Dubai has introduced a landmark commitment to deaf and hard-of-hearing residents with the formal adoption of the Dubai Sign Language Pledge for Deafness and Hearing Impairment, approved by the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination and supervised by the Community Development Authority (CDA). The pledge is the first of its kind in the UAE.
Launched to coincide with Arab Deaf Week, the pledge brings together ten government entities in a unified framework designed to embed inclusive communication across Dubai's public services. Participating bodies include Dubai Health Authority, the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Police, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority, and Dubai Municipality, among others.
At its core, the pledge recognises Emirati Sign Language as an independent language with cultural and linguistic value. It sets out executive commitments across government, healthcare, education, security, employment, and transport — covering everything from sign language interpretation during medical consultations and emergency response to accessible digital channels and inclusive hiring practices.
CDA Director-General Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid described the pledge as a strategic milestone, stating that it translates institutional commitment into tangible impact for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals across all service touchpoints.
The initiative aligns with Dubai's Social Agenda 33 and the emirate's broader Strategy for People of Determination, reinforcing Dubai's positioning as a global model for accessible and inclusive city living.
Among its practical measures, the pledge establishes a central registry for certified sign language interpreters, introduces bilingual education models, and mandates sign language support across all stages of healthcare — from diagnosis through to informed consent.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
