Abu Dhabi to host World Deaf Congress

In a landmark moment for the Middle East and the global Deaf communities, Abu Dhabi has unveiled the official logo for the 'XX World's Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf 2027', marking the beginning of preparations for this prestigious event to be held in the Arab region for the first time.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The logo - revealed at the conclusion of the 5th World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) Conference in Nairobi, Kenya – celebrates a remarkable regional victory, with the winning design created by Husam Mohammad Elfara, a deaf designer from the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

Scheduled for 19 to 23 September 2027, the Congress will bring over 2,000 participants from all over the world to Abu Dhabi to celebrate the richness of national sign languages, foster cross-border collaborations, and empower deaf communities worldwide.

Organized by the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO) in partnership with the UAE Deaf Association, this edition will be held under the theme “Sign Languages: Always and Everywhere,” emphasizing the universal role of sign language in connecting communities and advancing equality.

The logo emerged from a global design competition that attracted 41 entries from 14 countries, including strong participation from the Middle East — Palestine (11), UAE (8), Jordan (6), Sudan (3), Bahrain (2), Lebanon (2), and Yemen (2) — alongside submissions from Saudi Arabia, Oman, Morocco, India, Iran, the USA, and Pakistan. After rigorous review, 19 designs were shortlisted, underscoring the dynamic creativity and global engagement of deaf communities worldwide.