Abu Dhabi Community Development Authority Encourages Participation in 'Damj' Inclusion Initiative

Abu Dhabi's Department of Community Development has extended the deadline for its Excellence in Inclusion Award to October 31, giving government agencies, private companies, and nonprofits more time to showcase their efforts in integrating people with disabilities into society.

The award, known locally as "Damj," aims to recognize organizations that create meaningful opportunities for people with disabilities. Dr. Layla Al-Hyas, Executive Director of the Family and Child Development Sector, said the extension reflects the department's commitment to giving all entities a fair chance to present their best work.

"This platform encourages organizations to adopt inclusive policies and practices," Al-Hyas explained. The initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi's "Year of Community 2025" and the emirate's broader strategy for supporting people with disabilities.

But this isn't just about handing out awards. The program serves as a practical tool to measure how well organizations are actually integrating people with disabilities into their workforce and services. It helps identify gaps and challenges while pushing institutions to find innovative solutions that improve quality of life for everyone.

Organizations interested in participating can apply through the award's website at damj.gov.ae. The process requires creating an account, filling out a nomination form, and uploading required documents. Once they receive an acceptance notification, applicants have three business days to complete their participation request. Both the nomination and participation applications must be approved for the submission to be considered complete.

The Department of Community Development sees this award as part of a larger effort to build partnerships across different sectors and speed up the adoption of inclusive policies. The goal is to create a cohesive society that embraces all its members, positioning Abu Dhabi as a regional and global leader in disability inclusion and empowerment.

This push for inclusion comes at a time when the UAE is working to diversify its economy and build a more sustainable future. Companies that successfully integrate people with disabilities often find they tap into overlooked talent pools and improve their overall workplace culture.