Zain Group is taking significant strides in fostering a more inclusive digital future with the launch of three pivotal initiatives designed to empower people with disabilities. These efforts, unveiled to coincide with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd, directly advance the company’s ambitious “WE ABLE 2030” vision. This vision isn’t simply a statement of intent; it’s a commitment to embedding disability inclusion as a fundamental pillar of Zain’s operations and a key differentiator in the competitive landscape of the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region.
A Core Business Strategy: WE ABLE 2030 & ‘4WARD’
Zain understands that true innovation thrives when diverse perspectives are welcomed and integrated. This understanding powers “4WARD – Progress with Purpose,” the group’s overarching strategy, and elevates disability inclusion beyond corporate social responsibility into a critical business imperative. The WE ABLE 2030 vision aims to ensure individuals with disabilities aren’t just accommodated but actively involved as co-creators of the technologies and experiences shaping tomorrow.
This comprehensive approach centers on four key areas: inclusive hiring and retention, accessible products and services, global recognition for advocacy, and establishing clear pathways for career advancement and leadership for persons with disabilities. These latest initiatives are designed to move the company from broad commitments to tangible, systemic change.
Three Initiatives Driving Real Change in Disability Inclusion
These three interconnected programs represent a concerted effort to reshape how Zain operates – from its procurement practices to its internal talent development and community engagement. They are a powerful demonstration of turning vision into action, impacting the entire Zain ecosystem.
Strategic Partnership with Business Disability Forum (BDF)
Zain has become the first telecom operator in the MENA region to forge a strategic partnership with the Business Disability Forum (BDF), a globally recognized organization dedicated to disability inclusion in business. This collaboration aims to embed accessibility criteria throughout Zain’s procurement processes.
This means suppliers will be evaluated not only on cost and quality but also on their commitment to providing accessible products and services. Integrating accessibility at the source ensures that the technologies and solutions Zain utilizes are inherently inclusive. Furthermore, the partnership unlocks access to BDF’s extensive network of over 600 organizations, fostering knowledge sharing and best practice adoption.
Empowering Future Leaders: The GROW Program
Recognizing the importance of building a pipeline of talent, Zain is opening applications for a new cohort of its GROW program, specifically tailored for graduates with disabilities. Interested candidates can apply via zain.com/en/grow.
This three-month program combines specialized training with a structured internship experience at Zain locations across four of its operating companies. The goal is to provide equitable access to high-quality learning and practical work exposure, breaking down barriers to employment and offering a strong launchpad for careers in the technology and communications sector. Investment in inclusive hiring practices like GROW demonstrates Zain’s long-term commitment.
Personalized Development for Existing Employees
Zain is also focusing on nurturing the talent it already has. The company is rolling out Personalized Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for all employees with disabilities. These aren’t generic plans, but rather are built on detailed understanding of each individual’s aspirations and support needs.
Each IDP is informed by a comprehensive 34-question internal survey designed to gather crucial insights and tailor development opportunities accordingly. This will help to reinforce career progression paths and empower employees to achieve their full potential.
Building Momentum: Achievements & Recognition
These new initiatives build upon Zain’s existing efforts and have already garnered external recognition. The company’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in the publication of two case studies by PurpleSpace and Be My Eyes, highlighting Zain’s impactful work in driving positive regional change.
Internally, Zain has delivered over 20 disability etiquette sessions to hundreds of employees, led by colleagues with disabilities, fostering a more understanding and inclusive workplace culture. Employees actively volunteering on the Be My Eyes platform have completed over 1,500 successful calls in 2025, further demonstrating practical support and engagement. Accessibility is becoming a core competency within the organization.
Setting a New Regional Standard
Bader Al-Kharafi, Zain Vice Chairman and Group CEO, emphasized that these initiatives represent a deliberate reshaping of the company’s approach. His comments highlight the strategic nature of the changes, moving beyond mere compliance to a fundamental shift in how decisions are made across the value chain.
By prioritizing disability inclusion and aligning its efforts with the ‘4WARD – Progress with Purpose’ strategy, Zain aspires to set a new benchmark for the region. The company envisions a future where accessibility isn’t an afterthought but a catalyst for innovation, value creation, and truly inclusive growth. This transformation ultimately embodies Zain’s purpose: “Better Lives, Lasting Connections.”
To learn more about the GROW program and application details, visit zain.com/en/grow and join Zain in building a more accessible and inclusive digital world.
