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Neuroinclusion is increasingly recognised as an important driver of economic productivity, innovation, and social development. Drawing on discussions from the 1st International Neurodiversity Conference held in the United Arab Emirates, this policy report examines the economic and social benefits of supporting neurodivergent individuals and enabling their meaningful participation in education, employment, and society. It highlights the importance of shifting from viewing neuroinclusion primarily as a social responsibility or accommodation cost towards recognising it as a strategic investment in human capital, national competitiveness, and long-term economic sustainability.

The report explores the economic costs of exclusion, including reduced workforce participation, underemployment, increased demand for healthcare and social support, and the wider consequences of unmet needs across education and justice systems. It identifies key barriers to neuroinclusion, such as inflexible recruitment practices, limited organisational awareness, workplace stigma, and unequal access to early assessment and support services. Focusing on the UAE, the report highlights opportunities to build on existing People of Determination policies and institutional capabilities to strengthen inclusive employment, improve access to services, and promote greater coordination between government, businesses, and civil society.

The report presents a comprehensive set of policy recommendations to advance neuroinclusion through coordinated national action. These include establishing a national neuroinclusion task force, strengthening early assessment and educational support, developing accessible recruitment and workplace practices, expanding professional training, improving data collection, and introducing incentives for neuroinclusive employers. It also proposes a phased implementation approach supported by measurable outcomes and the active participation of neurodivergent individuals in policy design and evaluation. Together, these recommendations provide a framework for advancing a more inclusive, productive, and competitive economy in the UAE, with lessons for the wider region.