Los Angeles, CA – June 1^st, 2017: We Rock the Spectrum, an international children’s gym franchise, announces its expansion into Dubai and Saudi Arabia.

A little less than two and a half years ago, a mother from California decided to franchise her business that was designed to provide an inclusive play area for children of all abilities. When Dina Kimmel’s son, Gabriel, was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, she personally saw the lack of places available that she could take Gabriel and his neurotypical sister, Sophia. This led her to create a gym that features sensory-safe play equipment and welcomes all kids, no matter their ability. Today, there are more than 69 locations across the world, including the first international location, which opened in Malaysia in December of 2016.

“We Rock the Spectrum aims to be a leader in inclusion worldwide. After meeting Dr. Nashila Jaffer, the master franchisee for Dubai and Saudi Arabia, we recognized she shared the same beliefs and knew that she would be the best person to establish our brand and its mission in the UAE. She is passionate and determined to improve the lives of children and their families in her community.”

Dr. Nashila Jaffer is a chiropractor who discovered the indoor play gym during a trip to the United States. After working with children with special needs at her practice in Dubai, she saw the gym and immediately knew she needed to bring it back to her community. Shortly after, Dr. Jaffer signed on to be the master franchisee for the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. She plans to open her first location in Dubai in the Fall of 2017.

“I was inspired by the whole idea and framework behind We Rock the Spectrum. I loved how everything was designed to be inclusive, from the play equipment they offered to the arts and crafts and even classes,” Dr. Jaffer said. “I am passionate about raising awareness and educating parents on the importance of movement for all kids to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.”

The opening of this gym comes at a time when Dubai is seeing an increase in autism diagnoses and a decrease in available resources. In 2001, the Dubai Autism Center was founded to accommodate just 44 people. In 2012, they had a waitlist of close to 200 people (gulfnews.com). Dr Zeinab Alloub, a Consultant Neurodevelopmental Pediatrician at Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, estimates that 1 in every 100 children in Dubai has autism. Now Dr. Jaffer believes, more than ever, that Dubai needs a place like We Rock the Spectrum — a place where “Finally You Never Have to Say I’m Sorry!”

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About We Rock the Spectrum: Founded in 2010, We Rock the Spectrum is an international franchise opportunity that provides sensory-safe play for kids of all abilities. Each franchise location features ten pieces of uniquely designed therapeutic equipment that promote learning, development, and sensory-safe play. Learn more about the We Rock the Spectrum franchise, its specialized equipment, and the various services it offers by visiting its corporate website https://www.wrtsfranchise.com/.