As the UAE joins global conversations around Autism Awareness Day, specialists are drawing attention to a long-standing gap in recognition: many women and girls on the autism spectrum are identified much later in life compared to men.

Autism spectrum condition affects individuals across all genders, yet traditional understanding and social expectations have often shaped how it is recognised. For years, common indicators were based largely on how autism appears in boys, making it more difficult to notice in females whose traits may present differently.

According to specialists, the delay in identification is not because autism is less common among women, but because it often shows up in more subtle or socially adapted ways. Many women develop coping mechanisms to blend into social environments, a pattern often described as “masking.” Over time, this effort to adapt can lead to confusion around their experiences, with some being labelled with other conditions linked to stress or emotional strain instead.

In many cases, awareness only comes later in life. Some women begin to recognise patterns during periods of exhaustion, when maintaining constant social adaptation becomes overwhelming. Others notice similarities while raising children, identifying behaviours in themselves that reflect what they observe at home. Specialists increasingly emphasise that neurodiversity represents a different way of experiencing the world, not a limitation.

Understanding the signs can play a key role in early recognition. While every individual is unique, certain patterns are commonly observed. These may include a strong focus on specific interests, difficulty maintaining long social interactions, heightened sensitivity to sound or light, and repetitive movements used for comfort or regulation. Because these behaviours can be misunderstood or overlooked, awareness remains essential.

Support, experts say, begins with acceptance. Listening without judgement and recognising different communication styles can make a meaningful difference. Creating environments where individuals feel understood reduces the pressure to constantly adapt and helps build confidence in daily life. Respecting personal boundaries and avoiding assumptions are also seen as important steps in fostering a more inclusive community.

Across the UAE, conversations around autism are gradually evolving. Educators, families and professionals are becoming more aware that it does not present in a single, uniform way. This shift is helping to improve early recognition and encourage more supportive environments where differences are acknowledged rather than overlooked.

As awareness continues to grow, the focus is moving beyond outdated stereotypes. By paying closer attention to lived experiences and embracing a broader understanding, communities can better support individuals on the spectrum while recognising the strengths they bring to everyday life.