UAE Cabinet Unveils First National Strategy for Children with Disabilities

The UAE Cabinet approved a national strategy to promote the rights of children with disabilities and maximise their well-being, and a strategy for motherhood and childhood, as part of the Strategic Plan for the Rights of Children with Disabilities 2017-2021, and the National Strategy for Motherhood and Childhood 2017-2021.

Both Strategies were prepared under the directives of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, as a key reference for decision makers. "People with disabilities represent an integral component of UAE’s society and have the right to enjoy a happy and dignified life like other community groups," said His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

"The UAE attaches special importance to supporting children with disabilities and enabling them to play a constructive and effective role in the development and the achievement of UAE national agenda and vision for 2021," His Highness added. The first draft of the strategy was prepared based on recommendations included in a study included data on groups of children and adolescents in the areas of health, education and other related issues.

The team conducting the study also consulted with forty-five federal and local entities including the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Community Development, Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, Ministry of Education, Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Authority, Abu Dhabi Health Authority, Dubai Health Authority among other international organisations.