Muscat – The Ministry of Social Development will launch an initiative on Purple Saturday being observed this year on July 25 under the slogan ‘A Day with a Lasting Impact’, reinforcing national efforts to promote accessibility, inclusion and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The initiative calls on public and private sector institutions, including commercial, service and tourism establishments, to adopt inclusive practices and improve accessibility, enabling persons with disabilities to participate more fully in economic and social life.

Marked annually on the last Saturday of July, Purple Saturday is a Gulf-wide initiative aimed at raising awareness of the rights of persons with disabilities and encouraging organisations to provide services that are more accessible and responsive to diverse needs.

First introduced across the Gulf in 2021, Purple Saturday reflects a shared regional commitment to empowering persons with disabilities, enhancing their quality of life and promoting the principles of equality, dignity and social inclusion.

Adnan bin Mustafa Al Farsi, Acting Director General in the ministry, said the initiative aims to raise public awareness of the importance of creating accessible and inclusive environments while encouraging institutions to adopt practices that remove barriers for persons with disabilities.

He said Purple Saturday also highlights the private sector’s role as a strategic partner in sustainable social development by strengthening corporate social responsibility and fostering a culture of inclusion across all sectors.

Al Farsi added that Purple Saturday provides a platform for cooperation between government entities, private sector organisations and civil society institutions to expand programmes and services for persons with disabilities and enhance their participation in community life.

He noted that the colour purple symbolises dignity, respect, appreciation and solidarity with persons with disabilities, reflecting the day’s message of promoting inclusion and encouraging all sections of society to help create a more accessible and supportive environment.