Sultan Haitham Directs Allocation of OMR 7 Million for Autism Spectrum Disorder Care Center in Muscat
Muscat, The Gulf Observer: His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has issued royal directives to allocate OMR 7 million for the establishment of the Autism Spectrum Disorder Care and Rehabilitation Center in the Muscat Governorate. The center will operate under the National Autism Centre and is part of the Sultanate’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality care for individuals with autism.
In addition, the Royal directives call for a study to assess the need for similar centers in other governorates, with a plan to establish them based on the number of cases in each region. These directives align with World Autism Awareness Day, reinforcing His Majesty’s deep commitment to supporting individuals with disabilities in Oman.
The establishment of the center will provide specialized rehabilitation, care, and recreational services in a comprehensive and accessible environment. This initiative is designed to empower individuals with autism to integrate into society, achieve independence, and contribute to an inclusive society that offers equal opportunities to all.
The center will be built on the extended premises of the National Autism Centre in Wilayat of A’Seeb, spanning approximately 26,000 square meters. It is expected to serve 150 cases daily and will be the first of its kind in the Middle East, offering a diverse range of rehabilitative services. This includes specialized rehabilitation halls, modern technologies, and recreational programs suited to the health conditions of the individuals.
Additionally, the center will serve as a hub for specialized training programs for autism professionals, providing licenses and ongoing training across Oman. It will also offer temporary care services and early diagnostic and evaluation services in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
This initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which emphasizes the inclusion of all societal groups, including individuals with disabilities, through improved healthcare, inclusive education, and support for innovative assistive technologies.
