Proceeds from the limited-edition IncluCoin will help fund initiatives promoting inclusion and autism care.
Abu Dhabi has launched what is being described as the world’s first commemorative coin dedicated to supporting People of Determination, with proceeds set to fund projects that promote inclusion and improve quality of life.
The limited-edition IncluCoin for Sustainable Impact was unveiled by the Department of Community Development (DCD), in collaboration with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, and the Central Bank of the UAE, during the inaugural Abu Dhabi Excellence Award for People of Determination Inclusion (Damj).
The commemorative coin will fund projects focused on autism care, inclusion, and community living for adults with disabilities. It also underscores the UAE’s commitment to empowering People of Determination and fostering their full participation in society.
Featuring artwork inspired by People of Determination, the commemorative coin serves as both a symbol of recognition and a means of encouraging community contributions. Individuals and organisations can obtain the coin through a dedicated platform launched by Ma’an, with proceeds supporting inclusive community projects.
Hamad Ali Al Dhaheri, Undersecretary of the Department of Community Development (DCD), said the initiative reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision of developing innovative solutions that combine community participation with sustainable social impact.
Al Dhaheri said the coin builds on Abu Dhabi’s efforts to embed inclusion as a lasting social and institutional practice by creating opportunities that enable People of Determination to participate confidently and independently in society.
Abdullah Al Ameri, Director General of Ma’an, said the initiative offers individuals and organisations a meaningful way to support projects that directly improve the lives of People of Determination and their families.
He added that, beyond its symbolic significance, the coin serves as a practical funding mechanism to expand inclusion initiatives and ensure their long-term sustainability.
Abdulla Al Kamali, Executive Director of the People of Determination Sector at the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, said the initiative aligns with the goals of the Abu Dhabi Strategy for People of Determination by enhancing quality of life, increasing opportunities for community participation, and promoting greater independence.
The launch also highlights the growing importance of the “Purple Economy” — a concept that promotes the economic inclusion of People of Determination through greater employment opportunities, accessible environments, and inclusive services.
Speaking to Gulf News, international disability expert Mike Adams described the initiative as an important step that extends beyond symbolism.
“The coin creates a framework for sustainable community support and helps strengthen economic opportunities for People of Determination. The UAE continues to set a strong example in promoting inclusion and empowering people to live independently,” he said.
Hayat Bouchair, professor of psychology and rehabilitation specialist, also told Gulf News that Abu Dhabi had introduced an innovative model by transforming a commemorative coin into a sustainable funding mechanism for inclusion initiatives.
She said the proceeds would directly fund projects that expand opportunities and improve the quality of life of People of Determination, making the initiative the first of its kind in the world.
