Carer Week 2025: A Conversation on Care, Inclusion, and Hope in the MENA Region

Q: What are the biggest challenges faced by carers of people of determination in the Arab region?

Dr. Fida: Acceptance—both within families and across society—is still a major obstacle. Even with financial resources available for treatment or support, the journey doesn’t begin without emotional acceptance. Rejection in nurseries, schools, or institutions leaves families feeling isolated and misunderstood.

Q: What do MENA societies need to better support carers?

Dr. Fida: Awareness, awareness, awareness. Lack of understanding leads to rejection. We must educate all segments of society—parents, children, educators—so inclusion becomes a shared responsibility, not just a burden on the family.

Q: What can institutions do to offer better support?

Schools, hospitals, and NGOs need expert committees that include both professionals and parents. True progress only comes when institutions become systems that guide—not overwhelm—families.

Q: What’s the right way to deliver a diagnosis to families?

It’s a life-altering moment. The person delivering the diagnosis must choose their words carefully, offering hope and showing families what can be done. Sharing success stories is powerful—it turns fear into courage.

Q: How has the regional landscape changed over the last decade?

In the UAE, we’ve seen great progress—from government support to advanced facilities. But many Arabic-speaking families still lack accessible, high-quality educational resources. Awareness in our own language remains a critical gap.

Q: Any personal initiatives you’d like to highlight?

We just launched the Arabic platform ‘قادرون يداً بيد’ (Capable, Hand in Hand), featuring educational resources from regional leaders in special education. We also run year-round workshops tailored for mothers of children with disabilities.

We thank Dr. Fida for her valuable insights and ongoing contributions to this important field.

As we mark Carer Week, this conversation is a timely reminder that carers deserve not only recognition, but meaningful, sustained support—today and every day.