The UAE and Gulf Countries’ Cultural Characteristics and Their Influence on Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can affect individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and heritages. Many cultural factors may change the individuals’ ASD experience in daily life. It also impacts how autism is tackled, interpreted, and acknowledged in various communities. Cultural perceptions about ASD and other disabilities may prevent people from seeking the help they need. Factors like gender, language, religion, economic status, nationality, beliefs, and values can lead to cultural differences even within the same ethnic group. The Gulf region has unique characteristics, such as religious beliefs, cultural and traditional interpretations, and social repercussions, which might impact early ASD diagnosis and intervention. This paper aims to discuss the impact of cultural aspects of the UAE and other GCC countries on the ASD situation.