisation and the best friend of People of Determination under the Dubai Government Excellence Programme,
DEWA seeks to present a pioneering and innovative institutional success story in the field of integrating and empowering People of Determination. We aim to inspire and motivate other participating entities and visitors to the expo, in addition to showcasing DEWA’s digital services, which are equally accessible to People of Determination and the rest of society.”
Major General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, said: “Dubai Police are making diligent efforts to develop security and logistics services to meet the needs of People of Determination. These efforts reflect our deep commitment to them, supporting the national policy for empowering People of Determination, Dubai’s Quality of Life Strategy 2033, and the strategy to make Dubai a fully friendly city for People of Determination through the ‘My Community… A City for Everyone’ initiative.”
He added: “We believe that integrating efforts between all government and private institutions is the best way to achieve advanced levels th
at enhance the quality of life for People of Determination. Therefore, Dubai Police, in collaboration with partners, is working to develop services that are more tailored to the needs of People of Determination from various disabilities. We are keen to provide innovative solutions that promote our goals of integration, empowerment, and universal accessibility. Our participation in the AccessAbilities Expo 2024 is an important opportunity to raise awareness of our services and explore the latest technical and technological solutions supporting this community, in addition to strengthening partnerships to achieve more goals and future visions.”
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said: ‘Coinciding with the Expo, the Authority is launching the ‘Mental Health Enhancement Initiative for People of Determination and Their Families,’ which aligns with World Mental Health Day, and the ‘Pioneers of Determination Shop Platform’ to support people of determination in
the fields of entrepreneurship and creativity. This reflects the Authority’s commitment to enhancing their opportunities and empowering them economically and socially.”
She emphasised that through its participation in the Expo, the Authority has focused on presenting a broader and more comprehensive concept for supporting people of determination.
‘This was achieved by launching specialised initiatives and organizing dialogue sessions that address key issues concerning the challenges faced by people of determination and their families, such as mental health, integrating elderly people of determination, and empowering women with disabilities.
“Through sponsoring the sessions at the Knowledge Hub, we aim to provide a dynamic platform for in-depth discussions between experts and community members. The goal is to raise public awareness about the importance of supporting and empowering people of determination, while highlighting the most distinguished experiences and innovative solutions to the most pressing cha
llenges.”
Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: ‘Dubai continues to deliver on its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for People of Determination, driven by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, providing an inclusive and seamless experience for all residents and visitors, and further cementing its status as the world’s best city to visit, live and work in.
‘The AccessAbilities Expo is an opportunity to demonstrate the progress Dubai has made in becoming more accessible, and also provides a platform for the sector to further develop not just here and in the UAE, but also the wider region. Collaborative efforts support us in prioritising the welfare of People of Determination and furthering the city’s position as a global leader, and we are committed to working with all our partners and stakeholders to build on accessibility and high levels
of service across the city that can be experienced by all.’
Source: Emirates News Agency