Dubai Culture Launches “Close to You” Initiative to Empower People of Determination

In a significant move towards inclusivity and community support, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has launched the “Close to You” initiative aimed at empowering employees with disabilities. The initiative focuses on enhancing their skills, increasing job satisfaction, and encouraging their active contribution to Dubai’s cultural landscape.

The new initiative aligns with Dubai Culture’s commitment to the government’s “My Community... A Place for Everyone” vision, which seeks to transform the city into a global model of accessibility and inclusion for people of determination.

The first milestone of the initiative was marked by the inaugural annual meeting of Dubai Culture’s Council for People of Determination, held at the Al Safa Art and Design Library. The gathering brought together directors from various departments, employees with disabilities, and their families. The meeting fostered open dialogue and collaboration through the discussion of innovative ideas and actionable solutions tailored to support and empower people of determination.

Topics addressed included the development of an inclusive work environment, the integration of assistive services, and strategic plans to ensure employees with disabilities can thrive professionally and personally within the Authority.

In recognition of its ongoing commitment to inclusivity, Dubai Culture recently earned ten Autism-Friendly Certification (AFC) accreditations from the Dubai Autism Center. These certifications recognize the Authority’s success in adapting its cultural facilities and services—including employee training, accessible infrastructure, and support programs—to meet the specific needs of people on the autism spectrum.

Dubai Culture’s efforts reinforce the Emirate’s broader strategy of fostering a more inclusive society and ensuring that individuals of all abilities can contribute meaningfully to Dubai’s cultural and creative fabric.