Oman today_ Coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has graciously directed the allocation of OMR 7 million for the establishment of a specialised care and rehabilitation centre for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Muscat Governorate.
The centre will be built in the Wilayat of Al Seeb, covering a total area of 26,000 square metres, and will operate under the supervision of the National Autism Centre. Once completed, it will provide daily services to up to 150 individuals with autism.
In parallel with this initiative, a study will be conducted to assess the need for similar centres in other governorates. Based on the prevalence of autism in each region, a clear plan and timeline will be developed for the expansion of such services across the Sultanate.
The centre is designed to offer a comprehensive, accessible, and supportive environment that delivers therapeutic, educational, and recreational services tailored to individuals with autism. With advanced facilities and specialised programmes, the centre will support the development of key skills and enable better integration of individuals with autism into society.
One of the centre’s distinguishing features in the region is the wide range of services it will provide — from specialised rehabilitation halls and customised recreational activities, to early diagnosis, temporary care for severe cases, and ongoing support for families through training and counselling.
In addition to providing direct care, the centre will play a pivotal role in training professionals in the field of autism. It will act as a national authority for issuing specialised licenses, and will lead training programmes for healthcare providers and families throughout Oman.
The establishment of this centre represents a major step toward achieving the goals of Oman Vision 2040, where health, inclusive education, social justice, and support for people with disabilities are among the central pillars of national development.
Establishment of Oman’s First Comprehensive Autism Centre Ordered by Sultan Haitham
