Al Ain to Host Global Deaf Youth Camp Ahead of 2027 World Congress
The UAE will welcome more than 2,000 deaf youth from around the world for the 9th World Federation of the Deaf Youth Camp in September 2027, marking a significant milestone in international deaf leadership development and cultural exchange.
The 9th World Federation of the Deaf Youth Camp will convene in Al Ain Region from 9 to 15 September 2027, drawing deaf youth aged 18 to 30 from across the globe for a week of cultural enrichment, leadership development and international networking. The event precedes the XX World’s Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf 2027, which will welcome over 2,000 participants to the UAE.
A Platform for Emerging Leaders
Held once every four years alongside the World’s Congress, the Youth Camp represents one of the most significant international gatherings dedicated to deaf youth. The initiative provides an essential platform for emerging leaders to exchange ideas, celebrate cultural diversity, strengthen their sense of identity, and forge meaningful relationships that transcend linguistic and geographic boundaries.
The camp is organised jointly by the World Federation of the Deaf Youth Section, the UAE Deaf Association, and the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, aligning with the overarching congress theme: Sign Languages: Always and Everywhere. This thematic focus underscores the vital role of sign languages in connecting communities, strengthening deaf identity, and advancing inclusion on a global scale.
Al Ain’s Rich Cultural Heritage as Backdrop
Al Ain Region, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known as the UAE’s Garden City, will provide a distinctive setting for the gathering. Beyond formal programming, participants will engage in cultural activities, workshops, discussion sessions and sightseeing tours that celebrate the region’s vibrant heritage. The itinerary encompasses interactive experiences showcasing the area’s natural and historical landmarks whilst offering opportunities to experience Emirati traditions and hospitality.
Symbolic Logo Reflects Deaf Identity
The official Youth Camp logo was developed through a participatory design process involving deaf youth themselves. Emphasising visual communication, the emblem incorporates Al Ain Region’s iconic natural and cultural landmarks—Jebel Hafeet, Al Jahili Fort, the oasis landscape, the historic Falaj irrigation system, and the gazelle. Each element was carefully selected to represent shared values: strength, resilience, cultural pride, sustainability, growth and connection, creating a visual narrative that symbolises the cultural exchange, friendship and shared identity uniting deaf youth worldwide.
Vision for Global Leadership
Nisrin Al Harmoodi, Advisor at the Zayed Authority for People of Determination and Member of the Higher Organising Committee of the XX World’s Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf 2027, stated: “The 9th World Federation of the Deaf Youth Camp is more than an international gathering; it is a genuine investment in the next generation of Deaf leaders who will help shape the future of our communities worldwide. Hosting this event in Al Ain Region provides a unique opportunity to demonstrate the UAE’s steadfast commitment to empowerment, inclusion, and the advancement of sign languages.”
Rashid Al Mansoori, Director of the Deaf Youth Camp in Al Ain Region, added: “What makes the Youth Camp truly special is that it creates a space where deaf young people can be seen, heard, and empowered through their own languages and cultures. We want participants to leave with the confidence to become leaders in their communities, champion greater accessibility, and inspire others to step forward.”
The event reinforces the UAE’s position as a global leader in promoting empowerment and inclusion whilst creating unprecedented opportunities for deaf youth to participate actively in international dialogue and contribute to shaping the future of sign languages and deaf culture worldwide.
Source: Abu Dhabi Media Office