Programs
Special Olympics UAE delivers year-round opportunities that extend beyond sport — creating pathways for participation, leadership, creativity, health and inclusion.
Our work
From early childhood development to youth leadership, health, creativity and inclusive sport — every program is designed to create opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to participate, grow and belong.
05 programs · year-round
What runs through every program
Together, they create opportunity, inclusion and belonging.
01 / 05
For youth · athletes · community
Empowering young people with and without intellectual disabilities to lead, advocate, speak publicly and create more inclusive communities.
Includes Youth Inclusion, Athlete Leaders & Health Messengers, the Youth Unified Council, Parents Council, Siblings Council and University Clubs.
02 / 05
For schools · athletes · community
Expanding access to the arts and showcasing the talents of Special Olympics athletes and Unified Partners — through creative expression, exhibitions and inclusive programming in schools and communities.
Includes the Unified Arts Grants for Schools and the Unified Gallery.
03 / 05
Ages 2—7 · for families · caregivers · teachers
A sport and play program for children with and without intellectual disabilities — building early physical, social and emotional skills alongside families and teachers.
Delivered with families, caregivers and teachers in schools and community settings.
04 / 05
For athletes · health professionals
Healthy Athletes screenings, health education and training for health and fitness professionals — building healthier lives through access and inclusive healthcare.
Includes Healthy Athletes, Health Messenger, Healthy Community, Unified Healthcare and Clinical Directors.
05 / 05 · enrichment
Part of Unified Champion Schools · for schools · STEM
Bringing neurodiverse and mainstream students together through STEM and robotics — building collaboration, communication and independent thinking.
The wider ecosystem
Following the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, Unified Champion Schools was established in every public school in the UAE, pairing mainstream students and athletes in sport, leadership and inclusive activities — including Unified Sports, Inclusive Youth Leadership, Whole School Engagement and Unified Robotics.
Impact
1000+
Athletes
1000+
Volunteers
200+
Schools
30+
Sports
100+
Events
Whether you want to participate, volunteer, partner or simply help create a more inclusive UAE, there is a way to get involved.
