Background image

Celebrating Inclusion & Excellence

Damj Award

Leadership in promoting and enabling the inclusion of People of Determination in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Apply Now
About the Award

About the Award

The Abu Dhabi Excellence Award for People of Determination Inclusion – Damj was announced under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. The award adopts a unique vision aimed at empowering all members of society and enhancing opportunities for POD across various sectors. Held every 2 years, the award seeks to ensure a more inclusive and sustainable society by encouraging and recognizing innovation and excellence in the delivery of services and projects that meet the needs of this group and improve their quality of life. 

Read More

Award Categories & Pillars

Explore the different categories where excellence in accessibility and inclusion is recognized
Award Icon

Inclusive Services

6 Awards

This pillar honors organizations that demonstrate excellence in providing inclusive services in Abu Dhabi, ensuring equitable access to essential services, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for People of Determination.

Read More
Award Icon

Inclusive Employment

2 Awards

This pillar honors organizations that demonstrate excellence in providing inclusive employment in Abu Dhabi by creating a professional environment that meets the requirements and needs of People of Determination and aligns with their abilities.

Read More
Award Icon

Accessibility
(Physical & Digital)

2 Awards

This pillar honors organizations in Abu Dhabi that demonstrate excellence in creating inclusive physical and digital environments. It ensures that POD have easy access to facilities, services, and information.

Read More

Be  Part of the Damj Award

Start your application and join Abu Dhabi’s journey towards true inclusion. Your organization’s commitment can shape better services, accessible design, and real opportunities for People of Determination.

Apply Now
Illustration
Illustration

Eligibility Criteria

For Abu Dhabi-based entities committed to disability inclusion.

  • Pillar 1

    Inclusive Services

    1. The applicant organization must be based in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
    2. The organization must have been established for at least two years in Abu Dhabi.
    3. A valid commercial license in Abu Dhabi is required for private sector organizations.
  • Pillar 2

    Inclusive Employment

    1. The applicant organization must be based in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
    2. The organization must have been established for at least two years in Abu Dhabi.
    3. A valid commercial license in Abu Dhabi is required for private sector organizations.
  • Pillar 3

    Accessibility (Physical & Digital)

    1. The applicant organization must be based in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
    2. The entity must have been established for at least two years in Abu Dhabi.
    3. A valid commercial license in Abu Dhabi is required for private sector organizations.

Timeline

View All
A detailed timeline covering all award phases and important milestones.

#1 Award Announcement

1st January 2025

#2 Awareness Workshops

1st February - 31st July 2025

#3 Submissions’ Closure Date

1st August – 31st August 2025

#4 First Stage Assessment - Online

1st–30th September 2025

#5 On-site Assessment

1st – 31st October 2025

#6 Finalist Notification

1st - 31st December 2025

#7 Award Ceremony

15th January 2026

Media Center

Read More
  • News Image
    March 1, 2025
    Award Applications Now Open
    Organizations across Abu Dhabi are invited to submit their entries for the 2025 Damj Award.
  • News Image
    March 1, 2025
    Orientation Workshops Kick Off in April
    A series of bilingual workshops will guide entities on the award criteria, application process, and best practices in disability inclusion.
  • News Image
    March 1, 2025
    New Accessibility Guidelines Released
    DCD publishes updated digital and physical accessibility standards to support participating organizations in meeting award requirements.