Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation-Global (Registered in Lebanon),  that is chaired by HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud, sponsored an Autism Awareness Gala Dinner as part of World Autism Awareness Day activities planned by Child Early Intervention Medical Center (CEIMC) yesterday in Dubai.

The awareness activities included the “Light It Up Blue” campaign, which illuminated Dubai’s famous landmarks in for the cause, including Burj Alarab and Jumierah Beach Hotel, where the dinner, sponsored by Alwaleed Foundation, took place.

The Alwaleed Foundation received an award in recognition of its support to Autism along with other supporters. The event was attended by Ms. Nauf Alrawaf, Executive Manager of International Projects and Ms. Najla Tarabzouni, Communications and Media Manager of The Alwaleed Foundation.

Other activities will be taking place during the month of April, such as the Walk for Autism community event. Educational activities will also take place, including a professional workshop at the Ministry of Health Auditorium highlighting the importance of early detection, developmental screening and early intervention, which aims to further educate and support Dubai’s healthcare professionals in screening and identifying children that may be at risk at an early stage.

Prince Alwaleed commented “It is our responsibility to increase awareness of autism, to emphasize the need for their social empowerment, and to help create a brighter future for our beloved children around the world. The Alwaleed Foundation supports good causes lead by impactful organizations, such as CEIMC.”

Dr. Hibah Shata, Managing Director of CEIMC said “World Autism Day is an opportunity for everyone in the UAE to support families and individuals affected by the condition, to draw attention to the public health impact it presents and to help improve the future for everyone who struggles with the disorder on a daily basis”. “Through the ongoing collaboration with DHCC, the support of UAE Red Crescent, Jumeriah Group, Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation - Global, and many more individuals we aim to hold impactful community and educational activities and ensure increased awareness of autism across the nation.” said Carolina Tovar the CEO of Child Early Intervention Medical Center

Child Early Intervention Medical Center (CEIMC) in Dubai Healthcare City was established to accept and provide a broad range of services to families affected with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and various other developmental delays all under one roof. We achieve quality control through continuous education, monitoring and completing regular evaluation of programs and performing assessments of our therapists. In November 2010, the Child Learning & Enrichment Medical Center (CLEMC) was established as a sister branch to CEIMC and is located in the Al Wasl area. CLEMC offers outpatient services, classroom and group teaching using the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to assist children with inclusion into mainstream schools.

The Alwaleed Bin Talal Foundation is involved in a wide spectrum of humanitarian activities reaching more than 70 countries. Its main focus areas have been established around strategic initiatives, ranging from Disaster Relief and Community Development, to Women and Youth Empowerment, as well as Promoting Global Cultural Understanding.