Zayed Authority for People of Determination (ZAPoD) has announced the hosting of the World Conference of the World Association of Sign Language Interpreters (WASLI). The conference marks the first time the global event to be held in the Arab region.
The event aims to showcase efforts in implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as well as its commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conference also provides sign language interpreters and other stakeholders with an opportunity to learn about the UAE’s progressive approach toward the deaf community and the interpreters who serve them.
The WASLI conference brings together sign language interpreters, sign language interpretation educators, and stakeholders from government and civil society to discuss developments in interpreter education, training, research, and the delivery of professional services. It also presents a valuable networking opportunity for local interpreters to connect with their counterparts from across the region and around the world.
ZAPoD, in collaboration with WASLI and its regional office, has also signed an agreement to launch a specialised diploma programme in sign language interpretation, a pioneering step toward enhancing communication and inclusion for the deaf and hard of hearing across the Arab World. The programme sets a new benchmark for professional training in the region and has been officially accredited by the UAE’s National Qualifications Centre under the title: Level 4 Diploma in Sign Language Interpretation.
The diploma aims to qualify national professionals in both simultaneous and written sign language interpretation, covering both Arabic and international sign languages. It is designed to raise the standard of services for the deaf and hard of hearing across government and private sectors, including education, healthcare, justice, media, and public services. The programme features a curriculum developed according to the highest international professional standards. It includes advanced cognitive and practical skills, accredited field training, and a strong emphasis on ethical and professional standards to ensure accuracy and efficiency in interpretation.
His Excellency Abdulla Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of ZAPoD, said: "We are proud that Abu Dhabi is hosting the WASLI World Conference for the first time in the Arab region. This global platform allows for the exchange of expertise and discussion on the future of this vital profession, further positioning the UAE as a leader in inclusion and sustainability. The launch and accreditation of the diploma program marks a new qualitative milestone in the UAE’s journey to build an integrated educational and professional system that enhances the participation of People of Determination in society.
“These initiatives reflect the international community’s confidence in the UAE’s ability to innovate educational and professional solutions that make a tangible impact. They also highlight Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub for dialogue and cooperation in the field of inclusion.
“We look forward to this achievement serving as a catalyst for more pioneering initiatives that improve quality of life and promote the values of equality and empowerment. At ZAPoD, we firmly believe that investing in professionals specialising in hearing disabilities is an investment in a more inclusive and just future—one where people are at the center of sustainable development. We are confident that this collaboration will contribute to building a more connected and equitable society, and reflect the UAE’s humanitarian mission to empower People of Determination and provide them with equal opportunities to participate in and contribute to the nation’s development."
The hosting of the conference and the launch of the accreditation of the diploma programme aim to support the sustainability of inclusive services and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global leader in inclusive community empowerment. The event will also provide a platform to discuss challenges and opportunities facing sign language interpreters, while facilitating the exchange of expertise with international institutions. Moreover, it offers an opportunity to bring together governments, NGOs, and the local community to unify efforts in advocating for Deaf rights and equal opportunities.
WASLI currently consists of nine global regions: Africa, the Arab Region, Asia, the Balkans, Eastern Europe–Central Asia and the Caucasus, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, North America, and Oceania. The conference offers opportunities not only for regional engagement but also for cross-regional collaboration. Regional dialogue allows interpreters and their associations to meet and discuss issues specific to their regions and beyond.
