Abu Dhabi's major landmarks were bathed in red light on Friday night in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics.
Emirates Palace, Sheikh Zayed Bridge and Yas Hotel joined major monuments, stadia and iconic buildings around the world in a global display of unity.
The event marked the ‘inclusion evolution’ - Special Olympics’ mission to end discrimination against People of Determination with intellectual disabilities and to create inclusive communities worldwide.
Timothy Shriver, Special Olympics International Chairman, said “We are grateful for the tremendous support to help celebrate and raise awareness for people with intellectual disabilities regardless of where they live in the world. ‘Light Up for Inclusion’ symbolises the continuation and evolution of Special Olympics’ mission.”
The 17 UAE buildings lit in red, joined more than 225 landmarks around the world, including the London Eye, the Empire State Building, Sydney Opera House, the Nelson Mandela Statue in Johannesburg, and The Water Cube in Beijing.
“The UAE is committed to encouraging and supporting People of Determination so that they can play a greater role in society. The host of national landmarks participating in the Light Up initiative symbolises the UAE’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, unified society as we look ahead to Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019,” said Khalfan al Mazrouei, Managing Director of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.
