White Cane March held at EXPO2020 to support the visually impaired

The march was part of the International White Cane Day that is observed worldwide every year on October 15 to recognise visually impaired people's achievements.

The march was led by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination and was organised by the Ministry of Community Development in collaboration with the Emirates Association of Visually Impaired.

Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed said: "The UAE's leadership is committed to creating an empowering environment for people of determination to participate equally in all sectors and spheres of life. The UAE believes in the power of inclusiveness and in implementing it in its full spirit to provide people of determination with opportunities to realise their talent and potential and contribute to shaping the future of the nation. Therefore, we will continue to spare no effort in enabling people of determination to not only function in society with ease and independence but also live their lives to the fullest."

The White Cane March featured the military band of Dubai Police. Etisalat supported the event as the main partner. Several senior officials, visually impaired people and Expo visitors also participated in the event.

His Highness was accompanied by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development; Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai; and Abdullah Abdul-Ali Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination.

Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai, said: "The extensive and high-level participation in the White Cane March shows the UAE's commitment to integrating all members of the community without any exception and ensuring their wellbeing and happiness. This is reflected in our efforts to promote human development and dignity."

It is important to note that Expo 2020 Dubai offers free tickets to people of determination, while one of their companions can avail the ticket at a 50% discount.

They can also obtain a range of services by presenting approved government cards such as people of determination card and Sanad card in the UAE, as well as cards for Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payments (PIP), EU card for people of determination, the USA's ADA card for people of determination, and the French card for people of determination, among others.

Expo 2020 offers the 'PoDium' app, an interactive technology platform specifically designed to help people of determination tour the site and get information on accessible features and facilities in each pavilion. 

People of determination can enjoy accessible services at Dubai's airports and on Dubai Metro and Expo Rider buses and taxis, in addition to parking facilities at the venue and transport assistance to and from the car parks and within the venue.

.@sheikhmansoor leads the White Cane March held today at Expo 2020 #Dubai on the occasion of International White Cane Day. https://t.co/jOh19fnBWe pic.twitter.com/W5CaX3kZJ2

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 15, 2021