May Institute, Leading Autism Services Provider in U.S., Signs a Memorandum of Understanding with UAE-based Manazel Real Estate

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Dec 19, 2017, 11:42 ET

RANDOLPH, Mass., Dec. 19, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- May Institute, a national nonprofit organization that serves individuals across the lifespan with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other special needs, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Manazel Real Estate PJSC ("Manazel") to explore the need for and feasibility of developing and operating a school for children with ASD in the UAE. Manazel is a leading developer in the UAE.

The MoU reflects the shared goals of May Institute and Manazel to support children on the autism spectrum. May Institute will deliver due diligence services to Manazel to explore this project. This new venture is in line with Manazel's strategic initiative to diversify and expand into dynamic growth and niche markets capitalizing on a range of opportunities while also servicing part of a community through the provision of unique education and raising awareness.

Commenting on the new MoU, Dr. Lauren C. Solotar, President and CEO of May Institute, said, "We look forward to collaborating with Manazel on this assessment and are pleased to share our expertise with the UAE. May Institute and its National Autism Center respond to national and global demand for a broad range of needs and services, including the dissemination of best practices in applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment of autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities; training in applied behavior analysis; and the start-up and operation of schools and programs for autism both nationally and internationally."

She continued, "As the number of individuals diagnosed with autism increases across the globe, the need for effective, research-based interventions is more critical than ever. This potential project aligns with our strategic goal of expanding our reach to provide innovative ABA services to individuals with autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan."

Commenting on the new strategic partnership, H.E Manazel's Chairman Mohamed M. Al Qubaisi said, "I am delighted to announce this strategic alliance with May Institute, which reflects our constant search for opportunities that lead towards growth momentum and the company's commitment to its on-going expansion strategy to enter new growth and niche markets. We continue to work towards achieving the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 by taking sound steps and studying endeavors which deliver unique and creative real estate projects for the greater community."

He added, "In the pursuit of delivering optimal shareholder value, Manazel remains focused on pursuing opportunities that complements its overall business strategy while also fulfilling the UAE's efforts to support individuals with disabilities in order for them to be active members of society."

About May Institute
May Institute is a nonprofit organization that is a national leader in the field of applied behavior analysis, serving individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, brain injury and neurobehavioral disorders, and other special needs. Founded more than 60 years ago, we provide a wide range of exceptional educational and rehabilitative services across the lifespan. For more information, call 800.778.7601 or visit www.mayinstitute.org.

About Manazel
Manazel Real Estate (MRE) is one of the UAE's leading developers of quality homes for the country's middle income segment of the population. Manazel, with a paid-in-capital of AED 2.6 billion, is a Sharia complaint real estate company listed on Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) within the segment of Private Joint Stock Company. Through strategic investments spanning residential and commercial developments, Manazel has succeeded in striking a balance between creating thriving, sustainable communities while providing the highest returns for shareholders and investors. For further information please visit www.manazel-re.com.

SOURCE May Institute