Autistic professionals excel at work through creativity and resilience

Thirty-three-year-old Emirati Jawaher Abdulla has become a powerful voice for autism advocacy in the UAE. Diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at the age of 30, her journey is one of self-discovery, resilience and an unwavering commitment to helping others understand the often-misunderstood world of neurodiversity.

- Zenifer Khaleel

"I was diagnosed late," Jawaher told Khaleej Times. "Growing up, I always sensed I was different, but I didn't have the language or support to understand why. When I was finally diagnosed, everything started to make sense — my sensitivities, my way of thinking, my exhaustion in certain social settings. It was like finding the missing piece of a puzzle."

Her first professional role as a cultural guide revealed how well her natural inclinations could align with meaningful work. "I really enjoyed that job. I was excellent at it," she said with pride, adding: "I'm practical and introverted at work, and I thrive when I can focus on delivering quality."