Universal Access · HCD Institute UAE × IUCDS
Where there are only stairs, we build a way for everyone.
We audit and certify public places, services and digital systems for accessibility and universal design, so they work for People of Determination and for everyone else. Measured against UAE law and codes, and raised to European standards.
Why we exist
Access is the law. Ease is the goal.
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act makes access a right, not a favour. But a ramp can meet the rule and still fail the person using it. We close that gap: we audit what's built, run and published against one layered standard, and certify only what truly works for everyone.
01
Independent audits
We measure physical, digital and service assets carefully, then walk them with persons with disabilities, so lived experience checks the numbers.
The framework02
A mark that means something
Three tiers: the floor set by UAE law and codes, universal design proven in use, and European standard. Time-bound, re-audited and listed publicly.
Certification tiers03
Help to get there
A certificate isn't the end. Every gap report comes with a prioritised plan, plus design and training support. We're the applied arm of the Universal Design programme at IUCDS.
Universal Design programmeWhat we look at
Five domains, read as one journey.
01
Built Environment
Getting there, getting in, moving around, going up, washrooms, refuge and getting out.
02
Mobility & Transport
Parking and drop-off, step-free routes, transit stops, ticketing and boarding.
03
Wayfinding & Communication
Signs, tactile and audible guidance, contrast, plain language, sign language and captions.
04
Digital & ICT
Websites, apps, kiosks, documents and public-service technology.
05
Service & Experience
Ready staff, reasonable accommodation, help when it's needed, and emergencies that include everyone.
The mark
Three tiers of certification.
Tier I
Compliant
Meets the floor set by UAE federal law and emirate codes, across every relevant domain.
Tier detailsTier II
Universal
Compliant, and shown to work for everyone, in real use.
Tier detailsTier III · Gold
Design for All
Meets or beats European and international standards, with accessibility built into how the organisation works.
Tier detailsWho's behind it
HCD Institute and IUCDS, Mahatma Gandhi University.
Universal Access is a joint initiative of The Institute of Human-Centred Design (HCD Institute) and the Inter University Centre for Disability Studies (IUCDS), Mahatma Gandhi University. In the UAE it works hand in hand with Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, the National Policy for Empowering People of Determination and the Dubai Universal Design Code, towards a city for everyone.
It's where the Universal Design programme at IUCDS gets put to work.
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