Over 60 cafés in the UAE are supporting World MS Day. Here's how you can get involved
Over 60 of the UAE’s coffee shops have partnered with the National MS Society in a united effort to raise awareness about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for World MS Day.
With 38 of these cafes located in Abu Dhabi, you can visit and improve your understanding of MS as well as show solidarity with people living with MS.
From 30 May to 2 June, the participating cafés will serve beverages in specially branded cups, in addition to displaying QR codes that link to informative resources and personal stories of people living with MS.
The full list of participating cafés is available [here].
By simply enjoying a cup of coffee, you can contribute to a national movement of awareness and solidarity, demonstrating the power of collective action.
This is the second year that the UAE is participating in global World MS Day celebrations. This community activation is one of many initiatives introduced by the National MS Society, as it marks the countdown to this year’s World MS Day.
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic, unpredictable condition of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information between the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms vary greatly from person to person and can include movement and coordination issues, visual disturbances, and fatigue. In the UAE, around 19 in every 100,000 people are affected by MS, with the condition commonly beginning in young adults around the age of 26. Women are twice as likely as men to develop MS and make up 67% of people diagnosed with MS in the UAE, highlighting the importance of targeted awareness and support efforts.
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for improving long-term health and well-being. Despite the challenges, ongoing research continues to seek more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Living with MS
Up to 84% of people living with MS experience cognitive changes, fatigue, and walking difficulties. Visual disturbances are also common. These symptoms can disrupt everyday tasks and impact quality of life, emphasizing the need for public awareness and support.
How can you support?
Share your experiences on social media using the hashtags # #WorldMSDay, #MSSocietyUAE, and by tagging @nmssocietyuae.
Visit www.nationalmssociety.ae to discover the many ways you can contribute to the MS community in the UAE, or make a direct contribution through the Authority of Social Contribution - Ma'an platform.
