Abu Dhabi, UAE: SAKINA, the mental health network under SEHA, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Emirates Autism Society to expand integrated care and improve access to specialized healthcare and rehabilitation services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) across Abu Dhabi.

The partnership will provide a range of services, including psychological and behavioral assessments, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). It will also offer educational workshops and awareness programs for families, teachers, and caregivers to strengthen support for children at home, school, and in the community.

Also read: New Partnership to Accelerate Medical Technology Development

Dr. Zain Ali Al Yafai, Chief Executive Officer of SAKINA, said: “At SAKINA, we believe that effective care for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder depends on strong collaboration between specialised clinical services and community support. Through our partnership with the Emirates Autism Society, we are expanding access to evidence-based care while equipping families, educators, and caregivers with the knowledge and resources they need to support children at every stage of their development. Together, we are creating more connected care pathways that promote inclusion, independence, and improved quality of life.”

Click here to join our WhatsApp channel here

H.E. Ali bin Shmail Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Emirates Autism Society, added: “This MoU marks an important milestone in strengthening collaboration with leading healthcare entities and supports the continued development of services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

The initiative also seeks to strengthen collaboration between healthcare providers and community organizations, streamline early support and referrals, and promote greater inclusion and independence for individuals with autism across the emirate.