PREVALENCE OF DISABILITY IN OMAN: STATISTICS AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

People with disabilities are among the most vulnerable groups all over the world. They have limited access to education, services, and employment. People with disabilities represent about 2.3% of the Omani population and the number is increasing. The research work was divided into three parts. The first part was a descriptive/interpretive analysis aiming to provide an outline of the current and relevant literature with regard disability statistics and challenges worldwide. The second part aims to examine the state of disability and its demographics in Oman. The paper analyzes government legislations, major cause of disabilities, and the current initiatives of the Omani government to remedy the problems faced by disabled people in the country. Finally, the paper concludes with a set of recommendations suggesting ways to enhance the services provided for this group of population to integrate them in the society. The major findings of this study, despite the government effort in this regard, people with disabilities face a number of challenges as they lack basic services necessary to improve the quality of life and there is no updated statistics on the state of disability in Oman. This study will provide the foundations that might help the government and non-government organizations, disability researchers, and health professionals in devising a strategy for the integration of the disabled into Omani society.