Zayed Higher Organization: “Support” is Our Approach to Empowering Those Affected, and a New Initiative to Support Our Employees Living with MS

Coinciding with World Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Day, observed annually on May 30, the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination announced the launch of a pioneering initiative to support its employees living with this condition—classified as a physical disability. This step reflects the organization’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all People of Determination, including its own staff.

The new initiative aims to provide specialized psychological and social support to affected employees, while also granting them additional benefits and ensuring a flexible work environment that accommodates their health needs. It also includes educational, and awareness programs targeted at both affected employees and their colleagues, fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Under the theme "Support," the organization has launched a series of awareness films through its digital platforms this year. These films highlight the critical role of family, community, and the work environment in supporting individuals with MS. The campaign reflects Zayed Higher Organization’s holistic support model, which goes beyond medical care to include social and human empowerment.

The organization reaffirmed its continued dedication to serving all categories of People of Determination, stating:
"True support begins with recognizing each individual’s unique needs and striving to provide an empathetic, motivating environment—whether they are our service recipients or part of our institutional team."

Sidra Al Mansoori, Director of Services for People of Determination at the organization, explained that MS primarily affects people aged 20 to 40 and is more common among women than men—making early awareness and support especially crucial.
She added: “We place strong emphasis on psychological and social support programs and intensify our awareness campaigns throughout May to engage all segments of society, fostering a culture of solidarity and empathy with those affected.”

As part of its ongoing efforts, the organization previously launched several awareness initiatives, including an update to the People of Determination ID card for individuals with MS by adding a dedicated colour representing the condition. It also introduced specially coloured parking permits in collaboration with the Integrated Transport Centre and Abu Dhabi Police, to better identify and assist those affected. Additionally, the organization produced awareness films on the nature of the disease, its symptoms, and coping strategies, and organized virtual workshops and training sessions covering topics such as rehabilitation therapy, psychological support, healthy nutrition, art therapy, maternity care for patients, and workplace readiness.

On the partnership front, Zayed Higher Organization continues its collaboration with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society to deliver messages of support to registered patients and contribute to building a sustainable community support network.

In its concluding message on this occasion, the organization called on all members of society and institutions to be a lasting source of “Support” for anyone facing health challenges, affirming that solidarity is the first step toward a compassionate, inclusive society.

About Multiple Sclerosis (MS):
MS is a chronic disease that can cause physical disability. It may occur at any age but typically develops between the ages of 20 and 40. It affects women more than men. The exact cause of MS is still unknown, and there is no definitive way to prevent it. Symptoms vary depending on which nerves are affected and the severity of the condition. In severe cases, MS can result in loss of the ability to walk or speak. Diagnosing MS can be difficult in its early stages, as symptoms may appear and disappear for months at a time.

There is no single test for diagnosing MS. Diagnosis is often made by ruling out other conditions. Doctors may rely on a combination of blood tests, spinal fluid analysis (via lumbar puncture), MRI scans, and nerve impulse tests to confirm the diagnosis.