A new community-led centre in Doha is helping families of autistic individuals in Qatar build inclusion, support networks, and public awareness.
Families of individuals on the autism spectrum in Qatar continue to face social barriers, limited opportunities, and a lack of public understanding. But a new community-led initiative is beginning to shift that narrative, one step at a time.
For many families, the journey is defined by loneliness, exclusion, and a persistent sense of judgment. Jameela Alyafei, whose 30-year-old son Ahmad is on the spectrum, described years of difficulty starting from the day of his diagnosis.
“When he became 6 years old, the schools refused to take Ahmad,” she recalled. “They would tell you we can’t. We can’t take him because we can’t deal with this situation, with this movement.”
Ahmad eventually found a place at the Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities at age eight, where he stayed until graduating at 21. Teachers described him as social and a natural leader, but the period was far from easy.
“There were no activities for him […] he just goes to Shafallah and then home,” said Alyafei. Despite her son’s abilities, she says bias and misunderstanding prevent people like him from fully participating in society.
“My son has skills. But I don’t think people believe they can be productive members of the community.”
A new community space
A step toward change came with the opening of the Autism Parents Platform’s new centre at The Pearl in Doha. It’s the first of its kind in Qatar, designed for people with autism and other disabilities, and run by a group of dedicated mothers.
Omayya Osman, the general manager, said the centre differs from other spaces because it’s built around sensory-friendly design, social engagement, and inclusive programming. Facilities include a sensory room, a quiet space, messy play areas, and dance and art workshops.
Ahmad is now a regular visitor. “He comes to do activities, to see people, to see others with the same abilities,” said Alyafei. Just as important, the centre gives her a place to connect with other parents. “Now I can finally share our experience and learn from others.”
The centre also hosts parent support groups for mothers, fathers, and siblings. “This helps a lot,” said Osman.
Neurotypical children are invited to participate in activities too. “We want our kids with disabilities to engage with the community,” Osman explained. “If he’s clapping, screaming, or excited, that’s his way of expressing happiness. That’s part of spreading awareness.”
From online support to a national platform
The Autism Parents Platform was founded by three Qatari mothers – Hamda Alhitmi, Aisha Alamari, and Noora Aleida – in 2020. What started as an online support group evolved into a growing advocacy movement.
“We didn’t want to keep our kids behind closed doors,” said Aleida. “They are part of this society.”
Over five years, the group held public events, trained parents and organisations, and advocated for autism inclusion in national celebrations such as Sports Day and Autism Awareness Month.
Now, with their own physical centre, Aleida says they can better meet the needs of children on the spectrum. “People’s mindsets have changed. They’re more aware that this isn’t something to fear.”Parents like Laarni Alvarez, whose 10-year-old son Alexander attends the centre, say it’s making a difference. “He calls it his happy place.”
The centre’s next goal is helping adults with autism find employment.
“We want to hire them,” said Osman. “If someone is verbal and capable, we have to find something for him. And if not, we create it.”
Alyafei believes in her son’s potential. “He already has medals in athletics. He loves drawing. He could work in packaging. He just needs a chance.”
“They should treat him like anyone else. Not just a ‘special needs’ person,” she added.
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