Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Diagnosis: A Parent’s Guide to Clearer Answers and Better Support

Around the world, more children are being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

While diagnosed cases of autism certainly exist, the true prevalence of autism in the GCC is still uncertain. Conflicting studies illuminate the need for greater awareness, stronger advocacy and improved diagnostic tools to support children and families.

The path to understanding a child’s development is rarely simple. It’s filled with questions, emotions and ongoing discoveries. If you’re on this journey, please know: you are not alone.

At The Brain & Performance Centre, a DP World company, we are here to walk beside you.

We believe the key to helping children thrive lies in understanding the “why” behind their behaviours. That begins with an accurate, thoughtful diagnosis—one that looks deeper to understand each child as a whole person.

As Dr Semer Wang, Medical Director at The Brain & Performance Centre, puts it:

“The journey may have its challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities, growth and incredible achievements. Discovering each child’s strengths and helping them shine is the greatest success we can achieve.”

We’ll explore what the numbers say about autism in the GCC and why getting an accurate AS diagnosis is so important in getting children the support they truly need. 

Autism in the GCC: A Closer Look at the Numbers—and the Need for Greater Awareness

The exact number of children with autism in the GCC is still unclear. Studies show varying rates. For instance:   

• In Bahrain, it may be “as low as 4.3 per 10,000 children.” 
• In Saudi Arabia, Oman and the UAE, it’s “between 20–29 per 10,000.”
• In Qatar and Kuwait, it’s “over 30” per 10,000. 
• In the UAE, autism makes up “12% of all disabilities.” Other autism statistics in the UAE indicate ASD impacts “1 in 146 births.”

These differences don’t always mean autism is more or less common in a particular country. In many cases, it may go undiagnosed due to diagnostic challenges, lack of awareness or the complexity of the spectrum (knowing when and how symptoms manifest). Therefore, we may not be seeing the full picture of autism in the GCC. 

And when autism is diagnosed, it’s important to ensure that the diagnosis is accurate.

When Autism Isn’t the Full Story

Early detection is incredibly important, but so is getting the diagnosis right. An incorrect diagnosis can impact every part of a family’s life, emotionally and financially, leading to: 

• Incorrect therapies: If your child is treated for the wrong condition, they may not improve or may fall further behind. 

• Parental stress: A clear, accurate diagnosis eliminates confusion, bringing clarity, confidence and peace of mind.

• Missed opportunities: The early years are critical for child development. The sooner the right issue is identified, the sooner your child can get the support that works best for them.

• Financial costs: Families in the UAE could spend thousands on private therapy each month, which can range “between Dh450 to Dh1,000 per hour.” Without the right diagnosis, that investment may not lead to meaningful results.

What Conditions Are Often Confused with Autism?

Autism is not a disease—it’s a collection of symptoms that can have different underlying causes.

In many cases, children diagnosed with autism may also have other medical conditions that contribute to or co-exist with their symptoms (comorbidities) and recognising them is essential for effective care.

Some of the conditions that may be present alongside autism or play a role in its development include:

• Post-concussion syndrome (PCS)
• Cerebral palsy 
• Post encephalopathy syndrome
• Some forms of epilepsy 

Identifying these contributing or co-occurring conditions is key to creating a personalised treatment plan.

In fact, some of the best candidates for interventions like hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) are children with autism who also have conditions such as cerebral palsy, post encephalopathy syndrome or a history of meningitis.

Understanding each child’s unique medical profile helps us support how they grow, learn and thrive, without trying to change who they are.

“No two children with autism are alike. Each child has a unique way of thinking and interacting with the world.” 

Understand the Factors that Affect Child Development>>

The Brain & Performance Centre Difference: A Deeper Look at the Whole Child

When symptoms overlap with other conditions, it takes more than a quick screening to truly understand what a child needs.

At The Brain & Performance Centre, we go beyond labels to ask a vital question: What is really causing this behaviour?

To answer that, we don’t rely on a single specialist or exam. Our clinic takes a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that combines expert insights with the latest technology.

Some children who are diagnosed with autism may actually have other or additional underlying medical conditions—conditions that are treatable but often missed.

This is especially important in cases of regressive autism, where a child loses skills they once had. In these situations, it’s vital to explore possible biological causes.

That’s why we always ask, “What is at the root of this?” before offering solutions. 

Our multidisciplinary medical team includes:

• Paediatricians
• Neuropsychologists
• Occupational therapists (OT)
• Physical therapists (PT)
• Speech and language therapists
• Dieticians

Each team member assesses different aspects of the child’s development and abilities, from a detailed medical history to a thorough neurological examination, cognitive testing, functional assessments, nutritional evaluation, tests for inflammation and DNA, advanced brain imaging and more. 

Each assessment is tailored to your child’s needs.

Together, this multidisciplinary team will assess all the testing data and come up with a plan to enable your child to be the best version of themselves. 

“A good assessment goes beyond surface-level observations and involves advanced diagnostic tools.”

Explore Our Advanced Autism Assessments>>

Our Diagnostic Tools Include

• Detailed medical evaluation to explore your child’s medical history and timeline of developmental milestones and a comprehensive neurological examination. 

• Cognitive and neuropsychological testing to look at social, communication, cognitive and behavioural performance and skills.

• Occupational therapy to evaluate any sensory perception abnormalities and everyday function.

• Physical therapy to evaluate functional movement and gait or balance difficulties.

• Nutritional evaluation, to make sure that all the macro and micronutrient building blocks are there for a healthy development. 

• Neuroimaging (MRI, SPECT) to detect brain abnormalities, such as:  inflammation, injury or irregular development.

• Laboratory and genetic testing to uncover causes for autism that are inherited or connected to metabolism and immunity.

• Metabolic and immune function panels to identify possible treatable medical issues.

“These assessments create a comprehensive profile of the child, helping to develop tailored therapeutic recommendations.”

All of this takes place under one roof, giving families peace of mind and consistent guidance throughout the process.

A Personalised, Guided Journey for Every Family

From your first consultation, you are partnered with a dedicated nurse navigator who guides your family step-by-step.

Our team spends time understanding your child’s developmental history, current concerns and daily challenges. We then customise the assessment process accordingly.

Our goal isn’t just to diagnose; it’s to empower you with clarity, direction and the best path forward.

Explore Our Complete Autism Assessment Process >>

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters for the Future

A proper diagnosis is more than just a name. It’s power. It’s the time when you can better understand your child and learn how you can create and nurture an environment that empowers them to thrive.

“Autism is not always just a limitation; it is a different way of experiencing the world. Children with autism possess exceptional talents and abilities that can be nurtured with the right support.”

With accurate information:

• Families make correct and confident decisions
• Children can have access to receive correct  therapies that  improve their independence and increase their confidence 
• Underlying medical causes can be identified and  treated
• Progress becomes more measurable and outcomes more predictable
• Having the correct diagnosis, even if today there are limited therapy options, advances in medicine are rapid, causes that are untreatable today may have specific interventions in a few years in the future. Knowledge is power. 

“The goal is not to change the child, but to create an environment that empowers them to thrive.”

A Message to Parents: We’re Here to Support You

Seeking a diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it is also a powerful, hopeful step.

At The Brain & Performance Centre, we walk this journey with you. Our assessments are not just clinical; they are compassionate, careful and rooted in partnership.

Let us help you find clarity, confidence and the right support for your child. We believe in going beyond the label to uncover the full picture.

“The journey may have its challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities, growth and incredible achievements.”

Final Thoughts: It All Starts with Understanding

Autism is a complex condition and it can look different in every child. But not every child who struggles with speech, focus or social skills has autism. That’s why we believe in going beyond the label to uncover the full picture.

Through early and accurate diagnosis, targeted support and a holistic approach, every child can be given the opportunity to grow, learn and shine.

We’re here to help you begin that journey with compassion, clarity and care.

Book Your Consultation Today >>