DUBAI // Obaid Saif has never let disability stand in his way – be it in representing the UAE at the Special Olympics or his success as a municipality employee.
Mr Saif, whose upper limbs are underdeveloped, represented the country on the sporting stage in Atlanta in 1996 and is now a main urban sketcher at Dubai Municipality.
“Luckily, I can move and walk but not everyone is as fortunate,” said the 40-year-old from Ras Al Khaimah.
Mr Saif has been promoted three times during his tenure at the municipality and is pleased to be a part of his company’s new, inclusive, vision – My Will Defies My Disability.
“Some of my friends find jobs but struggle getting around. I wish they worked at places that would make the investment to make their lives easier,” he said.
The municipality initiative was launched on Wednesday by Hussain Lootah, director general of Dubai Municipality, in an attempt to ensure inclusivity across its departments.
A forum for employees with disabilities was also held as part of the initiative.
Mona bin Hammad, a specialist in corporate excellence, spoke to an audience of more than 50 municipality employees with special needs.
“We want you all to know what your rights are. You’ve got talents that surpass your peers who are not disabled and we’d like you to have the best workplace experience this country can provide,” Ms bin Hammad said.
Employees felt that the municipality has provided them with enough solutions to excel in their jobs.
Even though sign language and Braille is not commonplace, one visually impaired employee is grateful to have found a place where he can thrive.
Mohamed Al Hosani, 45, a receptionist and a call operator from Ajman, who is blind, joined the municipality in 1992 after completing his studies at the Dubai Centre for Special Needs.
“A manager took a chance on me 23 years ago and asked me to prove myself and I showed him that my disability was no hindrance to success,” said Mr Al Hosani, an Emirati father of six.
The municipality has invested in speech output systems and synthesisers that allow Mr Al Hosani to operate computers.
Dubai Municipality also has 17 employees who communicate using sign language. Mr Al Hosani said he coped with his disability and does not feel that he faces many obstacles but felt disrespected every time people pitied him.
“I wish people saw me for my achievements and were not blinded by my handicap,” he said.
“Employees at the municipality are trained on inclusive work environments. I hope this attitude permeates through the country.”
Achievements by employees with disabilities were highlighted through an exhibition. Medals and certificates showcased their talents, creativity and competencies.
The initiative is driven by the goals set by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, to make Dubai the world’s best city for individuals with special needs by 2020.
nalremeithi@thenational.ae
