Doha: On the sidelines of the UAE's participation in the Second World Summit for Social Development, the Zayed Authority for People of Determination (ZAPoD) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Disability Alliance (IDA). The agreement aims to promote knowledge exchange, share expertise, and coordinate global initiatives to empower People of Determination, reinforcing the UAE's role in social inclusion and sustainable development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU was signed by Abdullah Abdulalee Al Humaidan, Director-General of ZAPoD, and Dr Nawaf Kabbara, President of IDA, in the presence of representatives of international organisations and experts participating in the summit. This agreement underscores ZAPoD's commitment to building strategic partnerships with leading international organisations in the field of disability rights, focusing on training, research, and launching joint global initiatives.
The agreement outlines cooperation in supporting the Global Disability Summit 2028 and exploring the possibility of Abu Dhabi hosting the Global Disability Summit 2031 in collaboration with IDA. It also includes organising workshops and training programmes to promote knowledge exchange and social innovation for the benefit of People of Determination.
Abdullah Al Humaidan stated that the MoU represents a new step in international cooperation to strengthen social justice and empower People of Determination worldwide. He emphasized that inclusivity is a national and humanitarian commitment translated into policies that create tangible impacts in people's lives. Through this partnership, ZAPoD aims to unify efforts to support policies and practices that ensure rights and expand opportunities for social participation in alignment with the authority's 2026 Strategy.
Dr Nawaf Kabbara noted that the UAE's experience in integrating and empowering persons with disabilities serves as an international model. He expressed satisfaction with establishing a strong partnership with ZAPoD, which will contribute to developing global initiatives and uniting efforts for more inclusive societies.
Under the agreement, both parties will collaborate in organising joint side events during international conferences, participating in specialised United Nations committees, and developing reports and proposals for joint research and training initiatives. The partnership reflects ZAPoD's ongoing commitment to establishing Abu Dhabi as a global hub for positive impact in the field of disability rights and empowerment, aligning with the leadership's vision of human-centered development.