UAE Empowers People of Determination with Inclusive Police Reforms
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has positioned itself as a global leader in promoting disability inclusion and empowerment. With a forward-thinking national agenda, the country has replaced outdated terms like “disabled” or “handicapped” with the more empowering phrase People of Determination (PoD). This shift reflects the UAE’s belief in the strength, potential, and resilience of individuals with disabilities.
This inclusive approach forms the foundation of various government policies, especially in how police and law enforcement agencies engage with People of Determination. The UAE’s efforts aim to ensure equal rights, accessible services, and a dignified life for every citizen, regardless of ability.
UAE’s National Strategy for Empowering People of Determination
Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE has made significant strides in integrating People of Determination into all aspects of public life. In 2017, the government introduced the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination, a comprehensive strategy focused on inclusion across education, employment, healthcare, and public services.
This policy builds on the Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, which legally protects the rights of individuals with special needs. It prohibits discrimination and mandates accessible environments and equal opportunities.
Supporting services like the People of Determination Card and inclusive public transport further reinforce this strategy. From accessible ramps to dedicated parking, city infrastructure across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates has been transformed to cater to diverse needs.
Zayed Higher Organisation: Championing Rights and Services
A key player in this mission is the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO). ZHO is not only a service provider but also a policy influencer and advocate for inclusive development. It delivers services such as care, rehabilitation, and vocational training, while also shaping national and international dialogue on disability inclusion.
ZHO’s commitment to diversity and individual needs is evident in its tailored programs. It recognises that every person’s journey is different and provides personalised support accordingly. Its efforts extend internationally, as ZHO regularly represents the UAE in forums like the UN Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Innovations such as a digital sign language dictionary and tools that improve communication between PoD and law enforcement highlight the organisation’s impact. ZHO bridges the gap between People of Determination and sectors like education, justice, and public services, ensuring their voices are heard and respected.
Law Enforcement and the Importance of Inclusive Interactions
Law enforcement agencies are often the first point of state interaction for the public, making them crucial in shaping perceptions and experiences—especially for People of Determination. However, these interactions can be challenging without proper understanding.
People with hearing impairments, autism, intellectual disabilities, or neurological conditions may struggle to interpret police commands during stressful situations. Their reactions—such as delayed responses, lack of eye contact, or atypical movements—can be misunderstood as non-compliance, creating unnecessary tension.
Without proper training, police officers may interpret such behaviours incorrectly, risking escalation. A rights-based, empathetic approach to law enforcement is essential to prevent such situations and foster safe, respectful encounters.
Police Training and Best Practices for Disability Inclusion
Recognising these challenges, UAE police forces—particularly Dubai Police and Abu Dhabi Police—have implemented extensive training programs designed to improve their interactions with People of Determination.
Dubai Police have introduced online training modules in collaboration with disability experts and advocates. Officers undergo sessions on recognising hidden disabilities, using de-escalation techniques, and approaching interactions with empathy. The use of the sunflower lanyard, a globally recognised symbol of invisible disabilities, helps officers identify and support PoD discreetly and respectfully.
In Abu Dhabi, police have collaborated with ZHO and the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) to introduce simulation-based training. A notable initiative is the “Virtual Check-in Scenario” at the Al Karamah Training Institute, which helps individuals with autism practice airport procedures while training officers to handle such scenarios with care and competence.
In addition to formal training, workshops on sign language, Braille, and disability etiquette have been integrated into police education programs. Designated disability liaison officers within police departments ensure consistent communication, assistance, and advocacy for People of Determination.
Cross-Sector Collaboration for Lasting Impact
One of the UAE’s strengths lies in its multi-stakeholder approach. Law enforcement agencies regularly collaborate with educational institutions, non-profit organisations, and government bodies to improve service delivery for People of Determination.
For example, police departments have partnered with ZHO and ADEK to develop real-world training simulations, ensuring both law enforcement personnel and PoD are equipped to handle interactions confidently and safely.
The Ministry of Interior has launched the “Police Services for People of Determination” online portal. This digital platform ensures accessibility through screen-reader compatibility, simplified interfaces, and remote service access. It empowers PoD to communicate their needs directly and securely with law enforcement agencies.
Building Inclusive Judicial and Legal Systems
The UAE is working to ensure its judicial system is equally accessible. Modifications in courtroom architecture, legal document formats, and interpretation services (such as sign language interpreters) allow People of Determination to fully participate in legal proceedings.
Police academies and legal institutions have integrated disability awareness modules into their curricula, reinforcing an inclusive mindset among future professionals in law enforcement and justice. These educational reforms equip new generations of police officers, judges, and lawyers with the tools they need to respect and protect the rights of PoD.
Additionally, the government has started collecting data on police-PoD interactions to identify gaps, measure success, and refine strategies. Involving People of Determination directly in policy development through consultations and advisory panels ensures that future reforms are grounded in real-life experiences.
Global Alignment and Public Awareness
The UAE’s disability inclusion policies align with international frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), ratified by the UAE in 2010. The country actively participates in global forums and uses international benchmarks to inform national strategies.
Beyond institutions, the UAE is investing in public awareness. National campaigns during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities showcase inclusive achievements and innovations. These initiatives highlight the contributions of People of Determination while educating the broader public about empathy, accessibility, and social responsibility.
Public spaces—like museums, theatres, malls, and transport hubs—are being adapted to accommodate PoD. From tactile art exhibits and captioned cinema screenings to quiet zones for sensory-sensitive visitors, inclusivity is becoming the norm across cultural platforms.
