Sharjah To Host Inclusion International's World Congress Focused On Intellectual Disabilities In 2025

The emirate of Sharjah will host the 18th World Congress of Inclusion International from 15th to 17th September 2025. This event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, marks its first occurrence in the Middle East and North Africa, focusing on the theme "We are Inclusion." It is a significant gathering for advocating the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.

Organised by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in partnership with Inclusion International, and supported by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), this congress will take place at Expo Centre Sharjah. The event is expected to attract approximately 850 participants, including self-advocates, family members, professionals, and representatives from over 115 countries across five global regions: the Middle East, Europe, Africa, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific.

The congress aims to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities to advocate for themselves and participate in decision-making processes affecting their lives. Since its inception in 1963, this event has amplified their voices, promoted self-advocacy, and advanced policies that create supportive environments. The upcoming edition seeks to continue this legacy by challenging barriers related to learning, communication, and independent living.

Sharjah was chosen as the host city due to its inclusive environment and strategic location. The emirate's advanced infrastructure caters to people with disabilities. The selection also acknowledges SCHS's role as a leading advocate for disability rights. Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi stated that hosting this global event reflects Sharjah’s commitment to improving lives of those with intellectual disabilities.

Sheikha Jameela highlighted that the World Congress embodies Sharjah’s vision of building communities where people with intellectual disabilities have a voice in shaping policies. She emphasised that inclusion is a practical reality in Sharjah through active involvement and collective responsibility across society. The emirate has been named an "Accessible City for the Physically Disabled" due to its developed infrastructure and inclusive public spaces.

Sheikha Jameela noted that Sharjah’s rights-based approach empowers people with intellectual disabilities by supporting access to education, employment, healthcare, and decision-making. The emirate's infrastructure meets high accessibility standards across public services. She added that the congress provides a platform for exchanging experiences and working towards a more inclusive future.

Key Topics and Global Participation

The three-day event will cover critical topics such as inclusive education, community support, employment opportunities, healthcare access, legal decision-making, social protection, self-advocacy, and capacity building for organisations in the disability sector. Thought leaders from around the world will contribute to shaping actionable recommendations promoting global inclusion.

Held every four years, the World Congress unites self-advocates, families, and professionals to share ideas and challenges. This collaboration reinforces the global identity of the inclusion movement. SCHS invites governments and organisations to participate in creating environments where dignity and equal opportunity are upheld for all individuals.

With inputs from WAM