MUSCAT: Oman joined the rest of the Gulf region in marking Purple Saturday, concluding a week-long campaign promoting the inclusion, empowerment and accessibility of persons with disabilities.
Observed under the slogan 'A Day with a Lasting Impact,' the initiative seeks to strengthen social inclusion, reinforce corporate social responsibility, raise awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities and encourage organisations to make their services more accessible and responsive to diverse needs.
Held annually on the last Saturday of July, Purple Saturday is a Gulf-wide initiative that supports national efforts to promote accessibility, equal opportunities and full participation of persons with disabilities in economic and social life. Public and private sector institutions, including commercial, service and tourism establishments, are encouraged to adopt inclusive practices and improve accessibility.
Speaking to Observer, Hassan al Lawati, Chairman of the Oman Association for the People with Disabilities, said that although Purple Saturday is officially observed on the last Saturday of July, activities continued throughout the following week, recognised as Purple Week, with awareness campaigns and promotional offers for people with disabilities running until August 1.
"Purple Week is built around three key pillars," Al Lawati said. "The first is the humanitarian and social pillar, which promotes the values of inclusion and social justice. The second is the economic and development pillar, where businesses play a vital role in supporting and empowering different segments of society through corporate social responsibility. The third is the awareness pillar, which emphasises that support for people with disabilities should continue throughout the year and not be confined to a single day."
He noted that Oman began observing Purple Saturday in 2021 as part of a shared Gulf commitment to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities while promoting equality, dignity and social inclusion.
Purple, the internationally recognised colour representing the rights of persons with disabilities, symbolises dignity, diversity and the recognition of their abilities and contributions to society.
Al Lawati said Purple Week also focuses on easing the financial burden on persons with disabilities and their families by encouraging businesses to offer discounts, exclusive services and accessible facilities. The initiative also encourages companies to integrate inclusive practices into their corporate social responsibility programmes.
"Over the years, Purple Saturday has helped raise awareness, bridge accessibility gaps and highlight the importance of creating physical and digital environments that are inclusive and accessible to everyone," he said.
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