Special Olympics UAE Signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the American University in Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – December 11, 2023: Special Olympics UAE and the American University in Dubai (AUD) have signed a memorandum of understanding that aims to boost cooperation and exchange of valuable experience and knowledge related to sports activities for People of Determination.

The MoU raises awareness about the significance of inclusion in society and methods to achieve it. Additionally, the MoU terms involve facilitating volunteer opportunities for AUD students during competitions, tournaments, events, and initiatives organized by Special Olympics UAE across the emirates.

The MoU was signed by His Excellency Talal Al Hashemi, National Director, Special Olympics UAE, and Dr Lance De Massey, President of the American University in Dubai. The comprehensive terms of the agreement encompass various collaborative initiatives, including organizing workshops in partnership with AUD’s College of Education, aimed at coaches, technicians, and administrators working within the sports sector.

His Excellency Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, said: “This MoU marks a strategic extension of Special Olympics UAE’s ongoing efforts to integrate People of Determination in society. The training programs, offered within the framework of this MOU, will open new horizons of knowledge for coaches and trainers, and we are proud of this remarkable collaboration with the American University in Dubai.”

Dr Lance DeMassie, President of the American University in Dubai, said: “As an educational institution, we are dedicated to eliminating discrimination and fostering a society that champions social inclusion, aligning with the aspirations of the UN’s SDGs. The positive impact of empowering People of Determination in sports and well-being cannot be denied or unseen in the UAE, and collaborations – such as ours today – play a pivotal role in enhancing the capabilities of American University in Dubai students, which helps them elevate their social and humanitarian awareness levels.

Following the MoU signing, a panel discussion moderated by Dr Nadra Al-Borno, the Dean and Professor of Education at the American University in Dubai, was organized. The discussion covered the importance of inclusion in local communities and emphasized sports as an essential element to achieving community harmony. Dr Al-Borno led a comprehensive review of inclusion challenges, strategies, correct administrative methods, and technical practices. The panel discussion also covered substantial roles played by senior and departments in clubs, sports centres, and local programs, as they are enablers of healthy sports environment for athletes, their families, and caregivers.

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About Special Olympics UAE:

In October 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced Special Olympics UAE as an independent organization dedicated to changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Her Highness Sheikha Maryam Bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was appointed as the Honorary President, and Her Excellency Shamma Bint Suhail Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees.

The organization aims to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sports while providing them with leadership opportunities to help them display their talents and integrate them with the mainstream society.

Special Olympics UAE has launched a variety of community programs, including those focused on families and young athletes. It has also introduced several initiatives to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to create a more inclusive society.

The Special Olympics of the UAE received international recognition from the International Special Olympics Foundation-USA in December 2017. 

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