Future Accessibility Dubai summit breaking all accessibility barriers

Dubai (October 10, 2016) – Supported by Dubai Municipality and the Community Development Authority (CDA), Advanced Conferences & Meetings (ACM) proudly launched Future Accessibility & Assistive Technology Dubai summit today at Sheraton Grand Hotel, Dubai, UAE.

Future Accessibility & Assistive Technology Dubai brought together governmental authorities, International NGOs, Citizens of Dubai with disabilities and senior representatives from the transportation, healthcare and public services sectors.

The summit started with the opening remarks of the United Nation’s representative Daniela Bas who also delivered a presentation about the elimination of barriers to promote social inclusion and well-being for all. Bas moderated an enlightening workshop on awareness of disabilities and communication between the government and civil society.

Dr. Hussain Maseeh from the Community Development Authority (CDA) delivered an introduction about the future of Dubai as an accessible city. Dr. Maseeh also participated in the panel discussion on developing regulations and sharing best practices along with David Capozzi and Mukhtar Al Shibani. This panel discussion was moderated by Dr. Nadera Alborno.

Three videos were shared on day one of the summit. Dr. Victor Santiago Pineda shared a video titled accessibility and assistive technology innovation to include persons with disabilities, whilst Elena Cruz shared “Together Limitless Manifesto” video on behalf of Emirates NBD and Vladimir Cuk displayed a video detailing the international and UN framework on accessibility.

Another very informative panel discussion on providing efficient and inclusive urban planning and architecture was moderated by Dr. Nadera Alborno with the participation of James Price, Nadine Bitar and Lieutenant Khaled Rashid Obaid Al Shamsi who also delivered a case study about “My place” project for protecting the parking spaces of persons with disabilities.

“This summit provided a comprehensive overview on disabilities and impact on the built environment” - Senior Associate, Parsons

“Well done! Thank you for organizing this excellent summit” - Group General Manager, Ayla Hotels

The first day of Future Accessibility & Assistive Technology Dubai summit created the perfect platform for the attendees to build relations, exchange ideas and seize business opportunities throughout the ACMi+ interface that allowed for many networking breaks which created a dynamic, efficient and relevant learning environment.

“Brilliant to see such passion and attendance from important decision makers” – Managing Director, GAAS Ltd.

Many key players participated in this event, to name a few: United Nations, Community Development Authority, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Emirates NBD, Emirates Airlines, International Disability Alliance, US Federal Access Board, GAATES, Pineda Foundation / World Enabled, Global Access Award Scheme, UAE Ministry of Interior GHQ Fujairah Police Force, SEDRA Foundation, Child Early Intervention Medical Center, Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai.

Solution providers like Q’Straint, API, Allied Vehicles and Cruiser Scooter showcased their newest technologies and solutions for accessibility.

Day two (October 11) of the summit will feature many more interesting presentations, to name a few: A panel discussion detailing the projects completed by the Dubai government concerning accessibility regulation, a case study on integrating all children in the same inclusive schools and a panel discussion on accessing information and communication through assistive technology devices.