The Dubai Autism Centre has inaugurated the first Arabic podcast studio dedicated to discussing the issues faced by individuals with autism.

This initiative was unveiled at the conclusion of the Centre's 19th awareness campaign for autism, which commenced at the beginning of April and lasted for one month, under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Vice President of the Council of Ministers, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai.

Mohamed Al Amadi, General Director of the Dubai Autism Centre and a board member, stated that this achievement crowns a series of initiatives and events organized by the Centre throughout April, in alignment with the goals of the 'Year of Society'.

The podcast studio's opening is described as a significant step in the Centre's mission to enhance community awareness of autism.

The platform aims to amplify the voices of individuals with autism, their families, and caregivers transparently and clearly, particularly within the Arab world, showcasing their stories and experiences to foster a more inclusive and understanding society.

Al Amadi expressed gratitude towards OP3 Design for their contribution in designing, implementing, and sponsoring the podcast studio, noting that the inaugural episode will be presented by Joyce Chamoun, the Centre's Business Development Manager.

Regarding the campaign's key outcomes, Al Amadi highlighted that this year’s campaign included weekly virtual and in-person workshops on autism awareness, reaching a total of 1,182 schools, comprising 673 public and 509 private institutions.

The initiative also featured informative lectures directed at approximately 1,500 employees across various public and private organizations.

The Centre's community awareness team participated in several forums and panel discussions addressing contemporary issues related to autism, including events held by the Dubai Health Authority and Abu Dhabi University.

Moreover, the campaign announced a new group of autism-friendly organizations in Dubai, such as the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, the Union Cooperative Society, and Mercato Mall.

These organizations received certification as autism-friendly environments, highlighting their commitment to the principles of inclusion and sustainability and supporting the initiative 'My Community...

A Place for All’, aimed at transforming Dubai into a model city that is friendly to individuals with disabilities by creating environments that facilitate their active participation in all aspects of life.

According to Al Amadi, the campaign garnered significant engagement in disseminating its message via digital platforms and screens belonging to various government and private entities, exceeding 3,150 digital display screens in diverse locations across the nation.

These included metro and bus stations managed by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, ENOC fuel stations, shopping centers, as well as advertisements displayed in Novo Cinemas and through 'Zee' satellite channels in both Arabic and English.