Page 33 - AJMAN TOURISM PR REPORT - February 2025

2/27/25, 10:07 AM Ajman Department of Tourism Development and Emirates Autism Society join forces to empower people with autism
The agreement will further strengthen collaborative efforts between both parties to support all societal
segments by utilising their respective resources, such as human capital, technical and technological
capabilities, and accumulated practical expertise. The key goal of this approach is to improve quality of
services offered by ADTD and EAS while reinforcing partnership between them.

His Excellency Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, Director General of ADTD, said: “Our collaboration with
EAS is a testament to our goal to create an inclusive and sustainable tourism experience in the emirate.
Through this MoU, we seek to empower individuals with autism by including them in the tourism sector
through innovative programs and initiatives that boost their role in society. This aligns with our wise

leadership’s vision to offer suitable opportunities for all segments of the society while encouraging
sustainable development in Ajman.”

The MoU creates a comprehensive framework for collaboration between ADTD and EAS across various
areas, such as knowledge exchange and community engagements. By serving as an official document,
it

outlines and defines major areas and objectives of mutual collaboration, paving the way for a productive
strategic partnership. This collaboration is designed to efficiently manage events and initiatives that
support community engagement and enhance the overall quality of life within Ajman.

Ms. Fatima Saif Al Matrooshi, the EAS’s Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors, said: “This MoU

reflects our vision to establish impactful community partnerships focused on empowering people with
autism and unlocking new avenues for their seamless integration and active participation across various
fields, such as the tourism sector. We look forward to working alongside ADTD to achieve the goals of
this initiative, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that enriches the lives of individuals with
autism and strengthens their presence within society.”

Under the agreement, both parties will collaborate to implement various initiatives and events aimed at
fostering the inclusion and empowerment of individuals with autism. These initiatives include tourism,
cultural and sports events, along with other programs with common interest. Furthermore, the
partnership will implement tailored training programs within the tourism sector and hospitality industry to

equip individuals with autism with necessary skills to pursue careers as tour guides.

The agreement further highlights the significance of promoting agricultural products produced by
individuals with autism and exhibiting them at tourism-related events. Both parties will exchange
expertise and consultations to create an inclusive and accessible tourism environment, ensuring
appropriate facilities and support to enhance the experience for individuals with autism.

Additionally, both entities will conduct cultural, artistic and sports workshops and events that encourage
the active participation of individuals with autism, including initiatives like the Run for Autism race. They
will also coordinate efforts to illuminate prominent tourist landmarks in blue on World Autism Awareness
Day as a gesture of support and to raise public awareness. The agreement further outlines a

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