Empowering Children with Disabilities: National Survey Launched to Support Families

The UAE's Ministry of Family Affairs launched a nationwide survey targeting parents of children with special needs from birth to 18 years old across all emirates. This comprehensive initiative aims to reshape the National Strategy for People of Determination by gathering real insights from families about their actual needs and experiences.

The ministry emphasized that this survey represents a direct opportunity for parents to help shape policies and programs that affect their children's daily lives. Instead of top-down planning, the government wants to build support systems based on what families actually experience from early childhood through adolescence.

The survey covers critical areas that matter most to these families. Parents will answer questions about awareness and support services, screening and diagnosis processes, community participation, social stigma and inclusion challenges, and early intervention services. The questionnaire also examines healthcare costs and insurance coverage, nursery and school experiences, assistive technology access, and how well current services actually work.

The Ministry of Family Affairs partnered with the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority to execute this survey. Parents with multiple children with special needs should focus on their youngest child when responding to ensure data accuracy and easier analysis.

This marks a significant expansion from a similar 2021 survey that only covered Abu Dhabi emirate. Now the government wants input from families across all seven emirates to create a complete picture of needs and gaps in services.

The timing reflects the UAE's broader push to become more inclusive for people with disabilities. The government has been investing heavily in special education, accessibility infrastructure, and support services. But this survey suggests officials recognize that real progress requires understanding what families actually face day-to-day.

For families of children with special needs, this represents a rare chance to directly influence government policy. The data collected will directly feed into service improvements and resource allocation decisions that could affect thousands of families across the country.