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Abu Dhabi Airports, Etihad Airways Join Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways have announced the launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and onboard Etihad Airways flights.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, a globally recognised symbol for non-visible disabilities, provides a discreet way for passengers with conditions like autism, chronic pain, or anxiety to signal to staff that they may require additional assistance or compassion.

“It’s about recognising that the kindest gestures are the ones that acknowledge unseen challenges,” commented Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, adding: “This means our staff are now even better equipped to assist passengers who may require a little extra time, understanding, or assistance, ensuring a smoother and more positive experience for everyone.”

Both AUH and Etihad Airways have reportedly implemented comprehensive staff training to ensure effective implementation.

It was explained that this includes frontline teams from the airport, its stakeholders, and business partners, who have undergone specialised training to understand the needs of passengers with hidden disabilities better and provide appropriate assistance.

Staff members who have completed the training will wear a Sunflower pin to denote being trained supporters of the initiative.

Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO) is the exclusive manufacturer and production centre for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyards in the GCC region.

“Everyone has the right to travel and explore the world on their own terms. To ensure that every individual can fully enjoy their journey, we must make travel accessible and inclusive for all. The Sunflower lanyard is a simple yet powerful tool that helps create a more supportive environment for travellers with non-visible conditions, ensuring that everyone can travel with confidence and ease,” said H.E. Abdulla Abdulalee Abdulla Al Humaidan, Secretary-General at Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination.

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DCD, PureHealth Partner to Promote Inclusivity in Healthcare Sector

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

The Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PureHealth aimed at promoting inclusivity within the healthcare sector.

The MoU will facilitate the employment of approximately 100 “people of determination” over the next two years in the healthcare sector.

According to the two parties, this will be accompanied by the development of supportive and enabling services and programmes.

“People of determination make up an important segment of our society, and we believe they have the ability to contribute effectively to enhance the prosperity and development of Abu Dhabi,” said His Excellency Engineer Hamad Ali Al Dhaheri, Undersecretary of the Department of Community Development.

“From this standpoint, our strategic partnership with PureHealth is an important step forward in enhancing the role of the private sector in providing services and fully implementing them within a development and sustainable framework,” he added.

The MoU between DCD and PureHealth encompasses four additional pillars of collaboration, including the enhancement of the data system for people of determination and the improvement of social care services that support independent living within the community.

The two will also have a joint focus on research and innovation to influence policy development and solutions that enhance the quality of life for people of determination.

In addition, the collaboration will expand PureHealth’s existing volunteer programme, “PureHeroes,” to include specialised volunteer opportunities aimed at serving people of determination across various specialities, it was shared.

Alongside this MoU, PureHealth has launched the ‘Empowering Abilities Programme’ focused on the inclusion of people of determination within the health sector, which it said features a “robust” framework of procedures and policies to guide implementation.

As part of this initiative, the company said that it will introduce flexible working hours, designated seating in training sessions, and enhanced internet accessibility through assistive technologies.

Shaista Asif, Group Chief Executive Officer at PureHealth, commented: “At PureHealth, we champion true inclusion by empowering every individual to contribute to the nation’s growth. Our efforts to promote diversity and support initiatives for people of determination are integral to our vision for advancing the science of longevity. In accordance with the UAE Centennial plan 2071, we are committed to fostering a cohesive society by creating an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all talents.”

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DEWA receives top score for accessibility to People of Determination across its website and smart app

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

DEWA has announced that it has received top marks for accessibility across its app and website. Its smart app scored 10/10 for the fourth consecutive year, while its website scored 100 per cent for the third consecutive year for compliance with government standards related to accessibility for People of Determination (POD).

This was highlighted by the 2023 POD Accessibility Evaluation Report by Digital Dubai Authority.

DEWA’s website includes a digital sign language interpreter powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), available 24/7, to enhance the accessibility of information and translate the webpage content into sign language for people with hearing impairment.

The colour of the website can also be changed to suit customers with colour blindness, while the font size can be enlarged to make it easier for those who are visually impaired to read.

Likewise, it includes an accessibility feature and image description to help customers of determination get information about an image by clicking on it, while the shortcut feature reduces text and facilitates navigation between web pages.

Meanwhile, DEWA’s smart app is compatible with various smartphones and devices and includes a screen reader; the screen colour can also be changed to suit the needs of customers with visual impairment.

It also provides easy ways to enter data through lists, radio buttons, check boxes, or by automatically entering known information such as date, time, and location.

Further, DEWA’s Hayak service, an online text and video-chat service on DEWA’s smart app and website, allows customers to communicate directly with its call centre staff.

Rammas, DEWA’s virtual employee, uses AI to answer written queries and audio chat in Arabic and English.

The Smart Response service for technical reports for electricity and water services, it was shared, also prioritises people of determination, senior citizens, and people on life-support equipment.

Speaking about the different features DEWA offers across its app and website, HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, said: “We are committed to developing DEWA’s digital services in accordance with the government standards and best international practices to facilitate the access of employees and customers of determination. This is in line with the National Strategy for Innovation, which aims to make the UAE one of the most innovative nations in the world and utilise digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to elevate performance and improve the lives of all segments of society.”

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Jumeirah Creekside Hotel earns Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) status

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Jumeirah Creekside Hotel has become the first Jumeirah property to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) status, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

CAC designation is awarded to organisations that deliver a welcoming environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and their families.

This effort aligns with Dubai’s city-wide initiative, led by the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), to establish the city as the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere.

Granted by IBCCES, this certification is awarded to communities offering a selection of autism-certified accommodations, leisure, and entertainment options to create an inclusive environment for autistic guests and individuals with sensory sensitivities.

The certification process sees hotel staff undergo training on autism and sensory awareness, while an on-site assessment is also conducted to develop sensory guides — a tool designed to enhance the guest experience by providing essential information about specific facilities and locations in the hotel.

These guides include details regarding lighting, noise, and other sensory inputs, empowering guests with the information they need before entering these areas.

Speaking about the certification, Andy Cuthbert, General Manager of Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, said: “The autism certification holds immense importance for Jumeirah Creekside Hotel. It signifies our continuous effort to create an environment where empathy, understanding, and inclusivity are paramount. It’s about fostering an atmosphere where every guest, including those on the autism spectrum, feels supported and valued throughout their experience.”

Meanwhile, Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman, said: “Jumeirah Creekside Hotel’s achievement marks a significant step in Dubai’s journey toward becoming a more accessible and inclusive destination. As the inaugural Jumeirah property to receive the Certified Autism Center™ designation, the hotel not only sets a model for others in the city, but also contributes to redefining hospitality standards. We hope this accomplishment will spark inspiration among fellow Jumeirah properties, urging them to join this movement and make meaningful contributions to Dubai’s mission of creating a more accessible and inclusive environment.”

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Ooredoo Kuwait and Cafe 312 announce collaboration

by Madaline Dunn
written by Madaline Dunn

Telecommunications company Ooredoo Kuwait has announced its collaboration with Cafe 312.

Cafe 312, it was shared, is the first cafe in Kuwait entirely staffed by individuals with disabilities.

The collaboration aims to illuminate the cafe’s business model and highlight the invaluable contributions of its employees.

The cafe was named in honour of International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 and provides meaningful employment opportunities to individuals with special needs and disabilities.

Speaking about the collaboration, Naser Al-Abdullah, Director of Marketing Communication & Social Media at Ooredoo Kuwait, said. “At Ooredoo Kuwait, we firmly believe in the power of diversity and inclusion to drive positive change and create a more equitable society. Our partnership with Cafe 312 is a testament to our commitment to providing equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.”

As part of the collaboration, Ooredoo Kuwait will closely work with Cafe 312 to raise awareness about the importance of inclusivity.

Joint initiatives and community outreach programs will also be implemented to highlight the achievements of individuals with disabilities and special needs.

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