Mansoor bin Mohammed Strengthens Dubai’s Commitment to Empowering People of Determination with 10,363 Wellbeing Calls
Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination, chaired the Committee’s second meeting in 2026 at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The meeting included committee members and representatives from various government entities in Dubai.
This gathering is part of ongoing efforts to create an integrated system that protects the rights of People of Determination and promotes their active participation across multiple sectors. This initiative reinforces Dubai’s status as a global model for inclusive and accessible cities.
H.H. Sheikh Mansoor emphasized that Dubai is committed to strengthening its approach to safeguarding the rights of People of Determination through a comprehensive government framework. This framework prioritizes individuals in policy-making and service delivery, ensuring a supportive environment that allows People of Determination to access opportunities and fully engage in societal development.
He stated that empowering People of Determination is a collective responsibility that requires collaboration between government entities and the community. This collaboration aims to translate policies into actionable services and initiatives that directly impact the lives of individuals and families. The Higher Committee will continue to monitor implementation, assess impact, and develop initiatives aligned with Dubai’s vision for a more inclusive and sustainable society.
Communication Initiative
During the meeting, the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai presented its efforts to enhance direct communication with People of Determination across the emirate. As part of a qualitative initiative, the CDA completed 10,363 calls aimed at checking on their wellbeing, identifying needs, and improving communication channels. This initiative reflects the readiness of the social services system to reach target groups under various circumstances.
The calls included 693 conversations with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals through the Sanad Relay application, along with 9,670 calls made to People of Determination from other disability categories.
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of the CDA, remarked that the communication initiative exemplifies the CDA’s proactive approach and commitment to ensuring social services remain accessible to all community members, especially during exceptional circumstances. Direct communication has proven to be an essential tool for reassurance, understanding needs, and fostering trust between People of Determination, their families, and the responsible entities.
She further noted that protecting the rights of People of Determination begins with listening to them and addressing their needs, which can then be transformed into more effective services and initiatives. The CDA continues to collaborate with partners to ensure that Dubai remains an inclusive city in its services, environment, and opportunities.
Educational Initiatives
Under the inclusive education pillar, the KHDA presented several initiatives aimed at improving access for students of determination to more flexible and inclusive educational pathways. These initiatives include adopting reference options for international curricula and alternative pathways tailored to Dubai’s context.
Additionally, the KHDA is developing an integrated regulatory framework for licensing and quality assurance related to specialized programs for students of determination. A financial and guidance support program for Emirati parents is also being prepared to facilitate access to alternative curricula and environments, while enhancing national recognition of these educational pathways.
Healthcare Services Showcase
In the realm of inclusive healthcare, Dubai Health outlined key healthcare services for People of Determination. These services focus on prevention and early detection, including premarital genetic screening, prenatal genetic screening, and early assessments for diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder. The healthcare offerings also encompass early intervention centers and specialized care and rehabilitation services.
Dubai Health is also involved in education and scientific research programs, including residency and fellowship programs that support People of Determination. Advanced research in genomics and neurodevelopment contributes to early disease diagnosis. Furthermore, Dubai Health has provided academic and research grants in priority healthcare fields, implementing community programs aimed at empowering People of Determination and their families while promoting community health.
Key Accessibility Drives
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai reviewed initiatives to enhance access to transport services, facilities, and parking spaces for People of Determination. These measures include allowing free use of paid parking spaces, installing awareness signage in designated parking areas, and raising public awareness about the importance of obtaining permits for designated parking spaces.
The RTA also highlighted the technical integration between Parkin Company and the CDA to verify the validity of the ‘Sanad’ card before issuing permits. An initiative to install monitoring cameras for designated parking spaces was also discussed to ensure procedural accuracy and that services reach eligible beneficiaries.
The Committee reviewed updates on the implementation of the 2026 work plan, focusing on developing the inclusive services ecosystem for People of Determination in Dubai.
Training and Awareness
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHRD) is working on developing the Inclusive Employment Policy and Procedures Guide. This includes implementing training and awareness programs to enhance workplace readiness and designing vocational rehabilitation programs for People of Determination.
Additionally, the Dubai Municipality is strengthening the implementation of the Dubai Building Code (DBC) and developing supportive legislation to ensure compliance with accessibility requirements. Efforts are also underway to enhance digital integration with Google Maps to identify and upload accessible locations for People of Determination.
Sign Language Charter
The meeting concluded with the signing of the ‘Dubai Communicates in Sign Language Pledge’ for the Deafness and Hearing Impairment community. This pledge represents a commitment to promoting inclusive communication and accessibility, ensuring the rights of the deaf and hard of hearing are protected for their equal participation in society.
The pledge was signed by various entities, including Dubai Police, the RTA, the CDA, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Health, KHDA, DGHRD, Dubai Sports Council, and Dubai Health, affirming the integration of government efforts to develop more inclusive services for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
The meeting underscored the importance of continued collaboration among member entities and the acceleration of approved initiatives to enhance the quality of life for People of Determination, develop efficient and inclusive services, and reinforce Dubai’s model in protecting rights and empowering individuals.
During his visit, Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed toured the KHDA offices in Dubai, where he was briefed on the Authority’s workflow and key initiatives for inclusive education services provided for People of Determination. This tour highlighted KHDA’s commitment to creating more inclusive and flexible learning environments, aligning with Dubai’s vision to enhance quality of life and strengthen its position as an inclusive, accessible, and people-friendly city.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-05-19 21:46:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk