Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
How far can one coin go? In the UAE, the new IncluCoin aims to go as far as making a difference in the lives of people of determination.
The limited-edition commemorative coin is designed to shift community support from one-off donations to long-term social investment in building a more inclusive society, according to an official at the Department of Community Development (DCD) Abu Dhabi.
"Every IncluCoin contribution is linked to a measurable social outcome," said Talal Faris, Vulnerable Groups Division Manager at DCD, in a recent interview with Aletihad.
Funding generated through the coin will be closely monitored to ensure transparency, accountability, and lasting impact for people of determination and their families, he said.
"We will track not only how many people benefit, but also how their lives improve - whether through better access to services, greater independence, improved quality of life, or stronger inclusion in the community," Faris added.
Launched in June in collaboration with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, and the Central Bank of the UAE, IncluCoin is the first commemorative coin of its kind to incentivise a structured social investment mechanism.
"It brings together government, philanthropy, the private sector, and the wider community to fund evidence-based projects with measurable outcomes, creating a scalable model that can be replicated across sectors and jurisdictions," Faris said.
Featuring designs inspired by people of determination, the IncluCoin serves as a symbol of national recognition, a catalyst for community participation, and a mechanism for supporting priority projects.
In its initial phase, proceeds will go toward high-impact projects focused on autism care and community living. As the platform scales, future editions may support other priority areas - including inclusive employment, education, AI and assistive technology, and accessibility - based on Abu Dhabi's strategic priorities and emerging needs, Faris explained.
People of determination will play a central role in shaping the initiative's direction. They are "at the heart" of the IncluCoin initiative, Faris said, noting that they will help set priorities, direct projects, and evaluate outcomes.
Their active participation, he added, will ensure funded initiatives "respond to real requirements and create meaningful, sustainable impact."
"This reflects Abu Dhabi's rights-based approach, which recognises people of determination as active partners in development and community life," Faris said.
