The Qatar Chamber recently hosted a high-level Arab event in Doha focused on creating economic opportunities for people with disabilities through entrepreneurship and innovation. The gathering, which concluded on Saturday, brought together ministers, officials, and organisations from across the Arab world to promote greater social and economic inclusion.
A Collaborative Pan-Arab Initiative
The event incorporated the ‘Third Session of the Living Independently Initiative for Persons with Disabilities’ and the ‘Arab Exhibition for Productive Families’. It was organised by the Union of Arab Chambers and the General Secretariat of the Arab League, in coordination with the UN Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and other regional bodies.
High-profile attendees included Qatar Chamber first vice chairman Mohammed bin Towar al-Kuwari; Dr Maya Morsy, Egypt’s Minister of Social Solidarity; and Mohammed bin Saleh al-Alawi, Bahrain’s Minister of Social Development. They were joined by representatives from the League of Arab States, the Jordanian government, and the Executive Bureau of the Council of Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs in the Gulf States.
Showcasing Regional Talent
A key feature was an exhibition that displayed a wide variety of products created by people with disabilities. Items included handmade accessories, traditional clothing, ceramics, silverware, and wickerwork. The exhibition featured 25 exhibitors from 14 countries, including Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. The diverse participation highlighted the creative and commercial potential within communities across the region.
Qatar’s Commitment to Inclusion
In his opening address, al-Kuwari stated that the initiative is a valuable opportunity to integrate people with disabilities into the labour market and support productive families. He affirmed that Qatar gives great attention to this issue, seeking to ensure their effective participation in social and economic life in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Al-Kuwari emphasised that Qatar has established an integrated system of national legislation and policies that guarantee the rights of people with disabilities. These frameworks are designed to support their integration into society and enable them to contribute to national development.
Supporting Entrepreneurs and Small Business
The Qatar Chamber is actively committed to empowering productive families and promoting small-scale entrepreneurship. Al-Kuwari noted that the Chamber works to provide platforms that allow these families to showcase and market their products both locally and internationally, reflecting a broader strategy where Qatar participates in Gulf-EU business forums to foster economic ties.
He also highlighted the Chamber’s role in encouraging the private sector to create suitable jobs for people with disabilities. This effort aligns with the work of other national entities focused on promoting equal opportunity and building a more inclusive workforce throughout the country.
