The Digital Accessibility Policy includes a set of principles and standards that must be followed to ensure people of determination’s accessibility to government services via digital platforms.
In an effort to advance the digital knowledge society and economy, the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) has highlighted the importance of adhering to the principles delineated in the National Digital Accessibility Policy endorsed by the cabinet. This policy aims to streamline access to a wide array of digital services for all sectors of society, including individuals with disabilities and senior citizens.
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The National Digital Accessibility Policy draws upon numerous international references and agreements, aiming to guarantee equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities to access services and information across various platforms and websites. This policy underscores the TDRA's commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that people of determination can fully participate in the digital realm. This entails removing barriers that hinder their ability to benefit from these services and platforms.
This policy aligns with ‘The UAE Government Charter for Future Services,’ which places people at the forefront when designing services and policies. By prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity, the National Digital Accessibility Policy reflects the government's commitment to ensuring that all individuals, including those with disabilities, can benefit from government services and initiatives. It emphasizes the importance of listening to customers' needs and delivering services that offer exceptional value and a seamless, proactive experience, regardless of individuals' capabilities or social backgrounds.
Leaving No One Behind
This policy plays a pivotal role in reinforcing the UAE's leadership in digital transformation. Furthermore, it contributes to the country's efforts toward sustainable development and aligns with the humanitarian objectives outlined by the United Nations. By adhering to the principle of "leaving no one behind," the policy ensures that all individuals, regardless of ability, can actively participate in and benefit from the digital revolution.
H.E. Eng. Majed Sultan Al Mesmar, TDRA Director General, highlighted the importance of implementing the directives and standards stipulated in the policy. He said, “TDRA is confident that government entities will spare no effort in putting this policy into effect, in line with the objectives of ‘We the UAE 2031’ vision. This vision emphasizes establishing an advanced and integrated social enabling system to unlock the potential of all UAE citizens and fosters the development of a ‘Forward Ecosystem.’ By embracing the next generation of advanced digital technologies, we aim to create the smartest, most dynamic, agile government in the world.”
Meanwhile, Eng. Mohammad Al Zarooni, TDRA Deputy Director General for the Information and Digital Government Sector, said, “TDRA is tasked with ensuring the provision of suitable digital infrastructure to enhance digital accessibility and elevate the quality of digital services provided to citizens and residents. This entails formulating the requisite regulatory framework to achieve the policy’s objectives and ensure their efficient execution. Recently, TDRA introduced the UAE Design System 2.0 for government websites, prioritizing comprehensive accessibility within this framework. By adhering to the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) guidelines and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, federal government entities in the UAE are guided to achieve compliance with the ‘AA’ level classification.”
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In collaboration with federal and local government entities, TDRA is actively engaged in developing programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing digital accessibility and delivering comprehensive and efficient digital government services to cater to all segments of society, including people of determination and senior citizens, ensuring inclusivity and equal access to essential digital services.
