Qatar Foundation’s Ability Friendly Program organized an inclusive football league for people with disabilities, offering a dynamic platform where athletes could compete in a supportive and empowering environment. The initiative aimed to showcase their talents, promote personal growth, and foster social inclusion through the power of sport.

The event reflects Qatar Foundation’s (QF) commitment to promoting diversity, ensuring equal opportunities for participation, and empowering all members of the community to help build a more inclusive future. It also aimed to highlight the importance of inclusive sports and raise public awareness of sports’ role in supporting individual development and well-being.

The league saw participation from several specialized centers and institutions, including the Ability Friendly Program, Renad Academy, Qatar Institute for Speech and Hearing (QISH), Texas Center for People with Disabilities, Special Olympics Qatar, Happy World Center, Shafallah Center, The Hemm Center for People with Special Needs, and Afaq Primary Private School.

The Ability Friendly Program under QF’s Pre-University Education offers sport-specific activities for children and adults with disabilities, providing sports and developmental activities including specialized camps and football and swimming classes.

Dr. Mohamed Abu Lbdeh, father of 10-year-old Tamim Abu Lbdeh, who participated in the tournament and accompanied his son throughout the event, said: “From the very first day, I felt a deep sense of happiness seeing my son take part in this tournament, not just for the chance to compete, but because it plays a vital role in helping children discover and develop their abilities.

“I encourage all parents to actively support their children in engaging with opportunities like this. These experiences have a profoundly positive impact on a child’s emotional and behavioral development. They offer a powerful outlet for self-expression and play a key role in building confidence and resilience.”

Dr. Abu Lbdeh emphasized that children with autism often possess tremendous energy, and it is crucial to channel that energy through structured, meaningful activities that promote both expression and social engagement. He explainedthat his son has been participating in the Ability Friendly Program for over three years, taking part in various activities beyond football, including swimming and horse riding.

“These experiences have been instrumental in his growth, helping him develop practical skills and boosting his self-confidence,” he said.

“I’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in my son’s behavior. He’s become more engaged with his peers and is gradually adapting to group play and collaborative activities, something that used to be a significant challenge.”

Dr. Abu Lbdeh highlighted the unique impact of combining recreational and therapeutic elements in programs like this: “They help children feel more included and confident, while also offering healthy alternatives to isolation and screen dependency.

“Every child, regardless of ability, has their own unique strengths. What matters most is creating environments that allow those abilities to emerge, often in the simplest moments during play or interaction. The real value of these experiences lies not in winning, but in participation, in giving children the opportunity to grow, express themselves, and build meaningful connections.”

Asmaa Hassan, mother of nine-year-old Khalifa, reflected on the tournament experience by saying: “My son participated in several matches and even reached the final, which was a proud moment. More importantly, the experience brought a positive shift in his behavior and how he engages with others.

“Children with autism benefit immensely from opportunities like these. They help develop communication skills, break down social barriers, and encourage healthy relationships within their surroundings.”

Hassan explained that the benefits of the tournament extend beyond sports: “My son used to struggle with sharing or coping with the idea of losing. But through the matches and consistent training, he’s become more flexible and open to new experiences.

“I hope these kinds of activities can be offered more regularly. They provide children with ongoing opportunities for development, help build confidence, and allow them to form friendships beyond the traditional classroom setting.

“The coaches were outstanding patient, understanding, and always present. They explained things calmly and supported Khalifa whenever he needed it. That level of care makes a real difference for both the children and their families.”

“Although this was our first time joining the program, I felt its positive impact from the very beginning. This experience gave my son a meaningful opportunity to express himself.”

For more information about QF’s Ability Friendly Program, email abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa or call 44541398 or30689576.