Special Olympics International names the UAE a ‘Healthy Community’ for a Second Consecutive Year

 Special Olympics International names the UAE a ‘Healthy Community’ for a Second Consecutive Year

• ADNOC Announced as Strategic Partner for Special Olympics UAE’s Health Programs in 2024.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, November 15, 2023: Special Olympics International has named the UAE a ‘Healthy Community’ for the second consecutive year, marking a significant achievement for the nation.

This accolade underscores the UAE’s unwavering dedication to inclusion, health, and the empowerment of People of Determination, setting an inspiring example on the global stage.

Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Special Olympics UAE, said: “We are honored to be guided by Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed, Honorary Chairperson of Special Olympics UAE. Their continuous support underscores our longstanding belief that that People of Determination are integral to the UAE’s sustainable development and growth and our commitment to advancing their rights and standing in the community.”

“Our meeting today marks a new chapter of success. This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and partnerships that integrate Special Olympics UAE athletes and all People of Determination into society. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our strategic partner, ADNOC Group, for its support of the Special Olympics UAE Health Program and its 2024 initiatives.”

The Special Olympics UAE Awards ceremony recognized 41 organizations that are active in the Healthy Communities Program, including the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, and the Dubai Health Authority. Additionally, 9 medical facilities were accredited as Unified Healthcare providers, including the City University of Ajman and Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences. These establishments have been recognized for their outstanding commitment to implementing health programs for People of Determination within the Healthy Communities Program and the UAE Special Olympics Unified Healthcare Provider Program.

His Excellency Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, said: “Today, we witness the legacy of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 evolving and thriving through the numerous health programs and initiatives introduced in collaboration with our Government and private sectors partners. Our joint efforts focus on providing inclusive healthcare, emphasizing scientific advancements and training for healthcare practitioners. We have organized awareness sessions, workshops, and free medical examinations across the UAE. We align these initiatives with the National Policy for the Empowerment of People of Determination, with health as a top priority.”

In its inaugural year in 2021, Special Olympics UAE met all global criteria to secure the Healthy Community title, making the UAE the first country in the Middle East and North Africa region to achieve this recognition in the program’s first year of implementation nationwide.

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About the Healthy Communities Program:

Special Olympics International launched the Healthy Communities program in 2012, operating in 68 countries. The program aims to end disparities in health services for people of determination worldwide. It provides immediate and long-term community solutions, preventive education, training programs for healthcare professionals, and specialized healthcare access to players. The program’s proactive approach addresses the unique health concerns of people of determination, ensuring they receive the best possible care.

About the Unified Healthcare Provider Program:

The Unified Healthcare Providers Program, initiated in 2021 in collaboration with key organizations, provides specialized training for medical staff and healthcare workers catering to people of determination. The program focuses on enhancing healthcare experiences, facilitating easy access to medical services, and providing compassionate support tailored to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It aims to improve the understanding and treatment of people of determination and their families, aligning with the National Policy for the Empowerment of People of Determination.

About Special Olympics UAE:

In October 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced Special Olympics UAE as an independent organization dedicated to changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Her Highness Sheikha Maryam Bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was appointed the Honorary President—her Excellency Shamma Bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees.

The organization aims to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sports while providing leadership opportunities to help them display their talents and integrate them with mainstream society.

Special Olympics UAE has launched various community programs focused on families and young athletes. It has also introduced a number of initiatives to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to create a more inclusive society.

The Special Olympics of the UAE received international recognition from the International Special Olympics Foundation-USA in December 2017. 

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