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Renad Academy — a part of Qatar Foundation’s Pre-University Education — organised a special event marking World Autism Awareness Day, aimed at raising community awareness, celebrating the abilities of students with autism, and strengthening the role of community partnerships in supporting and empowering them. The event, held at the academy’s campus, brought together parents, specialists, and representatives of partner entities, alongside students, in an interactive environment that provided opportunities to exchange expertise, highlight inclusive educational practices, and strengthen communication across different segments of the community. The event also featured distinguished student performances by Renad Academy students, showcasing their diverse talents and creative abilities. These performances ranged from artistic displays and interactive activities to expressive segments through which students confidently expressed themselves, reflecting their potential and highlighting their unique strengths. The event also shed light on Renad’s innovative educational approach, including diverse teaching methods and varied communication strategies aimed at empowering students. On this occasion, Noof al-Malki, director of Renad Academy, said: “On World Autism Awareness Day, we reaffirm that this day is not merely an annual event, but a profound human message that we believe in at Renad Academy and strive to embody in our daily practices. We do not view autism solely as a challenge; rather, we see it as a rich form of diversity that carries unique abilities and remarkable potential that deserve to be understood, embraced, and nurtured.” Al-Malki emphasised that education extends beyond academic skills to include character development, fostering independence, and building life skills, enabling students to become active and valued members of their community. “This day reminds us that educational environments can be the greatest challenge for students with autism, yet at the same time they represent the greatest opportunity to make a difference. This drives us to create flexible, supportive, and inclusive environments that open pathways to excellence and create a lasting impact in our students’ lives. “We also aspire to achieve true inclusion not only within the school, but beyond it, recognising that empowerment is a shared responsibility across all sectors of society.” “Success cannot be achieved without a genuine partnership with parents, who form the cornerstone of our students’ journey. Through this collaboration, we build bridges of trust and create a lasting impact,” she emphasised. “Each year, we renew our commitment to raising awareness and promoting a culture of acceptance and inclusion, because our communities thrive when they embrace difference and value diversity.” The event also recognised a number of community partners in appreciation of their continued contributions and their active role in supporting educational initiatives and programs aimed at enhancing the inclusion of students with autism in society. 

A Science Café session in Msheireb brought experts, institutions and families together to bridge awareness gaps on autism and learning disabilities, emphasising practical inclusion and shared responsibility across Qatar’s community. Experts and stakeholders gathered at Bin Jelmood House Monday for the second Science Café session of 2026, focusing on neurodevelopmental conditions and the importance of collaboration in building a more inclusive society. The session, titled “Different Abilities, Shared Futures: Disability and Success,” was organised by Msheireb Museums in partnership with Sidra Medicine. It explored autism and learning disabilities through scientific research, education, technology and mental health perspectives. Speaking on the sidelines, Dr Mohamed Tolefat, Director of Clinical and Rehabilitation Services at Shafallah Centre for Persons with Disabilities, highlighted the importance of such platforms in connecting institutions with families and the wider public. “We take care of persons with disabilities from early childhood and early intervention until 21 years old,” he said, noting that services span “different severity and intensity” levels, including autism spectrum disorders. Dr Tolefat stressed that one of the centre’s strengths lies in its integrated model. “All the services are under one umbrella... physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, special education, psychologists and psychiatry, all in one place,” he explained. However, beyond service provision, he underlined the critical role of awareness and collaboration. “We do have awareness programmes throughout the year... for corporations, schools and even tourism areas like hotels,” he said, adding that parents are also supported through direct training and communication channels. Events such as the Science Café, he noted, play a vital role in strengthening these efforts. “We do interact not only with parents but with all the different entities that take care for autism in Qatar... we bridge the gaps and act as a complement to others like Sidra, HMC and the Ministry of Education.” He emphasised that the value of such gatherings lies in shared learning. “It is important for everyone to come together to bridge the gap between themselves and try to learn from each other,” he said. Dr Tolefat added that participants benefit most from practical engagement. “They interact not only theoretically but practically... and come up with inclusive ideas for activities between autism and other children and people in society.” The session forms part of ongoing efforts in Qatar to promote inclusion, encourage dialogue and ensure that awareness translates into meaningful, everyday practices across communities. 

A Qatar-based researcher is using artificial intelligence to do what traditional clinical tools often cannot — observe, learn from, and adapt to the everyday realities of individuals with autism.“My research focuses on human-centred AI and sensing technologies to better understand and support individuals with autism. At the A-Sense Center of Excellence, we develop tools that use computer vision, eye tracking, and behavioural sensing to study attention, social interaction, and learning patterns in naturalistic settings. The goal is to create technologies that are grounded in real user needs and contexts,” Dr Dena al-Thani, associate professor at HBKU told Gulf Times in an exclusive interview.Dr Dena al-Thani who is the co-founder of the A-sense Center of Excellence, a world-class centre that aims to contribute to innovative technology enhancement in the field of autism spectrum disorder assessment and intervention, is also the head of the Information and Computing Technology Division at the College of Science and Engineering, HBKU.The researcher said that the work in the field is an ongoing one. “However, we have already produced several outcomes, including peer-reviewed publications, AI-based assessment tools, and prototype applications. We have developed systems to detect attention and engagement during learning, as well as digital tools that support learning and therapy. Some of our work has been published in leading journals such as 'Autism Research',” she explained.According to the professor, the current research supports individuals with autism in three main ways: “They are : Assessment by providing objective, data-driven insights into behaviour and development; intervention by supporting therapies through interactive and adaptive tools and empowerment by enabling families, educators, and clinicians with better tools and information,” she stated.Dr Dena al-Thani said that multiple AI techniques are used in the research such as computer vision for analysing facial expressions and behaviour; machine learning models to detect attention and engagement; multimodal data fusion such as video, gaze, interaction data and conversational AI for caregiver support.“AI is helping by making support more scalable, personalised, and accessible. It allows continuous monitoring, early detection of behavioural patterns, and adaptive interventions tailored to each individual. Importantly, AI complements—not replaces—clinical expertise,” she continued.The Autism Digital Hub head also noted that the hub is designed to connect families, services, and knowledge into one unified platform and it simplifies access to resources and provides a clear pathway for families from diagnosis to long-term support, reducing confusion and fragmentation.The Autism Digital Hub is accessible online through the Qatar Foundation platform, designed to be easy to navigate, bilingual (Arabic and English), and inclusive for different user groups.“It provides guided autism support pathways, searchable directory of services in Qatar, AI-powered chatbot for instant support, educational content for families and professionals and community stories and peer support,” she highlighted.“At the heart of all these efforts is a human-centred approach—one that ensures technology is designed with the community, for the community, beginning with the family and ultimately returning to the family. Equally important is strong collaboration across sectors, which remains essential to building a truly inclusive and sustainable ecosystem,” concluded the professor. 

Qatar Foundation (QF) is advancing its decade-long vision for inclusive autism support across education, research, and community development with its new Autism Community Hub – a digital platform that unites services, resources, and expertise, making co-ordinated care and guidance more accessible for families and professionals across Qatar. The platform has been developed as a flagship initiative under the QF Autism Strategy 2025-2035 – a 10-year framework launched in April 2025 to build a fully inclusive ecosystem for people with autism – and represents its first phase. It responds to a critical gap faced by families, particularly in identifying and navigating autism support following an initial assessment request. The Autism Community Hub, which can be accessed by visiting https://www.qf.org.qa/community/autism, aims to help individuals navigate services and pathways, while co-ordinating guidance, through centralising information on programmes, research opportunities, and community resources available within QF. It is designed for parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals – as well as a platform for healthcare professionals, therapy providers, researchers, policymakers, and government entities – and aims to help users make informed decisions throughout every stage of their autism journey. Dr Dena A al-Thani, associate professor, Head of Computer and Electrical Engineering Division, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) is the chair of the QF Autism Task Force. “The Autism Community Hub underscores Qatar Foundation’s ongoing commitment to bridging gaps in autism support, ensuring individuals and their families stay informed, connected, and supported at every stage,” she said. “By creating a trusted space for guidance, clarity, and connection, the platform aims to enhance the quality of life for families and foster a strong sense of belonging and inclusion throughout their journey.” At HBKU, autism research supports this mission through a multidisciplinary approach that explores genetic and biological factors, investigates brain function and development, and advances the use of innovative technologies for more precise assessment and intervention. It also contributes to the development of targeted therapies and informs policies that improve access to diagnosis, care, and support services. Among the Autism Community Hub’s key features is a clearly defined autism pathway, guiding users from initial diagnosis through education and long-term support. The platform also includes a comprehensive, searchable directory of services and programmes, making it easier for families to identify and access the support they need. The platform also offers centralised updates on the progress of the implementation of the QF Autism Strategy, alongside news, insights, and community stories that nurture shared learning experiences, peer-to-peer support, and connections. Future phases of the platform will focus on gradually enhancing personalisation, community engagement pathways, and the integration of research and innovation elements, data, and insights, further strengthening its role as a connected and evolving platform for autism support in Qatar. Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, is a global advocate for autism awareness, whose 2007 proposal led to the United Nations’ adoption of World Autism Awareness Day, marked annually on April 2. 

The Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) has issued a safety guide for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder under the current situation, which includes key guidelines to support them and outlines the preventive preparations that should be taken in advance.The guide also included instructions on how to respond during an incident and after it. Within the key guidelines, the ministry recommended preparing a response plan for unexpected situations that includes essential medications and the child’s specific needs.The guidelines also advise identifying a safe family meeting point when needed, and ensuring that the child carries an identification card or wears an identification bracelet that includes their name, a means of communication, and an indication that they have Autism Spectrum Disorder.The Ministry of Public Health called on families to save and share these guidelines with family members and caregivers, as doing so contributes to supporting and protecting children with autism. The guide recommends preparing an essential kit that includes noise-canceling headphones, the child’s favorite comfort item, and essential medications. It is also preferable for the kit to include a file containing the child’s key information to facilitate sharing it when needed.The ministry also advised to calmly and gradually train the children on the steps of the agreed plan, teaching them simple phrases such as "I need help", and using visual supports such as cards, symbols, and pictures to explain the steps and reinforce the child’s understanding of the plan.Regarding how to act during an incident, the Ministry of Public Health guide recommended that everyone remain calm, as the child’s sense of safety depends on the caregiver’s calmness. Parents and caregivers were encouraged to use short and clear instructions, such as "stay with me" or "we are leaving now," and to continuously reassure the child with phrases such as "everything will be okay."The ministry emphasized the importance of following the pre-agreed plan and proceeding directly to the designated meeting point, while trying to reduce noise and sensory stimuli as much as possible and using noise-canceling headphones or other available tools to help calm the child.The Ministry of Public Health also stressed the importance of clearly informing response teams that the child has Autism Spectrum Disorder, to ensure that the child’s needs are handled appropriately.The post-incident guidelines encourage maintaining a calm and supportive approach, as this helps the child recover and adapt. They also emphasize gradually restoring the child’s daily routine as soon as possible to enhance their sense of safety and reassure the child using familiar and comforting phrases.The Ministry of Public Health urged parents and caregivers to monitor any unusual behavioral changes in the child and to consult a healthcare provider when necessary.The ministry noted that this guide aims to enhance family preparedness and protect children, reaffirming the slogan: "Together towards a safer environment for our children."For urgent assistance, the Ministry called on the public to call 999, and for health inquiries to call 16000.

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) recently organised an awareness workshop for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder on healthy nutrition and weight gain awareness, in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Qatar Foundation’s Renad Academy. The workshop is part of MoPH’s efforts to promote the health of individuals with autism spectrum disorder in line with the National Health Strategy 2024-2030 and the Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritises the health of the individual and family. The workshop aimed to promote awareness of the healthy eating habits of their children with autism spectrum disorder, how to deal with their nutrition-related challenges, and raise awareness of the importance of proper nutrition and its role in preventing weight gain and associated health complications, with a focus on the specific nutritional challenges that children with autism spectrum disorder may face, and ways to deal with them in safe ways. The workshop reviewed the importance of adopting healthy eating habits and practising physical activity, while promoting awareness of nutrition problems associated with autism spectrum disorder. It highlighted appropriate intervention methods for prevention and comprehensive health support, in addition to providing practical guidelines to help parents encourage their children to adopt healthy and sustainable eating habits. The workshop also included presentations by nutrition and public health specialists from the MoPH and HMC which addressed the basics of balanced nutrition, ways to prepare appropriate healthy meals, mechanisms to promote positive nutritional behaviour in children, and the need for periodic follow-up with nutritionists and healthcare professionals to contribute in preventing weight gain and achieving healthy growth for children. 

A comprehensive study conducted by a research team from the University of California, USA, revealed that children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more likely to experience chronic digestive problems. The study evaluated data from more than 300 children with autism, compared to more than 150 children without the disorder, through parental questionnaires and a long-term follow-up period of nearly a decade. The results, published in the journal "Autism," showed that children with autism were 50% more likely to initially experience digestive symptoms. Over time, the risk increased significantly, with children four times more likely to experience these symptoms than children without the disorder. Dr. Christine Wu Nordahl, the study's lead researcher, said that it's not about finding a single cause, but rather understanding the child as a whole. She added that supporting digestive health is an important step in improving the quality of life for children with autism. The researchers noted that the traditional diets common among children with autism, which often rely on low-fiber, processed foods, may increase the risk of digestive problems such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. They noted that gut bacterial imbalances are common in this group, which may increase the likelihood of symptoms appearing.

Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), has hailed the launch of Global Autism Advocacy Coalition at UN General Assembly (UNGA).A call to join an action-driven global alliance focused on building a more inclusive future for people with autism around the world has been sounded by Qatar, alongside international partners, at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.**media[362112]**“I welcome the launch of the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition, marking a milestone that shifts our efforts beyond awareness to collective action,” Her Highness Sheikha Moza said. “This platform urges the international community to embrace its shared responsibility in addressing autism. As the first coalition of its kind, it will ensure autism becomes an international priority.”“The State of Qatar’s commitment to the causes of autism extends beyond its national border, and is rooted in our belief that every individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and lead a fulfilling life,” she continued.“On this occasion, I urge governments, stakeholders, and development partners to move beyond awareness and commit to concrete collective action, including the meaningful allocation of necessary resources,” Her Highness Sheikha Moza added.**media[362110]**The launch of the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition (GAAC) – announced at an event led by Qatar, together with the QF, the World Health Organisation (WHO), Unicef, and Autism Speaks, during the UN General Assembly’s International High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health – marks an opportunity for the international community to shape a unified worldwide approach to supporting those with autism and their families.Calling on decision-makers to move beyond advancing autism awareness, and to commit to allocating the necessary resources and taking collective steps to address the world’s shared autism challenge, the GAAC aims to advance a global autism agenda encompassing policy, advocacy, collaboration and knowledge sharing – including in the fields of research, technology, and education – co-ordinated outreach, and the formation of strategic partnerships that generate autism solutions.The GAAC has issued an invitation to government bodies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), philanthropic organisations, companies, and others to join, and to be part of an international collaboration that advances the social integration, economic prospects, and wellbeing of people with autism worldwide.“The Global Autism Advocacy Coalition is a beacon of what can be achieved when nations unite for good,” HE the Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim bin Saad al-Mahmoud said. “By working together, we can improve the lives of millions of individuals with autism, helping them reach their full potential and showing the world that collective action delivers hope, dignity, and opportunity.”“This moment reflects the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, whose leadership has long advanced dignity, inclusion, and opportunity for individuals with autism,” said HE the Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi. “It was through her efforts that, in December 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 62/139, designating April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day.”“Qatar has long been a regional pioneer in supporting autistic children and their families,” she said. “In 2017, it launched its first national autism strategy, creating a foundation for inclusive policies and services.”“Since then, Qatar has championed the rights of the autistic community through early diagnosis, education, and community services – ensuring inclusion at every stage of life,” HE al-Nuaimi added.Areas identified by the GAAC as being in need of globally unified resources, investment, and action include early diagnosis of autism, innovation, inclusive education, adult services, employment, and community integration, as highlighted at the event by Dr Dena al-Thani, associate professor at the QF’s Hamad Bin Khalifa University and co-founder of the A-sense Centre of Excellence, which focuses on innovative technology in autism assessment and intervention.Dr Hilal Lashuel, the Research, Development, and Innovation adviser to the Chairperson’s Office and Executive Director of Research, Development and Innovation at the QF, said: “We take pride in the leading role that Qatar Foundation, together with its partners, has played in establishing this coalition.”“Having a global voice for autism and launching supportive platforms for individuals with autism has become a global necessity, not a choice,” Dr Lashuel said. “Autism has become a worldwide challenge that requires a global response and resources that exceed the capacity of any single country or institution.”Her Highness Sheikha Moza is a leading global advocate for greater autism awareness and support.In 2007, her proposal for the establishment of World Autism Awareness Day – now held on April 2 each year – was adopted without a vote by the UN General Assembly, and QF programmes, centres, and educational methodologies are increasing inclusivity for people with autism, including within its specialised school Renad Academy.

Qatar participated in the high-level ministerial meeting launching the Global Autism Alliance, held at the UN headquarters in New York on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.Qatar was represented at the meeting by HE the Minister of Public Health Mansour bin Ibrahim al-Mahmoud and HE the Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali al-Jabr al-Nuaimi.The meeting announced the establishment of the alliance as an international platform aimed at fostering understanding, coordinating efforts, and expanding global initiatives to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families.In his opening remarks, HE the Minister of Public Health emphasised the importance of launching the Global Autism Alliance to strengthen joint efforts for sustainable improvement and to provide necessary support to individuals with autism and their families worldwide. He underlined that Qatar attaches great importance to health as a means to achieve a more just, secure, and humane world, and that autism remains a key priority in both public health and social development.He noted that in 2017 Qatar launched its first National Autism Plan, a comprehensive strategy covering awareness, early diagnosis, medical intervention, inclusive education, and lifelong support. He added that the plan is reinforced by large-scale awareness campaigns and strong partnerships with families and communities.He also said that Qatar’s integrated, rights-based approach demonstrates a firm commitment to ensuring that every individual with autism can reach their potential and actively contribute to society.For her part, HE the Minister of Social Development and Family reaffirmed Qatar’s ongoing commitment to promoting social inclusion and achieving health, education, and social equity for individuals with autism. She stressed that this commitment stems from Qatar National Vision 2030 and the country’s comprehensive, rights-based approach to supporting the most vulnerable. She also praised international partnerships that strengthen this initiative.She highlighted that the initiative reflects the vision of Chairperson of Qatar Foundation Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who played a pivotal role in advancing dignity and inclusivity for people with autism and in helping the UN General Assembly adopt Resolution 62/139 in December 2007, which designated April 2 as World Autism Awareness Day.Al-Nuaimi further explained that the Global Autism Alliance is an important step toward advancing international co-operation and knowledge-sharing through research and innovation, with the aim of increasing the impact of global efforts. She stressed the importance of making innovation central to the initiative, particularly in reimagining social systems, supporting families, and fostering community participation to ensure equal opportunities for all.She noted that the alliance represents a qualitative leap in co-ordinated international efforts to raise awareness about autism and improve services provided to individuals with autism, through collaboration among governments, international organisations, civil society, and the private sector.The event was organised in partnership with Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, the World Health Organisation, Unicef, and Autism Speaks.As part of its commitment to supporting children with autism, Qatar continues its efforts under the Qatar Foundation Strategy 2025-2035, which provides comprehensive support in education, health, and innovation, while strengthening social inclusion. These efforts include early intervention programs offering therapeutic and rehabilitation sessions for children aged 3 to 14, as well as autism-friendly hospitals such as Sidra Medicine, which provides suitable medical environments for children during treatment. Qatar also continues to raise awareness through World Autism Day activities and focuses on inclusive education by integrating specialised programmes for children with autism into both public and private schools.