How UAE families of determination navigate everyday life

Dubai: Raising children with autism in the UAE requires families to plan for everyday activities, such as visiting a doctor, dining out, or traveling through an airport. Parents of People of Determination (POD) have shared that support comes in various forms, including accessible facilities, priority services, healthcare, transport benefits, therapy, support groups, and increasing public awareness.

Inclusion is more than just physical accommodations like ramps and parking spaces; it's about being treated with patience, dignity, and understanding.

Moving to Dubai with her 12-year-old son Ramy, who has autism spectrum disorder, Amanda Al Janahi found leaving home challenging at first. Ramy depended on his comfort items, like his iPad and his grandmother's painting from the US. However, the staff at his assessment appointment welcomed and supported them, making the visit less overwhelming.

Over time, Ramy became more comfortable in various public spaces, including restaurants and hospitals. Amanda credits her family's progress to the POD card and Fazaa benefits, which help with transportation and attraction expenses. These benefits enable her family to keep bringing Ramy out into the community and try new things.

Rizalina Espina, whose 16-year-old daughter Jia has autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, emphasizes that accessibility means more than just physical amenities. For the Espina family, accessibility involves being able to participate in everyday life with dignity, confidence, and a sense of belonging. At Abu Dhabi, Rizalina has noticed greater acceptance of PODs due to benefits like accessible parking, elevators, priority services, healthcare, and transport support. She also highlights the importance of the sunflower lanyard in making hidden disabilities visible.

Parents of children with autism share that support from other families is crucial. For example, Amanda found strength in connecting with other parents through therapy. Laica Hamilton, whose seven-year-old son Justin has autism, has found comfort in Ausome Family Journey, a global support group for People of Determination. Laica feels that this kind of support has helped her understand autism and navigate public spaces, transport, and services.

Pamela Amor Calinog, whose 16-year-old son Daniel has autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability, runs a support group for families to learn about the POD card process and available benefits. For Pamela, inclusion means treating children beyond their diagnosis or limitations, with patience, kindness, and respect.