ZHO: Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination – Abu Dhabi

Published September 23, 2026

ZHO: Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination – Abu Dhabi

For families of children with disabilities in Abu Dhabi, understanding the government support system can make it easier to find education, rehabilitation, early intervention, therapy, vocational training and other services.

One of the key organizations families should know about is the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO).

What is ZHO?

The Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO) is a government organization in Abu Dhabi that brings together humanitarian, social and rehabilitation services for People of Determination.

It was established in 2004 with the aim of bringing humanitarian service centres in Abu Dhabi under one umbrella and coordinating services for People of Determination. In 2019, its name was officially changed to Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination. (ZHO⁠)

The UAE Government describes ZHO as an umbrella organization for humanitarian bodies, social services and institutions serving People of Determination in Abu Dhabi. Its broader goal includes supporting the inclusion and participation of People of Determination in society. (U.AE⁠)

Who does ZHO support?

ZHO serves people with different types of disabilities and support needs. This includes children and adults with developmental, intellectual, physical and other disabilities.

For families of autistic children, ZHO may therefore be relevant, particularly when looking for early intervention, education, rehabilitation, assessment, vocational preparation or other specialized support.

ZHO is not an autism-only organization. Its services cover multiple categories of People of Determination.

What services does ZHO provide?

ZHO’s services extend beyond a single type of therapy. The organization operates care and rehabilitation centres and provides a range of educational, therapeutic, rehabilitation and support services.

According to ZHO, its services have expanded to include areas such as:

In 2024, ZHO reported that it was serving more than 25,000 beneficiaries, with 1,870 students enrolled in 19 care and rehabilitation centres across Abu Dhabi. (Zayed Higher Organization⁠)

The organization has also reported services and centres across areas including Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. (ZHO⁠)

ZHO and early intervention

Early intervention can be particularly important for families of young children who have developmental delays or have received a diagnosis.

ZHO provides early-intervention services through its care and rehabilitation centres. Its services include assessment and therapeutic support, with the organization continuing to expand and digitize some of its services. (ZHO⁠)

For parents, it is important to ask ZHO directly about current eligibility requirements, age limits, assessment requirements and availability, as these can vary according to the service and the child’s needs.

ZHO and autism

Autism is one of the areas addressed within ZHO’s broader work with People of Determination.

The organization has also been involved in autism-focused research and professional events. In 2024, ZHO hosted the 12th International Autism Research Conference, focusing on challenges and solutions in autism and bringing together organizations and professionals working in the field. (Zayed Higher Organization⁠)

ZHO has also partnered with healthcare providers on assessment and rehabilitation services. One partnership, for example, included comprehensive assessments, diagnostic reports, psychological and behavioural therapy, parent education and treatment sessions. (Zayed Higher Organization⁠)

Education and rehabilitation

For school-age children, ZHO’s care and rehabilitation centres can provide educational and developmental support for eligible People of Determination.

The organization reported having more than 1,800 students in its care centres in 2024, alongside a wider beneficiary population receiving different services. (ZHO⁠)

Families should note that ZHO services are not the same as mainstream school inclusion services. A child attending a mainstream private or government school may have a different pathway for educational support.

Parents should therefore clarify whether they are looking for:

ZHO centre-based services → education, rehabilitation, intervention and specialized support

or

mainstream school inclusion → accommodations and support within a regular school environment.

Vocational training and employment

ZHO’s work also extends into adulthood.

The organization has developed vocational education and work-readiness programmes designed to help People of Determination develop practical skills and prepare for employment.

In 2025, ZHO announced that its Level 1 and Level 2 vocational education programmes had received accreditation under the UAE National Qualifications Framework. (Zayed Higher Organization⁠)

ZHO has also reported partnerships with public and private-sector organizations to create employment opportunities. In 2024, it reported providing employment opportunities for 80 People of Determination through such partnerships and enrolling 400 students with intellectual disabilities and autism in a Level 2 Work Readiness Certification Program. (Zayed Higher Organization⁠)

This is an important part of the organization’s broader approach: support is not limited to childhood, but can extend toward skills development, independence and participation in the workforce.

Assistive technology and innovation

Technology is another growing area within ZHO.

The organization has introduced initiatives involving assistive technology and digital accessibility. In 2025, ZHO launched two Naqra learning labs in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain in collaboration with Key2Enable. The labs were designed particularly to support people with cerebral palsy in developing digital and technical skills and accessing government transactions. (Zayed Higher Organization⁠)

ZHO has also reported using artificial intelligence and other technologies in initiatives supporting People of Determination. (Zayed Higher Organization⁠)

Other services families may find useful

The UAE Government’s services directory lists several ZHO-related services, including:

The availability and eligibility of individual services can vary, so families should check the current government requirements before applying. (Federal Supreme Council⁠)

Is ZHO only for UAE citizens?

This is an important question for families living in Abu Dhabi.

Not every ZHO service necessarily has the same eligibility criteria. Eligibility can depend on factors such as residency status, disability classification, age, service type and available capacity.

Therefore, families who are expatriates should not assume that they are either automatically eligible or automatically excluded. It is best to check the requirements for the specific service they need.

How can parents get started?

If you are a parent of a child with autism, developmental delay or another disability and live in Abu Dhabi, a practical starting point is to:

  1. Identify the service you need – early intervention, assessment, education, therapy, vocational support, sports or another service.

  2. Check the current eligibility requirements.

  3. Complete any required assessment or documentation.

  4. Ask about available centres and waiting lists.

  5. Confirm whether the service is currently available for your child’s age and disability category.

ZHO’s services and programmes continue to evolve, so parents should verify current information directly through the official government channels rather than relying on older social-media posts or third-party listings.

ZHO at a glance

Details

Full name

Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination

Location

Abu Dhabi, UAE

Type

Government organization

Established

2004

Main focus

Services, rehabilitation, education and empowerment of People of Determination

Autism services

Autism is included within its broader disability services

Key areas

Early intervention, education, rehabilitation, assessment, vocational training, employment, sports and assistive technology

Areas served

Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra

Important for parents

Eligibility and availability vary by service

A note for parents

ZHO is one of the major government organizations to be aware of when navigating disability services in Abu Dhabi. However, it is not a replacement for every private therapy centre, school, hospital or autism service provider.

For an autistic child, families may need support from several parts of the system—for example, a pediatrician or developmental specialist, therapy providers, a school, and government disability services.

The most appropriate pathway will depend on the child’s individual needs, age, diagnosis, residency status and the services currently available.

Always confirm current eligibility, fees, documentation requirements and waiting-list information directly with the relevant Abu Dhabi government service before making decisions.

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