200 visual art works by the people with disabilities attracted the attention of the visitors of the accompanying exhibition of the 'First UQU Special Education Forum' organized by Umm Al-Qura University, represented by the Department of Special Education, and the Saudi Association for Special Education “GESTER”. The forum was held during 7–8 Rabi` Al-Thani, 1441 A.H., in conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, at Millennium Makkah Al Naseem Hotel, with the participation of about 30 governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Umm Al-Qura University Vice President, Prof. Farid Al-Ghamdi, viewed the works of visual art crafted by persons with disabilities, the estimated market value of these works reaching SR. 100 thousand. He also visited the introductory corner of the Department of Special Education in the university, where he checked the services it provides for people with disabilities, including the preparation and qualification of educational cadres capable of serving this group of people, and the building of community partnerships through scientific research and disseminating knowledge in the community. He also visited the pavilions of other non-profit sectors.

In his speech during the opening ceremony, Prof. Farid Al-Ghamdi explained that paying attention to people with disabilities and their families comes within the top priority and concern of the wise leadership, which established centers and programs to provide these people with the proper services, and provided support through all means. The most notable of these establishments include: King Salman Center for Disability Research, and Prince Muhammad bin Salman's Programs for Autism and Developmental Disorders, in addition to special education departments in the Saudi universities and centers, as well as programs affiliated to the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Labor and Social Development.

He noted that UQU, represented by the Department of Special Education, organized this event by supervising and participating in presenting workshops, consultation and training for the families of people with disabilities and those interested in the field of special education, in cooperation with the relevant parties.