Dubai to organise world’s largest virtual sign language class

Dubai is aiming to set a new Guinness World Record by holding the world's largest unified virtual sign language class on January 21.

The initiative seeks to strengthen social inclusion by integrate sign language into everyday interactions and improving access to services for people with hearing disabilities across government and private sector entities, while raising awareness on the importance of sign language and its vital role in empowering the deaf community. 

Organised by the Community Development Authority (CDA), the event is part of the ‘Dubai Communicates in Sign Language’ initiative that was launched last October by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination.

Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority in Dubai, said "the event is an open invitation to every member of our community to be a partner in advancing positive change". 

She added that through the initiative, "we are writing a new success story that inspires the world and reinforces Dubai’s position as a global model for inclusive and sustainable cities".

The authority encourages all members of society, including citizens and residents, to participate and contribute to breaking the world record, while at the same time enhancing community awareness of Emirati Sign Language and supporting the hearing-impaired community and People of Determination.

Participants from all around the world are also welcomed to join the event. 

Registration for the class is available at the ‘Dubai Communicates in Sign Language’ official website, with details on how to join the virtual lesson. 

In a landmark global initiative, Dubai’s Community Development Authority (CDA) announces the organisation of the world’s largest unified virtual sign language class on 21 January 2026. The unique event forms part of the Dubai Communicates in Sign Language initiative and aims to… pic.twitter.com/52oiMRdSIF

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 14, 2026