Introduction
The Universal Access Program is one of the most significant achievements of the King Salman Center for Disability Research, in collaboration with several local and international entities.
The project has been ongoing for more than three years, resulting in the creation of four Universal Accessibility Guides for the Universal Access Program: the Universal Accessibility Guide for the Built Environment, Land Transport, Maritime Transport, and the Universal Accessibility Guide for Tourist Destinations and Accommodation Sectors.
The Kingdom's government has demonstrated its commitment to people with disabilities through the issuance of the royal decree number (35362) dated (22-9-1434H) for the Universal Access Program at the national level.
The center issued the Universal Accessibility Guides in 2010, which now require updating to keep pace with recent developments in designing inclusive environments.
Objective of Updating the Universal Accessibility Guides
- Changes in Legislation and Standards: International and national laws and standards related to accessibility have evolved, necessitating updates to the guides to ensure compliance.
- Scientific Research and Field Experience: New studies and research published since 2010 highlight best practices in designing inclusive environments.
- Social and Demographic Changes: Changes in the population structure, such as the increasing percentage of the elderly or the rising number of people with disabilities in society, require that the guides reflect these changes to ensure the provision of inclusive and suitable environments for everyone.
- Changing Needs of Beneficiaries: The needs of people with disabilities have evolved over time, and the updated guides should reflect these changes to ensure they remain relevant to current needs.
- Trend Toward Sustainability: The growing interest in sustainable design and eco-friendly environments necessitates integrating sustainability principles with universal accessibility standards in the updated guides.
- Increasing Social Awareness: As awareness of the importance of inclusion and diversity grows, society now expects all environments and services to be accessible to everyone. Updating the guides reflects this increased awareness and provides tools to meet these expectations.
- Advances in Urban Design: Modern practices in urban and interior design have become more advanced and inclusive, requiring updates to the guides to incorporate these modern practices.
- Increased Need for Adaptation to Climate Change: Climate change and the growing occurrence of natural phenomena present new challenges to designing inclusive environments, requiring the inclusion of new strategies in the guides to adapt to these changes.
- Global Competitiveness: Countries and organizations that adopt universal accessibility and updated guides become more globally competitive, as they can attract more tourists and investors through their inclusive environments.
- Economic Challenges: Developing guides that include economic and effective solutions can help reduce costs in the long term by adopting more cost-effective designs.
- Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic: The pandemic has highlighted the importance of inclusive design in accessing healthcare and remote education services. The updated guides should include guidelines for adapting to global health crises.
Outcomes of the Universal Accessibility Guides Update Initiative
- Built Environment Guide
- Tourist Destinations and Accommodation Facilities Guide
- Transport Guide (Land, Maritime, and Air)
- Evacuation and Emergency Guide
There is no doubt that the cooperation of relevant entities and specialized centers in activating and applying the Universal Accessibility Guides will have a significant impact on achieving the desired results, making the initiative, God willing, a source of beneficial knowledge for people.
For Inquiries and Technical Support
We are happy to assist with any inquiries or technical support via the following email: info@kscdr.org.sa or by phone at: 0114884401
