Universal Design for Inclusion Program 2024/2025 Cycle
The inaugural cycle introduced students to the principles of universal design through hands-on learning and direct engagement with People of Determination.
About the cohort
This cohort marked the launch of the Universal Design for Inclusion Program reaching more than 500 students across 11 campuses in the UAE. More than 80 students went on to develop and submit over 30 team-based design projects.
AI-powered tool developed by students at the Higher Colleges of Technology Sharjah that simplifies complex text and tracks clarity in real time. With Arabic language support, the tool offers valuable assistance to people living with conditions that affect memory and concentration.
An affordable and accessible tool, developed by student at Khalifa University, that uses regular cameras to measure pupil response and help detect early signs of cognitive decline.
Developed by students at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, the AI-powered assistive grip device draws inspiration from Emirati jewelry, blending cultural identity with functionality and reducing stigma around assistive technology.
A standing wheelchair concept, developed by students at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, that can be self-built with local materials, offering a customizable and more cost-effective option.
A discreet smart bracelet developed by students at the University of Sharjah. The bracelet translates emergency sounds into light and vibration alerts, helping individuals with hearing impairments respond quickly in critical situations.
An AI-powered voice-assisted mobile app, developed by students at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation, that transforms short or unclear speech into full sentences, helping people communicate more smoothly and confidently in daily interactions.
Alya AbdulazizShahed YounisButhaina AliFatmah AlzahmiAyesha Abdulla
Participating Universities
Higher Colleges of Technology - Al Ain
Al Ain University
University of Sharjah
Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation
Abu Dhabi University
NYU Abu Dhabi
Faculty List
Dr. Nadia Mounajjed
Abu Dhabi University, Architecture
Dr. Yazeed Ghadi
Al Ain University, Computer Science
Huda Khalil AlHeeh
Al Ain University, College of Engineering
Dr. Faten F. Kharbat
Al Ain University, Computer Science
Dr. Thabet Mismar
Al Ain University, Networks and Communication Engineering
Dr. Suhib Bani Melhem
Al Ain University, Cybersecurity
Dr. Anas Al Tarabsheh
Al Ain University, Computer Engineering
Joanne Hayek
Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation
Rajavelu Loganathan
HCT Abu Dhabi
Dr. Kheir Eddine Bouazza
HCT Abu Dhabi
Dr. Divya Prakash Shrivastava
HCT Abu Dhabi, Computer Information Science
Dr. Faouzi Bouslama
HCT Dubai, Computer Information Science
Dr. Akhtar Khalil
HCT Al Ain, Computer Information Science
Dr. Azmi Alazzam
HCT Al Ain, Computer Information Science
Dr. Gideon Bibu
HCT Al Ain, Computer Information Science
Dr. Anang Amin
HCT Dubai, Computer Information Science
Tauseef Kamal
HCT Dubai, Computer Information Science
Sharmila Siddartha
HCT Dubai
Dr. Ossama Embarak
HCT Fujairah, Computer Information Technology
Dr. Suleiman Almasri
HCT RAK, Computer Information Technology
Aaesha Alshehhi
HCT RAK
Abdulsalam Walid Alarabeyyat
HCT RAK, Computer Information System
Dr. Ahmed HajYasien
HCT RAK
Dr. Samia Kouki
HCT RAK, Computer Information Science
Usman Khan Durrani
HCT Sharjah, Computer Information Science
Dr. Nur Siyam
HCT Sharjah, Computer Information Science
Dr. Reem Atassi
HCT Sharjah, Computer Information Science
Dr. Daoud Daoud
HCT Sharjah
Fatmah Morad
HCT Sharjah, Computer Information Science
Dr. Abdulhadi Shoufan
Khalifa University, Computer Engineering
Dr. Mohamed Elgendi
Khalifa University, Computer Engineering
Dr. Kinda Khalaf
Khalifa University, Biomedical Engineering
Suma Rao
Khalifa University, Biomedical Engineering
Dr. Iman Ibrahim
Khalifa University, Biomedical Engineering
Dr. Tamer Shousha
University of Sharjah, Physiotherapy
Dr. Alham Al-sharman
University of Sharjah, Physiotherapy
Madiha Jamil
University of Sharjah, College of Fine Arts and Design
Muhammad Asad Iqbal
University of Sharjah, College of Fine Arts and Design
The Experts
Sana Mohammad
Multidisciplinary Designer and CEO & Founder, Bionik Tech startup
Emile Moughayar
Manager of Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programs, Sheraa
Amanda Prachali
Founder, Monsait
Khaled Hazem
Head of Partnerships and Strategy at Binary Consulting Services
Heba Hajj Omar
Service Design Manager, Dubai Airports
Michael Pazinas
Specialist, Pedagogical Innovation and Effectiveness Center of Education Innovation, Zayed University
Renate Richter
Executive Director, Institute for Accessibility and Inclusion
Mishiel Ayub
Project Manager Assistive Technology Specialist, The Butterfly
Dalilah Mansour
Multidisciplinary Designer and Researcher, TCDL 2024 Winner, DIDI Alumni
Mohammed Orikat
Founder, Voithy
Jose Rubinger
CEO and Co-founder, Key2enable
Get involved
Other NMSS Programs & Initiatives
Our programs help people with MS stay active, get creative, and connect with others. Whether it’s through physical wellness, art therapy, or community events, we’re here to support you.
Themed discussions for and by the people living with MS, with the presence and support of decision-makers, experts and professionals in various fields are delivered.
