A decade ago, children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in the Middle East often lacked access to education, and societal stigmas led to many being kept at home. SEND was largely overlooked, and there was minimal support in schools.
Significant strides have been made in the Middle East, particularly in the last five years, with increased focus on SEND provision. Schools have invested in teacher training, infrastructure, and assistive technologies to accommodate diverse learning needs. Governments, such as in the UAE, have implemented inclusion policies to promote integration in schools.
Key Drivers
Legislation:
Dubai introduced an inclusion policy framework in 2017, making SEND provision part of school inspections.
The UAE adopted an inclusion policy defining students with extra needs as "people of determination" and emphasizing full integration.
Qatar has established new departments for special schools and SEND services.
High-Profile Events:
Events like the Olympics in Abu Dhabi (2019) and the Qatar World Cup (2022) raised awareness about disability access and inclusion.
Private School Innovations:
Schools like Beech Hall Riyadh and Sherborne Qatar have built facilities and tailored curriculums to provide inclusive environments.
Features include sensory rooms, flexible classrooms, and on-site therapy services
However, cultural stigmas around conditions like autism persist, making discussions with families challenging. In some regions, schools face restrictions on the types of SEND students they can admit along with high costs of providing SEND services (sometimes 50% higher fees) remain a challenge.
Despite the challenges, the region is moving toward greater inclusivity and support for SEND students. Schools, governments, and international educators are collaboratively working to improve access and quality of education for all children.
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