Assistive technology is helping people of determination to do their jobs independently and is also opening up employment opportunities for them, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chief Executive of Emirates Group, has said.

Commenting on the lead up to AccessAbilities Expo, the Middle East’s dedicated exhibition for products, services and technologies related to the disabilities and rehabilitation sectors, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed said, ''The UAE leadership's vision aims to make the nation disabled-friendly and enhance the engagement of people with disabilities in the community and economy."

"To achieve this goal, assistive technology must reach the maximum number of people of determination, an estimated 50 million in the Middle East," he continued.

The exhibition will be held between 7th and 9th November 2017, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The international exhibition for people of determination is being held in line with the UAE leadership’s aim to build hope, life, and future, and make people from all walks of life happy while ensuring Dubai becomes disabled-friendly by 2020.

During the three-day expo, more than 150 manufacturers of products and service providers of mobility, independent living, accessibility and rehabilitation solutions from the UAE, the United States, Canada, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Australia, Cyprus, India, China, Italy, Czech Republic, Kuwait, Jordan and Saudi Arabia will showcase the world’s latest assistive technology products, solutions and robotics under one roof with the goal of enhancing the lives of more than 50 million people with disabilities.

The expo also aims to motivate government authorities and private sector players to change their perceptions on people with special needs and disabilities, as well as improve services to meet their requirements, integrate them into society and enable them to overcome their daily challenges.

Various event features and activities at the exhibition will provide opportunities for the community, associations, public and private sector organisations to interact with persons with disabilities and their families. Other interactions include panel discussions by experts, sporting and creative arts competitions, and knowledge transfers through seminars and workshops.