The BARAKA study (Building A National Resource for the Advancement of Knowledge of Autism in Qatar) is the first and largest autism research initiative in the Middle East. It invites families to participate in pioneering research that is shaping the future of autism care across the region. Since 2018, Sidra Medicine has partnered with the Hospital for Sick Children in Canada and the Autism Speaks MSSNG Whole Genome Sequencing Project to investigate the genomic and environmental factors influencing autism within Qatar’s population.

“Baraka,” meaning “blessing” in Arabic, reflects the belief that children with autism are a blessing. The study seeks to ensure that children on the autism spectrum receive personalized treatment, care, and support grounded in scientific understanding of their unique needs.

The initiative is building a nationally significant autism research resource aligned with international standards. By creating an open platform for ongoing collaboration and discovery, it supports future research by the global scientific community and advances knowledge that benefits individuals with autism both locally and worldwide.