Decree No. (21) of 2001 Establishing the Dubai Autism Centre

Decree No. (21) of 2001

Establishing the Dubai Autism Centre[1]

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We, Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai,

Inspired by the eternal divine Islamic message, and in pursuit of its noble humanitarian objectives, and to fulfill the values of solidarity, cooperation and rapport and for providing suitable conditions and services to individuals with Autism;

Do hereby issue the following Decree:

Article (1)

The following words and expressions shall have the meaning indicated opposite each of them unless the context implies otherwise:

DAC:	The Dubai Autism Centre.
Board of Directors:	The board of directors of the Dubai Autism Centre.
Chairman:	The chairman of the Board of Directors.
Autism:	A condition that accompanies an individual throughout his developmental stages and affects the way he deals and communicates with others as well as his relationships with people around him, thus prevents him from efficiently communicating and dealing with others, from understanding their feelings and from establishing friendships with them.

Article (2)

A centre known as “Dubai Autism Centre” shall be established in Dubai and shall be a legal person with financial and administrative autonomy. It may undertake any act that is consistent with its objectives. It may sue and be sued in its own name and may own moveable and immoveable property.

Article (3)

DAC shall have the following objectives:

1. To conduct research and studies to explore facts related to Autism in the United Arab Emirates;

2. To raise community awareness of the needs of individuals with Autism and their families and caretakers;

3. To raise awareness and enhance the competence of persons dealing with individuals with Autism and with their families and caretakers;

4. To provide educational, psychological and rehabilitation services, and efficient care and support to individuals with Autism and to their families and caretakers;

5. To establish a library containing publications and research material related to Autism;

6. To coordinate and direct regional efforts to raise awareness of Autism, its symptoms, and the requirements for dealing with individuals with Autism ; and

7. To participate in the development of international Autism information networks.

Article (4)

The financial resources of DAC shall be comprised of subsidies, donations and contributions provided by authorities, public corporations, associations, companies and individuals, which are acceptable to the Board of Directors, as well as any charitable endowment.

Article (5)

The head office of DAC shall be based in Dubai. DAC may, pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors, establish branches or offices anywhere else in the United Arab Emirates.

Article (6)

DAC shall be managed by a Board of Directors comprised of a Chairman and at least five (5) members which is formed pursuant to a resolution of the Chairman. The Board of Directors shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years renewable for one or more terms.

Article (7)

The Board of Directors shall have the power to:

1. Prepare the internal regulations of the Board of Directors;

2. Prepare the financial and administrative bylaws of DAC; and

3. Set the general policy of DAC and make the decisions required for the implementation of such policy.

Article (8)

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shall be appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors, and shall appoint other members from amongst experienced and dedicated persons.

Article (9)

This Decree shall come into force on the day on which it is issued and shall be published in the Official Gazette.

Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Ruler of Dubai

Issued in Dubai on 18 November 2001

Corresponding to 3 Ramadan 1422 A.H.

[1]Every effort has been made to produce an accurate and complete English version of this legislation. However, for the purpose of its interpretation and application, reference must be made to the original Arabic text. In case of conflict, the Arabic text shall prevail.