The Human Rights Commission held a special event marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at its headquarters in Riyadh, with the participation of senior officials and experts from various government and private sectors. Held under the theme "The Rights of Persons with Disabilities," the event highlighted efforts to strengthen the rights of this group and empower them across various fields, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and its fundamental human-rights reforms.

Multi-Sector National Efforts

A Comprehensive Vision for Strengthening the Rights of People with Disabilities

Dr. Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, President of the Human Rights Commission, stressed the importance of cooperation between concerned entities to raise awareness of the rights of people with disabilities and ensure they receive the necessary services. She noted the Kingdom has made significant progress in empowering this group, stressing the importance of developing their capabilities to achieve well-being for them and their families.

Ministry of Health: Comprehensive Preventive and Treatment Services

Dr. Faisal Al-Dahmashi explained that the Ministry of Health provides comprehensive programs including genetic counseling, early screening, and premarital and student examinations, alongside awareness and research services directed at people with disabilities.

Ministry of Housing: Inclusive and Accessible Cities

Yahya Al-Qahtani said the ministry applies universal-access codes in government buildings and facilities in Riyadh, with 89,127 compliance certificates issued across the Kingdom since the initiative was launched.

Ministry of Human Resources: Supporting the Labor Market

Arwa Al-Dihan said the labor-force participation rate for people with disabilities has reached 4.8%, with 1,164 accessible work environments and 2,009 people enrolled in vocational training programs.

Ministry of Education: Inclusive and Equitable Education

Dr. Hessa Al Mishaan pointed to educational initiatives such as printing textbooks in Braille, issuing a universal-access guide, and incorporating sign language into the general curriculum.

Authority for the Care of Persons with Disabilities: Strategic Planning and Policy

Turki Halabi highlighted efforts to develop policies and organize research to support people with disabilities, noting official statistics showing 1.3 million people with disabilities in the Kingdom, representing 5.9% of the population.

Ministry of Transport: Advanced Technology for Comprehensive Services

Tariq Al-Mutlaq said the ministry is keeping pace with the latest technologies to provide transport and logistics services that meet the needs of people with disabilities.

Strengthening Cooperation and Partnership

This event is part of the Human Rights Commission's efforts to strengthen cooperation with all relevant entities, aiming to empower people with disabilities, ensure their rights, and improve the level of services provided to them across all sectors.