Work

A proposed AI application for enhancing the quality of life of people with disabilities in Saudi Arabia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) holds significant potential to enhance the quality of life (QoL) for individuals with disabilities by improving access to healthcare, promoting social participation, and supporting independence. In Saudi Arabia, however, there is a gap in inclusive AI models tailored to local needs, particularly in addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing essential services. AIMS: This article proposes an AI-supported application tailored to improve key QoL dimensions such as healthcare accessibility, social inclusion, and autonomy for people with disabilities in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A qualitative design was employed, involving 25 semi-structured interviews: 10 experts from medicine, rehabilitation, sociology, and AI and 15 individuals with visual, motor, or mild cognitive disabilities. Participants were recruited through rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and disability associations in Al-Ahsa using official approvals and direct outreach via email, WhatsApp, and personal meetings. Thematic analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke's framework. RESULTS: The proposed AI application supports three key service areas: (1) social services (personalized chatbots, accessibility tools, and AI-driven job matching); (2) health services (telehealth monitoring and genetic-based treatment planning); (3) collaboration with ministries and AI authorities. Sustainability is addressed through measures such as free access, institutional support, and ongoing government involvement. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents a context-specific, actionable AI framework to inform policy and innovation for disability inclusion in Saudi Arabia. By emphasizing local needs, stakeholder collaboration, and user-centered adaptive design, it contributes to closing the service gap for people with disabilities and offers a scalable model for inclusive digital transformation.

Source: Research in Developmental Disabilities

DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2025.105137

Authors: Nahedh S. Aloudah, Manal S. Alshehri, Anwar R. Alhamad

Institutions: King Saud University, Ministry of Health

Language: English

Topic: Assistive Technology in Communication and Mobility

Subfield: Occupational Therapy

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,040