Landmarks in UAE Turn Blue For Autism Awareness Month

Autism awareness month is every April and so as part of the 15th annual autism awareness campaign launched by the Dubai Autism Center under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, government and private institutions are supporting the Center’s efforts to display key campaign messages digitally on their billboards and screens.

Dubai Water Canal waterfall, and Tolerance bridge turn blue to support the campaign

The screens at the Dubai Metro, tram and bus stations; as well as Enoc gas stations and shopping centres display awareness messages to educate society about the importance of accepting and empowering individuals with autism and integrating them into society.

Rowdah Al Mehrizi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at RTA, said several landmarks and facilities have lit up in blue. These include the Tolerance Bridge, Dubai Water Canal Waterfall, and pedestrian bridges on Al Wasl Street and Al Safa Park.

Mohammed Al Emadi, Director-General and Board Member of the Dubai Autism Centre, said: “We value the efforts of our partners and the solidarity shown by the community ... to enhance community awareness about the needs of individuals with autism and their families. This is in line with the National Policy For Empowering People of Determination to create an inclusive society that ensures empowerment and a decent life for people of determination and their families."

Al Emadi also praised the UAE Cabinet's decision issued at its last meeting to adopt the National Policy for People with Autism.

Speaking on the campaign, Manoj A. Mathew, Territory Head, Zee Entertainment Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan and Turkey (ZEEL) said, “Zee Entertainment Middle East has been associated with the Dubai Autism Center for over a decade to help spread awareness about autism and help highlight the importance of empowering and building an inclusive society. Together we must celebrate the achievements of people who struggle with autism and overcome additional challenges every day. It is our duty as a society to help them collectively. The aim is to use the power of television to create further awareness about autism in collaboration with the Dubai Autism Center. We hope that together all of us can create the change that is necessary in society by uplifting people and being compassionate.”

Image Source: WAM