The Ministry of Social Development and Family (MSDF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI) and Qatar Tourism, launched the second edition of the "Purple Saturday" initiative. The annual event, held on the last Saturday of July, aims to empower persons with disabilities and elevate the quality of services provided to them.

The initiative seeks to foster public-private cooperation through the participation of entities offering exclusive benefits from July 25 to August 1, 2026. Holders of the initiative’s digital card, accessible via MSDF’s digital platform, can benefit from these offerings across participating outlets.

Purple Saturday forms part of joint GCC efforts to advance the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities. First launched in Saudi Arabia in 2021 before expanding across the GCC, the initiative reflects a unified regional commitment to fostering inclusivity, equal opportunity, and dignity.

HE Maha Hamad Al Attiya, Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs at MSDF, stated that the initiative underscores Qatar’s commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and building a more inclusive society. She noted that the campaign raises public awareness, fosters shared responsibility, and expands public-private partnerships, creating a supportive environment aligned with Qatar's vision for empowerment.

Al Attiya added that the campaign aligns with MSDF’s strategy, "From Care to Empowerment," by supporting independence, encouraging accessible environments, and promoting sustainable development goals.

For her part, Reem Al Ajmi, Director of Community Care at MSDF, highlighted that the initiative expands community partnerships to improve quality of life and presence in daily life, serving as a model for public-private collaboration.

Hassan bin Sultan Al Ghanim, Assistant Undersecretary for Consumer Affairs at MOCI, affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting Purple Saturday 2026. He noted that MOCI facilitated commercial participation to expand benefits, calling on businesses to continue supporting the initiative's humanitarian and social objectives.

Ahmed Al Binali, Director of Festivals and Events at Visit Qatar, expressed pride in supporting the initiative for the second consecutive year. He highlighted that Qatar Tourism collaborated with hotels, retail outlets, and tourism facilities to offer tailored services and enhanced accessibility. He added that the Qatar Toy Festival notably offered free admission to persons with disabilities throughout its duration.

MSDF reiterated its commitment to continuing qualitative initiatives under its "From Care to Empowerment" strategy, upholding principles of inclusion and equal opportunity to advance the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.