Saturday June 26th, 2010 was a noisy afternoon at Le Meridien Dubai, a regular supporter of DAC Staff Club, who went the extra mile and invited DAC staff for a lavish lunch buffet at the Yalumba Restaurant-Australian Cuisine in Le Meridien Dubai, Garhoud. DAC staff Club was established to motivate and encourage the staff for their outstanding contribution to the center.

As expected, the food was divine, the ambiance was perfect and the staff had a wonderful time before everyone left for the summer break. The Yalumba Restaurant staff was very courteous and served everyone with enthusiasm. Le Meridien Dubai has always supported the efforts of DAC Staff Club by providing vouchers for various occasions.

9 June 2010: Dubai Autism Center has welcomed the hand ball team of Al Shabab Al Arabi Club on Tuesday 8 June 2010 in a visit to the Center. The visit began with a presentation on Autism Spectrum Disorders and the center's services delivered by Sarah Ahmed Baker, community service unit head. The team members toured the DAC various units and classrooms, they shared with the children their activities and distribute gifts for them.

The team was welcomed by Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi, Director General and Board Member of DAC, who said: "As part of the international community, great men embrace their humanitarian responsibility to play a role in developing the society, I'm so glad that we are not alone in our efforts to bring awareness on Autism to the community and the medical profession."

7 June 2010: For the first time in the UAE and the region, the Speech-communication Unit at the Dubai Autism Centre (DAC) in cooperation with the Al Wasl Hospital conducted a professional symposium on the latest approaches of speech and communication therapy as a concluding event of the speech and communication disorders awareness month (May).

During the first session, Dr. Salah Al Shalan, from the New England Centre for Children - Abu Dhabi (NECC-AD),, presented some techniques used with children with Autism in different aspects of speech pathology, assessment and diagnosis. PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) program was introduced by Bethan Rebecca, speech therapist at the DAC. Kamilini Jasim, speech-communication coordinator at Al Noor Training Centre for Children with Special Needs spoke about the communications disorders. Tasbih Amin, DAC speech therapist, highlighted the stimulation techniques for communications on children with Autism. In conclusion, Jessica Shaw, DAC speech therapist, spoke about the signed language Makaton, which uses speech and gesture, facial expression, eye contact and body language.

Mohammed Fteiha, Speech-Communication Unit head of DAC and the coordinator of the event pointed that it is important to empower speech therapists and all special educators in the UAE with the latest approaches and methods to provide efficient and effective services for individuals with speech disorders.

“About 5-10% of children in the schools have a developmental disability that causes a delay in their speech and language development. It is important to keep in mind that language development involves more than just speech, it also includes other forms or communication, such as sign language, writing, and visual skills,” he elaborated.

Amal Al Shamlan, head of the rehabilitation section at Al-Wasl hospital, said: “this event provides a good opportunity for sharing new ideas and information about the latest approaches in speech and communication therapy to all those who work in the field,”

The Noble Humanitarian Awards Middle East honored Dubai Autism Center at an event held at the Emirates Palace-Abu Dhabi on April 24th 2010, among the recognized outstanding charity organisation-honourees this year.

The event was attended and performed by top Arab celebrities as a prestigious annual gathering that recognises the achievements of philanthropic organisations and honours regional charities for their outstanding humanitarian programs.

On the stage, Mr. Mohammed Bin Sulayem, FIA Vice President and President of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE, in his part awarded the DAC representative Ms. Sara Ahmed Baker, Head of Community Service Unit on behalf of the Center.

The gala is being organised by The Celebrity Charity Awards Corporation, a U.S non-profit organisation working to unify the efforts of charities with celebrities, influencers, media and citizens to create an effective forum for change.

Under the patronage of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the winners of the 2nd Princess Haya Award for Special Education were announced at an official ceremony on Monday April 12th 2010 at Dubai’s Madinat Jumeirah. Attending on Princess Haya’s behalf was H.E. Dr. Mariam Al Roumi, Minister of Social Affairs, who was joined by senior government officials, heads of departments, public and private sector representatives and other dignitaries.

Dubai Autism Center won three different awards in the categories of Best Website, Best Awareness Campaign and Outstanding Administration Employee, which was received by Alaa Al Zoubi.

The Princess Haya Award for Special Education was launched on November 2008 to be the first initiative of its kind in the region. It recognizes the best individuals in the special needs sector through various categories according to high international standards. The initiative also aims to encourage people working in the special needs to excel and set higher service standards in all fields of special education.

Mr. Mohammed Bin Sulayem, FIA Vice President and President of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), visited Dubai Autism Center as a sign of his interest and concern about the growing incidence of Autism amongst children in the UAE.
Expressing his concern for the Center Bin Sulayem autographed in the VIP’s guest book, “Together again, we meet in a very close place to my heart. I wish you every success in your commendable efforts,”
Al Emadi said “Bin Sulayem’s initiative shows his genuine concern about current social issues; he has demonstrated extreme altruism by not only agreeing to the various proposals put forward by the center but insisting on expanding his involvement and help over a long period. The center is looking forward to have Bin Sulayem as a supporter and an advocate for the Autism cause.”

RTA included Individuals with Autism on the list of beneficiaries of special needs facilities
This recent development is in line with RTA’s ongoing drive to adopt the best practices in order to improve the services available for people with special needs.
Based on the feedback provided by people with special needs the council has incorporated the package of solutions for individuals with Autism, visual and hearing imparity and the physically challenged individuals.
RTA will provide special needs parking stickers to their vehicles or of their relatives and the related organizations. The solutions also include issuing cards with their photographs and designated counters at customer service centre.
For a more detailed account, please refer to the link below:
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/traffic-transport/autistic-people-to-get-special-services-1.577175

Dubai December 9, 2009 - Amitabh Bachchan’s 2nd visit to Dubai Autism Center was a sign of his continuous support to the Autism cause and the center. Parents and DAC staff waited impatiently for Mr. Bachchan to arrive.
In spite of his tight schedule, Mr. Bachchan took the time to take pictures with the many parents and answer their questions. He also insisted on visiting the classrooms and talk to the children and their teachers.
His care and support was most visible when he insisted on not disappoint the children who were unavailable in their classroom, he waited for them to finish their therapy sessions and took pictures with them. While waiting he signed autographs to everyone and accommodated his DAC fans requests.

On October 18, 2009, the staff and children of Dubai Autism Center joined hands and stood up in support of eradicating Hunger and Poverty in the world by 2015. The event was held under the patronage of HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of H.H Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Makhtoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai. We all took a pledge to work towards and help in eliminating Hunger and Poverty from this earth! DAC’s eagerness to be a part of “Stand up, Take Action Millennium” Campaign originated from our belief that every individual can contribute to the society and make a difference.

18th Oct 2009: Autism is the most prevalent childhood developmental disorder, according to a new study published in Pediatrics (the American Academy of Pediatrics' official journal on October 5, 2009) there has been a significant increase in Autism cases in comparison to previous years. The study shows that 1 in every 91 children and 1 in 58 boys has Autism. The previous Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) prevalence estimate reported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in 2007 was approximately 1 in 150 and 1 in 94 boys.

“These new numbers should serve as a renewed call to action to take on what is clearly a major public health crisis not only in this country, but around the world,” said Bob Wright, co-founder of Autism Speaks. ...Read More...

29th Sep 2009: Under the slogan “Think of Autism.. Think of Giving” Dubai Autism Center (DAC) concludes its second Ramadan campaign to improve the social concern on Autism and to raise funds for the services provided to the children with Autism at the DAC. The campaign has covered many public places in Dubai such as Dubai Mall, Mercato, Dubai Festival City, Arabian Center, Dubai Marina Mall, Jumeira Beach Residence, and Dubai Cooperative Societies.

Sara Ahmad Baker, Community Service Unit Head at Dubai Autism Center, said: “Ramadan Campaign has achieved an expected response from the public; people in the UAE community now are more curious to know about Autism as well as more willing to support the cause,” ...Read More...

Princess Haya Honours the Winners of Special Education Award
"Seven awards presented to the DAC"

HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, wife of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE, Ruler of Dubai, honoured on Sunday 12 April 2009 the winners of the Princess Haya Award for Special Education created to recognize the excellence demonstrated by employees in the Special Needs sector. Senior government officials, heads of departments, public and private sector representatives and other dignitaries were present at the awards ceremony held at the Madinat Jumeirah.

Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi, head of the Award's executive committee, emphasised the significant impact of the Award's on the special education sector and underlined its importance in promoting excellence in the work place amongst the different categories of Special Needs employees. Faten Hani, Head of the Jury said: “We have established ...Read More...

‘Rock On’ Movie Stars visits Dubai Autism Center

The cast from one of 2008’s biggest hits, ‘Rock On’ was all set to dazzle the city of Gold as it travels to an international destination for the first time with famed trio, Shankaar, Ehsaan & Loy on March 12th 2009. Produced and conceptualized by Wizcraft International Entertainment Pvt Ltd and promoted by Event Concept, the Rock On-Live in Dubai concert was all set to mesmerize its Dubai fans and Indian cinema lovers coming March. The songs that have already topped the charts and well received by both young and the old, now rocked Dubai as the stars and the musicians perform at the popular Aviation Club together on Thursday 12 March. The Aviation Club experienced the magic of the ‘Rock On’ team & Shankar – Ehsaan –Loy for the very first time. The Rock On concert has also partnered with Dubai Autism Center (DAC) to create awareness about Autism as a condition to be dealt with in the right manner. In the recent months, Carrying on this tradition Wizcraft International has tied up with DAC for its Rock On Concert. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi, Board Member and Director General of DAC highlighted the role corporations’ play to achieve the Center’s goals: “We are very grateful for the unwavering support by Wizcraft. One of our primary goals as a center is to bring back children with Autism in the mainstream society by raising awareness about Autism, and I believe Wizcraft will help us in achieving this goal, by being a role model to other organizations. The support by the Rock On concert and visit by its team provide new inspiration for children with Autism. Every ‘Rock On’ ticket was given with a blue Autism Band and AED 10 given to DAC for every ticket sold. Additionally, 20 premium seats at the concert venue were sold at a special price, the proceeds of which also were donated to DAC.

Abhishek Bachchan visits Dubai Autism Center

The Dubai Autism Center has welcomed Abhishek Bachchan, who is visiting Dubai for the premiere of his latest Hindi film ‘Delhi 6’. Mr. Bachchan visited the center to express his strong support for its initiatives and activities. He was received by Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi, Board Member and Director General of the Dubai Autism Center. Abhishek Bachchan toured the Centre’s classrooms, where he met with the children and Special Educators, and learned more about this challenging disorder, and the services that the Center provides. Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi said: “the visit reflects Abhishek Bachchan’s concern for people with special needs and his keenness to understand and find out more about the disorder,” “His visit left a lasting impression on all staff members… It was a strong expression of his commitment towards humanitarian initiatives like the DAC,” Al Emadi stressed the importance of the support that the Dubai Autism Centre gets from its permanent partners and the involvement of the larger community in achieving its goals. He reiterated DAC's strong focus on providing quality educational services in line with the highest international standards. He also thanked all those who have contributed to the DAC's efforts to support children and families affected by autism. Abhishek Bachchan referred to his father’s earlier visit and said that he was also very moved when he met the children two years ago. Signing the guest book, he wrote “Thank you for allowing me to visit the Dubai Autism Center. Wish you all the best for the wonderful work you are doing”. At the end of the visit, Al Emadi thanked him for his short but meaningful gesture and pointed out that visits such as these are the key factors behind the DAC's success and achievements.

McDonald's UAE donates Dhs 120,000 to Dubai Autism Center

Concluding its World Children's Day campaign for 2008, under the theme 'Together we reach their hearts', McDonald's UAE held a memorable celebration at the premises of Dubai Autism Center where a donation of Dhs120,000 was made for the benefit of its children. Commenting on the success of the campaign, Rafic Fakih, Managing Director of McDonald's UAE said: 'Success has been the companion of the World Children's Day campaign for the past 7 years due to the valued support from thousands of individuals and families in the Emirates. We would like to extend sincere thanks to all contributors and share with them our celebration today in addition to the smiles they helped us draw on the faces of the children of Dubai Autism Center.' Receiving the donation, Sarah Al Marzooqi, OT-Creative Unit Coordinator, Dubai Autism Center, commented: 'We would like to express our gratitude to all the people who took part in this humanitarian initiative and special thanks to McDonald's UAE for their ongoing commitment to help needy children in the Emirates.' McDonald's launched the World Children's Day campaign in mid October and generated part of the donation funds from the sales of the special WCD wristband.

Dubai Autism Center contributes in Gaza relief goods

Sunday 18 January: In a response to Dubai Cares’ call for Gaza relief goods, the Dubai Autism Center’s staff joined to help package 50,000 basic school kits and 50,000 hygiene kits for the Children of Gaza. Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi, Board Member and Director General at DAC emphasizes the role of government and private sector in mobilizing the efforts of the community under a united front of UAE-based relief and charitable organizations to pledge humanitarian assistance to help the children of Gaza. He called to establish a bank for volunteers in the emirate of Dubai that embraces various categories of volunteers on demand at all times for more organized missions.

HH Sheikh Majid Visits DAC to Support Its Initiatives

HH Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, on Wednesday 12th Nov 2008, visited Dubai Autism Centre to express his strong support for its initiatives and activities. He was received by Mohammed Al Emadi, General Manager and Member of the Board of Directors of the Dubai Autism Centre, Members of the Board as well as other staff members.

HH Sheikh Majid toured the Dubai Autism Centre and its facilities and expressed keen interest in knowing more about its services and the initiatives being undertaken to improve them. In his presence, the DAC team presented a report on its specialized services for people and families affected by autism as well as its campaign to raise autism awareness.

The Governor of DIFC on behalf of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed, chaired the Board meeting of Dubai Autism Center

The Dubai Autism Center held its regular Board Meeting , chaired by HE Dr. Omar Mohammad Bin Suleiman, Governor of DIFC, Vice Chairman and board member of Dubai Autism Center, on 19th October 2008, to update the members with an overview of the Center’s achievement and level of services offered, as well as future plans and progress.

The meeting commenced with HE Dr Omar Mohammad Bin Suleiman, who thanked Dubai Autism Center staff, management, educators, and families on behalf of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, for their efforts in achieving the Center’s goals and the progress that has taken place in such a short time.

Recognizing Mohammed Al Emadi within the DGEP Founders

In the gala ceremony of the Dubai Government Excellence Program (DGEP) awards 2008 which attended by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Autism Center’s Director General Mr. Mohammed Al Emadi has been recognized within DGEP Award founders.

The Program represents an effective integrated tool for the development of Dubai government sector in order to excel in its performance, services, results and professional activities.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, announced the results and nominate the winners of 172 nominations from 18 governmental departments in all categories.

The 10th anniversary of the Dubai Government Excellence Program Award ceremony was held at Madinat Jumeirah, in Jumeirah Arena on Sunday May 18th and was attended by dignitaries, diplomats, senior, government officials and others.

Tamayoz Award Announced to DAC

Mr. Mohammed Fteiha, Speech & Communication Unit Coordinator at DAC, won The HMSCD Tamayoz Award this year for the Nursing and Healthcare Professional field.

The HMSCD Tamayoz Awards this year had received a significant response from across the GCC region. Physicians, nurses, research scientists and allied health professionals aged less than 40 years were eligible for the awards that are rapidly gaining ground as one of the region's most distinguished recognitions for dedicated work in healthcare.

As part of DAC April Campaign UK Artist Stephen Wiltshire’s Giant Canvas on Display at DIFC

Within the events of April Autism Campaign, which is organized by Dubai Autism Center, "Dubai Panorama", the incredible canvas by the gifted artist Stephen Wiltshire, hosted by the Dubai International Financial Center DIFC and located in its lobby.

Visitors to the DIFC will be able to marvel at the panoramic Dubai canvas by world renowned UK artist Stephen Wiltshire; a gifted painter with severe Autism who managed to take a mental snapshot of the city after a mere 30 minute helicopter ride over Dubai.

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