Zayed Authority Inaugurates AI Facility for Visually Impaired
The Zayed Authority for People of Determination has launched a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Room at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The initiative focuses on supporting people with visual impairments through smart technologies. As a result, it aims to strengthen education, independence, and future readiness. Moreover, the AI Room enhances educational, professional, and personal autonomy through practical digital tools.
The inauguration was attended by senior officials, including the Director-General, the Executive Director of the People of Determination Sector, and the Director of the Department. During the event, the initiative was presented as a step toward integrating artificial intelligence into daily learning. Consequently, beneficiaries can engage with an innovative environment that encourages interactive learning, creativity, and skill development.
Empowering Skills Through Smart Technologies
The AI Room is designed to prepare visually impaired individuals for future challenges in education and the labor market. Through hands-on training, participants gain exposure to smart technologies. In addition, the space offers an integrated digital learning model that supports independence, innovation, and sustainable empowerment.
Al Humaidan affirmed that the inauguration of the AI Room falls within the Authority’s vision of harnessing modern technology in serving humanity and empowering People of Determination with the tools of the future.
“Providing smart technologies to the visually impaired represents a qualitative step toward improving their quality of life, enhancing their educational and professional independence, and building a more inclusive and sustainable educational and rehabilitation ecosystem that opens new horizons for participation and productivity.”
Alongside the launch, the Authority received 250 locally manufactured sunglasses produced in cooperation with Eco Modular. Notably, the sunglasses were made from used bags collected during the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations. After collection, the materials were cleaned and recycled according to sustainable environmental standards. All sunglasses will be donated to support beneficiaries.
Cultural Learning and Interactive Programs
The event also marked the opening of the Visually Impaired Museum at the headquarters of the Department of Care for the Visually Impaired. The museum highlights cultural and educational heritage. At the same time, it showcases the evolution of learning tools used by visually impaired people over time.
Al Mansoori emphasized that the AI Room reflects a commitment to inclusive educational design. She noted that accessibility was placed at the center of planning and implementation.
“Through this initiative, we were keen to provide an interactive educational space that enables beneficiaries to acquire technical and cognitive skills that enhance their self-reliance and support their readiness for future requirements, affirming that true empowerment extends to identity, knowledge, creativity, and building self-confidence.”
Additionally, the program featured an interactive workshop for young children to enhance reading skills, imagination, and creativity. A chess training session was also held to develop strategic thinking and social interaction. Furthermore, an adaptive educational tools corner allowed beneficiaries and parents to explore specialized learning aids. Overall, around 1,000 visually impaired individuals, including children, youth, and parents, are expected to benefit from the initiative.
