Abu Dhabi to boost services and jobs for seniors and people with disabilities
Abu Dhabi has set out an ambitious plan to boost public access and services and create more jobs for seniors and people with disabilities.
The Department of Community Development and Aldar Properties announced the strategy yesterday, with a pilot taking place on Yas Island in the first quarter of this year.
It will focus on improving physical and digital accessibility to public facilities, transport and housing, as well as education, health, social and entertainment services.
“These services can be inclusive education services at schools, or training staff at hotels to accommodate and provide services to elderly guests or people of determination,” said Sara Bachar, a senior specialist for people of determination at the Department of Community Development. “There are also the water parks – so beyond the infrastructure, it’s about providing services so they can enjoy their journey.”
People of determination is a term used by the UAE government for those with disabilities.
The Yas Island pilot will be assessed next year with a plan to extend it to the rest of the emirate in 2026.
Under the campaign, Abu Dhabi aims to create more than 100 jobs for people with disabilities and secure elderly friendly status from the World Health Organisation.
“It isn’t only about having ramps and areas for us,” said Noura Al Blooki, 33.
At the age of nine, the digital media editor at Abu Dhabi Media had a rare genetic condition called chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy diagnosed.
It affects sensory functions in the arms and legs.
“We would love to see accessible water taxi boats, for example, and services for people with Down syndrome or those with autism,” she said.
“Many are triggered by loud noise, so if there are headphones that could be made available for them and more people educated in how to support them, it would be great.”
Older people have also welcomed the scheme. Salem Saeed, 70, spoke of the need to be given the chance to contribute to society.
“There are many services that could help make our lives easier, but the main thing is that it makes us feel included and not forgotten by society – neglect is what makes us age,” he said.