Dubai Autism Center hosts gala fundraising dinner

The event was also an occasion to recognise a recent AED 100,000 contribution to the charity made by luxury goods company Bally International. The CEO of Bally, Marco Franchini, flew from Italy specifically to attend the high-profile charity dinner.

Dr. Omar bin Sulaiman, Vice Chairman of the DAC and Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre, added: "Just as we are inspired by the generous vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, so, too, are we inspired by the courageous children of the Dubai Autism Center. Here in Dubai, we believe in a shared, bright future, which is why the DIFC is proud to offer its support to the DAC and its many initiatives."

The highlight of the evening was an auction of paintings created by students at the DAC, which was hosted by Bally CEO Marco Franchini. All funds raised during the event will be used to benefit this local charity.

Franchini, who heads the 150-year-old luxury goods firm best known for its quality footwear, pointed out that his company had longstanding ties to the region and to Dubai in particular. "Bally's donation to the Dubai Autism Center is an expression of our heartfelt goodwill towards the emirate and especially its youth," Franchini said. "We are very pleased to help aid the DAC as it works to fully integrate those with special needs into the heart of this vibrant and multicultural society."

The DAC, a non-profit organisation founded in 2001, depends on fundraising to provide for the needs of children with autism, which is a common developmental disorder that can lead to deficiencies in social interaction and communication. Catering to children between the ages of two and 16 through a variety of programs, the DAC provides education and therapy in a nurturing environment.