Starbucks Middle East and North Africa, part of Alshaya Group, and the Saut Down Syndrome Association (SAUT) announced the signing of a new partnership agreement aimed at creating innovative opportunities to enhance the quality of life for people with Down syndrome and their families. The agreement was signed during a ceremony held in the capital, Riyadh.
This partnership reflects Starbucks' ongoing commitment to nurturing human connections and supporting local communities, building on the Saut Down Syndrome Association's efforts to empower people with Down syndrome through education, early intervention, and awareness programs. By joining forces, the two organizations seek to create new opportunities for connection and support for people with Down syndrome and their families.
Her Royal Highness Princess Basma bint Badr bin Abdul Mohsen bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Vice Chairwoman of the Saut Down Syndrome Association's board of directors, said: "At the Saut Down Syndrome Association (SAUT), we believe every person with Down syndrome has the right to thrive, belong, and contribute to their community. Our partnership with Starbucks stands as living proof of the power of collaboration in advancing inclusion and creating a positive, tangible impact for families across the Kingdom."
For his part, Salah Alshaya, Head of Starbucks at Alshaya Group, said: "Through this partnership, we are committed to making a tangible impact in the lives of people with Down syndrome and their families. We seek to foster a society that recognizes and celebrates the abilities of every individual, in collaboration with the Saut association, and we aim to pave pathways for growth and understanding, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society."
The partnership is built on a shared vision centered on the role of simple everyday moments in strengthening the sense of belonging of people with Down syndrome within society. Starbucks and the Saut Down Syndrome Association are working to embed the principles of inclusion into everyday experiences — whether by providing welcoming spaces, implementing joint programs, or through active participation in the environments where individuals live and interact.
This collaboration aims to provide practical support to families and to build partnerships that respond to their needs.
It is worth noting that the Saut Down Syndrome Association holds the highest score in the strategy standard (Standards Pioneers) in the 2025 Nonprofit Organizations Excellence Award — King Khalid Foundation, confirming its excellence in strategic planning and maximizing social impact, in addition to the Princess Seetah bint Abdulaziz Award for Excellence in Social Work.
Source: Sabq Newspaper
