CDA Launches ‘Dubai Communicates in Sign Language’ Pledge, Strengthening Inclusivity for People of Determination
Dubai has taken a significant step towards inclusivity and accessibility with the launch of the ‘Dubai Communicates in Sign Language’ pledge. This initiative, approved by the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination, is under the supervision of the Community Development Authority (CDA) and coincides with Arab Deaf Week. The pledge aims to affirm Emirati Sign Language as an independent language with cultural and linguistic significance.
The initiative unites various government entities and is recognized as a pioneering effort to establish inclusive communication as a fundamental right. This move further solidifies Dubai’s reputation as a global leader in creating accessible urban environments. It is the first initiative of its kind in the UAE, emphasizing the importance of empowering People of Determination through a comprehensive ecosystem that ensures equitable access to information and services.
Framework for Inclusive Communication
The pledge serves as a foundational framework for regulatory structures and institutional practices, acknowledging Emirati Sign Language’s unique cultural and linguistic value. It promotes inclusive communication, safeguards human dignity, and enhances institutional accountability. This framework supports the effective implementation of relevant legislation aimed at protecting the rights of People of Determination.
Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the CDA, stated that the pledge marks a strategic milestone in Dubai’s journey toward becoming a globally recognized model for accessibility and inclusion. She emphasized that the initiative reflects the leadership’s vision for a more inclusive and sustainable society.
The pledge is designed to enhance the readiness of government entities to provide inclusive services through innovation and efficiency. It integrates roles across various sectors, transforming strategic directions into effective practices that positively impact the quality of life for all residents.
Service and Community Commitments
The pledge outlines a comprehensive set of commitments across key sectors. Government entities are tasked with ensuring the availability of sign language and accessible communication methods in their services. This includes providing interpretation in priority interactions, developing inclusive digital platforms, and training frontline staff. Additionally, People of Determination will be involved in the design and development of services, with clear mechanisms established for requesting qualified sign language interpreters.
In the healthcare sector, the pledge guarantees sign language interpretation throughout all stages of diagnosis, treatment, and emergency response. This ensures that individuals fully understand medical procedures before giving consent. The initiative also includes training for healthcare professionals, the provision of accessible visual materials, and regular reviews of communication quality.
In education, the pledge ensures that sign language is available at all educational stages, from enrollment to assessment. It supports inclusive learning environments through appropriate accommodations and staff training. Furthermore, it promotes the development of specialized academic programs in interpretation and bilingual education, while encouraging student participation in educational framework development.
In the security, employment, and transport sectors, the pledge focuses on equitable access to information and services. This includes providing interpretation in reports and emergency communications, training security personnel, and fostering inclusive work environments. The initiative also integrates sign language interpreter roles within institutional structures and ensures that transport facilities provide visual screens and guidance for safety and information access.
Impactful and Sustainable Partnerships
Multiple government entities are participating in the pledge, including the CDA, Dubai Health, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), Dubai Government Human Resources Department, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Sports Council, and Dubai Club for People of Determination.
This collective effort reflects a unified strategic approach and strong institutional integration, reinforcing government initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable impact through efficiency and innovation. The ‘Dubai Communicates in Sign Language’ pledge further strengthens the CDA’s role in leading the empowerment ecosystem for People of Determination. It focuses on developing forward-looking policies and services that enhance inclusion, independence, and equal opportunities, thereby solidifying Dubai’s status as a global city committed to accessibility and social cohesion.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-04-27 22:37:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk