Photo has been used for illustrative purposes.

Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter

The representatives of the schools in Dubai have expressed their satisfaction on the arrangements made by the government to combat the spread of novel coronavirus COVID-19.

“Testing People of Determination at their homes in the UAE is a very advanced step in the fight against the Coronavirus,” Mohammed Al Emadi, Board Member, Director General Dubai Autism Center, said to Gulf Today.

“The initiative reflects the humanitarian efforts of our wise leadership in meeting the needs of all UAE society’s segments. It is also essential that reasonable adjustments are foreseen in the healthcare system, to deliver an accessible response to the needs of People of Determination,” he said.

Ranjini Ramnath, Deputy Director of Al Noor Centre for People of Determination said, “Al Noor supports the community-centric initiatives of the UAE Government to prioritise the testing of People of Determination during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Last month, customers at Dubai restaurant ‘Shabab Shawarma’ were pleasantly surprised to be greeted by a workforce with a difference.

The restaurant took part in Autism Works Wonders, a campaign which aims to encourage businesses to be more inclusive in their hiring policies.

“As a hidden gem ourselves, we understand perfecting the potential of hidden talent, which is exactly why we opened our doors to these exceptional young individuals,” explains Motaz Albatta, Shabab Shawarma’s Managing Partner.

Laurence Anthony De Guzman, a 15 year old pianist, along with his sister Charlene Joie serenaded customers in the restaurant, along with a special rendition of Happy Birthday to a lucky diner celebrating their 18th birthday.

Customers were also welcomed with amazing balloon decorations, designed and made by UAE based Dhiren Bhatia, a young designer who developed his skills as a way to help his single mother pay for his medical bills.

In the kitchen, Tanay Shah a skilled amateur chef and cupcake enthusiast helped the restaurant up their dessert game, including baking a birthday cake for a lucky customer.

“At Senses, we witness every single day the amazing things individuals on the spectrum can do, we hope this initiative will highlight and encourage business owners to hire individuals on the spectrum and broaden their workforce in a positive and unique way” said Khawla Al Sayegh, Vice Executive Manager of Senses Residential and Day Care For Special Needs (SENSES).