Abu Dhabi launches global autism awareness campaign

Abu Dhabi has launched a global awareness campaign that aims to enhance awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), promote positive interaction and inclusion, and contribute to building a more understanding and inclusive society.

Under the patronage of Sheikha Moza bint Suhail Al Khaili, the Executive Committee of the International Autism Conference announced the campaign under the slogan “Smile… Your Smile Is Enough to Make Them Happy.”

The campaign was unveiled on the sidelines of the closing of the 4th International Autism Conference 2026, in preparation for its global expansion and major launch in 2027, alongside its preparations for the next edition of the conference.

The initiative reflects Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global hub for empowering People of Determination and highlights a strategic direction toward transforming awareness initiatives into sustainable programs with lasting local and international impact. 

It involves the engagement of individuals with autism as main ambassadors, sharing their experiences and inspiring stories in a model that reinforces empowerment and helps society better understand their capabilities and potential.

In addition, a digital platform will be launched to enable individuals and institutions to join and actively contribute to spreading the campaign’s message on a wide scale.

A series of initiatives and interactive activities will also be introduced, including field visits to schools, universities, and public and private institutions, participation in community events nationwide, the production of digital awareness content, and the launch of the “Autism Voices” platform.

It will also feature training programs and support sessions, contributing to the development of a sustainable community network of supporters and ambassadors of change.

على هامش المؤتمر الدولي الرابع للتوحد، الذي نظمته هيئة زايد لأصحاب الهمم، اللجنة التنفيذية للمؤتمر الدولي للتوحد تطلق حملة لتعزيز الوعي بالتوحد من خلال مبادرات بمشاركة الأشخاص الذين يعانون من اضطراب طيف التوحد كسفراء للحملة. pic.twitter.com/tCXtLbeyhn

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) May 2, 2026

 Abdullah Abdul Aali Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of Zayed Authority for People of Determination, stated that "the campaign represents a true translation of the message of turning awareness into simple daily behavior with profound impact—enhancing acceptance and bridging gaps within society".

Amina Al Haidan, CEO of the International Autism Conference, emphasised that "a smile is not merely a symbol, but a universal human language that fosters acceptance, breaks barriers, and opens new horizons for communication and understanding among different segments of society".

The campaign further calls on the community to join this global humanitarian initiative, contribute to spreading its message, and help bring smiles to the faces of individuals with autism and their families.