Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
By bringing together top international experts and scientists, the 3rd International Conference on Autism Research Advancements not only showcases the latest trends and technologies that can help those on the spectrum — it also creates a meaningful space for families to connect with industry leaders and learn best practices.
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO), the conference kicked off on Saturday and runs until April 22 at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre.
Coinciding with World Autism Month, the event is jointly organised by the ZHO, ADNOC, Lotus Holistic Center – Abu Dhabi, and Fatima College of Health Sciences. It builds on the UAE’s success in autism care by offering a global platform where research and best practices can be exchanged.
In an interview with Aletihad, Prof. Afaf El-Ansary, Member of Autism Research and Treatment Center, King Saud University, highlighted the shift in autism research: “There is a shift toward understanding autism as treatable. But we stress that treatments must be based on science. This conference supports evidence-based treatments — nothing built on illusions.”
She drew the attention to how making science understandable for families can lead to early action and better outcomes.
“Parents do not just learn — they practise, especially in behavioural therapy,” said El-Ansary, who is also a consultant of the Autism Centre at Lotus Holistic Medical Centre in Abu Dhabi, and Chair of the Conference’s Scientific Committee.
Maha Helali, Founder and Chairperson of the Egyptian Advance Society for Persons with Autism, discussed how the new approach to autism goes beyond workshops.
“Neurodiversity applies to various challenges, such as reading and math difficulties. It is about fostering acceptance and nurturing differences in the classroom, training teachers, and involving parents, non-disabled students, and citizens in creating an inclusive environment,” Helali said.
Awareness Drive
New approaches and developments in autism care were explored and discussed at the conference.
Dr Walid Abu Zaid, Professor of Neurosurgery at Sohag University, stressed that while outcomes vary based on age, related conditions, and family involvement, early diagnosis — before the age of three — makes a big difference.
"I hope advances in genetics, detox, homeopathy, AI, and rehab will make autism more manageable," Prof. Abu Zaid said.
Jemman Hussein, Founder and CEO of the Autism MENA Foundation (AMENA), shared her thoughts on autism advocacy, stressing the importance of inclusion and awareness.
"Autism is a newer buzzword, but we need more acceptance and understanding. Conferences like this are vital for raising awareness and creating a platform for collaboration across sectors,” she said.
Highlighting the conference’s significance, Hussein said: "When we come together, we present a unified voice based on shared experiences and research. This makes a stronger case for governments to act. This conference provides a space for families to learn and connect, addressing the confusion parents often face."
She called on professionals, organisations, and governments to work together to engage with parents and families.
"We need more monitoring to protect families from misleading advice, especially with so many self-proclaimed experts online,” she said.
