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Tribune News Network
Doha
HAMAD International Airport (HIA) conducted an engaging visit for children with special needs from Shafallah Center, one of Qatar Foundation for Social Work's (QFSW) affiliated centers.
Visitors between eight and 12 years old visited HIA and enjoyed a tour of the facilities and other entertaining activities, stemming from the partnership between HIA and Shafallah announced last month. The joint effort is aimed at providing additional services to passengers with special needs.
In addition to touring HIA's impressive retail and dining outlets, Shafallah children enjoyed admiring the airport's outstanding art collection featuring iconic pieces from both local and internationally renowned artists, including the bright yellow Lamp Bear by Urs Fischer, Small Lie by KAWS, and HIA's latest eye-catching addition, Cosmos.
Amal Abdullatif al Mannai, Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Foundation Social Work and Acting Chief Executive Officer at Shafallah Center, said:"Hamad International Airport's initiative demonstrates that the right steps are being taken towards inclusivity in Qatar as our members were invited to enjoy and experience HIA's wonderful facilities. By working closely with HIA, we are committed to helping improve the airport's services and facilities for those requiring additional assistance."
Commenting on the visit, Engr. Badr Mohammed al Meer, Chief Operating Officer at Hamad International Airport, said:"At HIA, we are committed to offering comprehensive support services for all passengers, regardless of their needs. We are proud to host Shafallah Center's members for tours and activities as we strengthen our inclusivity and work towards making HIA a special needs friendly airport. We are committed to developing HIA to reflect an inclusive society."
This tour follows the signing of the partnership between HIA and Shafallah Center, announced earlier this month. The joint effort, formalized with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU), is aimed at providing more comprehensive services and support to passengers with special needs.
HIA's infrastructure and support services cater to passengers requiring additional assistance. Barrier-free access, dedicated facilities, and a network of elevators, escalators, ramps and walkways are designed to improve and simplify the travel experience for special needs passengers. Special handling lounges are available within the terminal, offering comfortable seating and trained attendants, for the comfort of passengers who require special assistance. Airport ground staff have been trained on the basics of handling and assisting customers with special needs by subject experts from Al Shafallah Centre.
