UAE Zayed Authority Empowers People of Determination in 2025

In 2025, the Zayed Authority for People of Determination continued its pioneering work to support and empower People of Determination (PoD) across the UAE. The Authority’s initiatives focused on education, healthcare, sports, employment, and social inclusion, ensuring PoD can live with dignity and actively contribute to national development.

A key achievement this year was winning the Zero Project Global Award 2026 for its innovative initiative, “Issuing Parking Permits for People of Determination.” The digital system allows users to apply online and receive permits quickly through automated integration with official databases, improving service efficiency and independence for PoD.

In 2025, the Authority became part of Abu Dhabi’s social sector under the Department of Community Development. This change strengthened institutional integration and accelerated progress in achieving inclusive development and improved quality of life for PoD. The Authority also launched its 2026 Strategy, called Nebrasna, built on four pillars: empowerment, inclusion, digital transformation, and community sustainability. An internal plan was introduced to boost awareness and belonging among employees.

Globally, the Authority represented the UAE at the 18th Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18) at the UN in New York, promoting inclusion through effective partnerships. It also participated in the Second Global Social Development Summit in Doha and signed agreements with the International Disability Alliance and the China Disabled Persons’ Federation to exchange expertise and strengthen global initiatives for PoD.

The Authority continued its “Bridges of Hope” program with Egypt, enhancing PoD services through rehabilitation, speech therapy, and family support. It promoted human fraternity globally, collaborating with the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi, coinciding with World Braille Day.

Several new programs were launched in 2025. The Early Intervention – Together We Begin project offers developmental screening for children from birth to eight years. The “We Read” Learning Lab empowers PoD, especially those with cerebral palsy, to complete digital transactions and access advanced educational resources. Additionally, the UAE–Russian Psychology Dictionary Award and two scientific journals were introduced to enhance research in rehabilitation and mental health.

The Authority also advanced vocational and professional skills. The first People of Determination Skills Competition involved 137 students, and nine PoD members became certified baristas under the Specialty Coffee Association Level 1 program. Programs in partnership with the Ministry of Higher Education ensured national accreditation for vocational education at Levels 1 and 2.

Under H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Third International Conference on Advances in Autism Research brought together over 500 specialists. The Authority launched specialized training in psychomotor therapy and creative initiatives like “Gifted Determination,” promoting poetry and artistic expression for PoD.

Other innovative programs include a professional diploma for parents, partnerships with sports federations, an AI-powered robot for issuing PoD cards, and improved mobility services through Q-Mobility.

Through these initiatives, the Zayed Authority for People of Determination continues to strengthen independence, inclusion, and community engagement, contributing to the UAE’s vision of a diverse, inclusive, and sustainable society.