Qatar Foundation’s Ability Friendly Program began in 2018 with just 21 swimmers and nine footballers, offering a safe, supportive environment where children and adults with special needs could build skills and confidence. Today, it welcomes over 300 participants each week across swimming, football, basketball, golf, equine therapy, playball, and multi-activity programs.

Kathleen V. Bates, Head of the Ability Friendly Program - which falls under Qatar Foundation’s (QF’s) Pre-University Education – explains that the program ensures accessibility and inclusion by focusing first and foremost on the abilities of each participant and what they can do.

“Our sports curriculum has been designed and developed over many years, with a strong emphasis on proper sport development rather than limitations,” she says. “All activities are adapted and modified based on individual needs, and adjustments are made continuously to create an inclusive and supportive environment.

“Our coaches play a critical role in this process, using their experience and creativity to adapt skills and movements so every participant can engage, progress, and succeed. And we intentionally work to engage individuals with more complex needs who may not have access to other available programs.”

According to Bates, community participation is essential because inclusive sport cannot exist in isolation. A key focus for the Ability Friendly Program is education, which engages practitioners, coaches, physical education teachers, and organizations across the country and region. By equipping them with knowledge and tools to be more inclusive, they can return to their clubs, schools, and community programs better prepared to welcome and support individuals of all abilities.

The team also works closely with community schools and centers to involve them in competitions, helping to normalize inclusion and create sustainable pathways beyond the Ability Friendly Program initiatives.

Beyond athletic achievements, the program aims to have a deeper impact on families. Through initiatives such as the Qader Award, the Ability Friendly Program enables access for those who may not otherwise be able to afford to participate by providing financial support. Families become part of the community, sharing milestones, celebrating birthdays, and forming lifelong connections. In this way, the program extends beyond sport, becoming a meaningful part of families’ lives.

And the impact of this inclusive philosophy is best reflected in the journeys of the participants themselves. “One young swimmer, who was initially asked to leave a mainstream program because her needs could not be met, thrived after joining the Ability Friendly Program,” Bates explains.

“With the right coaching and inclusive support, she not only caught up with her peers but became the program’s top female swimmer. Her journey underscores a critical lesson: ability was never the barrier – access and inclusion were. Many participants have progressed to compete in mainstream events nationwide, achieving remarkable success and showcasing the program’s dedication to removing barriers.”

The Ability Friendly Program is growing. New initiatives include a comprehensive coaching education program with eight courses covering everything from disability awareness to advanced inclusive coaching strategies. And competitive pathways continue to expand, exemplified by events like the Al Dasha Football Cup, which hosted 168 footballers across 24 teams, and the Yalla Swimming Competition, which brought together more than 120 swimmers from 12 teams.

Families interested in future terms are encouraged to join the waiting list for the next registration window.

For more information, please email abilityfriendly@qf.org.qa or visit: www.qf.org.qa/community/ability-friendly-program.

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