World Congress 2025 “We Are Inclusion” in Sharjah

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the World Congress 2025, titled “We Are Inclusion”, officially begins on Monday at Expo Centre Sharjah. The congress is organized by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services in cooperation with Inclusion International. The event is held in strategic partnership with the Sharjah Government Media Bureau and aims to focus on inclusion and empowerment of people with intellectual disabilities on a global scale.

This year's congress promises to be one of the most important and largest gatherings dedicated to advancing inclusion worldwide. It will take place from September 15 to 17, featuring 59 discussion panels, 152 speakers, 134 self-advocates, 125 organizations, and over 500 participants from 74 countries. These numbers underline the global importance and diversity of the event, showing Sharjah’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural cooperation.

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Wide International Participation

The World Congress 2025 brings together people from all around the world, highlighting its truly international reach. The Middle East has the highest number of delegates with 151 participants, followed by Africa with 112, Asia with 93, Europe with 66, and the Americas with 56.

At the national level, the UAE leads the list with 112 participants, demonstrating the country’s strong focus on humanitarian initiatives. Other countries with notable representation include Mauritius with 48 delegates, Japan with 33, Canada with 23, Egypt with 19, South Korea with 13, Kuwait and the United States with 12 each, and the United Kingdom with 11.

To ensure smooth communication and meaningful dialogue, simultaneous interpretation is provided in four languages: Arabic, English, French, and Spanish. This helps all participants understand and actively engage in the discussions, ensuring inclusivity in communication.

Side Activities and Summits

Apart from the main sessions, the congress offers several side activities to make the experience more engaging and human-centered.

• The Family Summit began on Sunday at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, providing a platform for families of self-advocates to share their experiences and learn from experts.

• The Self-Advocates Summit, held at the Pullman Hotel, runs alongside the Family Summit, allowing self-advocates to lead discussions, express their ideas, and contribute to the global agenda on inclusion.

The congress will conclude on Thursday, September 18, with the General Assembly meetings of Inclusion International, held at both the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Pullman Hotel. These meetings aim to create a roadmap for the future of inclusion worldwide.

To promote meaningful participation, the congress uses “traffic light cards”, a communication tool recognized internationally. These cards help participants express their views clearly and make sure discussions remain accessible to everyone, including those with intellectual disabilities.

Showcasing Emirati Heritage

As the host city, Sharjah has included a special Emirati Heritage Day in the congress program. This day is organized in collaboration with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Al Bataeh Municipality, and the Sharjah Maritime Museum.

Participants will have the opportunity to experience the UAE’s rich traditions and cultural identity, including:

• Authentic Emirati hospitality

• Local crafts and traditional cuisine

• Handicraft and maritime workshops

• Artistic performances and historic ship displays

This initiative not only highlights the cultural heritage of the UAE but also fosters cultural exchange among participants from around the world. It gives delegates a chance to connect with Emirati history and traditions while enjoying a hands-on, immersive experience.

New Initiatives, Books, and Wellness Programs

The congress also introduces several new initiatives to empower children, families, and communities. Among these:

• The signing of a memorandum of understanding with the University of Al Dhaid, aimed at promoting research and education in inclusion practices.

• The launch of a new book exploring strategies for empowering families and communities during stressful and challenging times.

In addition, the congress offers participants a range of wellness and cultural activities, including:

• Film screenings and exhibitions

• Yoga sessions and wellness programs specifically for self-advocates and their families

• Opportunities for physical activity, relaxation, and informal meetings

These activities show that inclusion is not only about theory but also about practical empowerment, mental wellbeing, and cultural engagement. The holistic approach ensures participants leave the congress feeling inspired, informed, and rejuvenated.

Evening Tours and Relaxation Areas

To complement the daytime sessions, the congress organizes evening tours to some of Sharjah’s most famous cultural and historical sites, including:

• Heart of Sharjah

• Sharjah Maritime Museum

• Sharjah Aquarium

• Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation

• Rain Room

• Souq Al Arsah

These tours offer participants a chance to explore the city’s history, culture, and architecture in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Additionally, the venue provides designated relaxation areas where self-advocates can rest, socialize, or have informal discussions in a calm and welcoming environment.

Importance of the World Congress 2025

The World Congress 2025 is more than just a conference; it is a global platform for dialogue, advocacy, and empowerment. By bringing together self-advocates, experts, families, and organizations from all over the world, the event highlights the importance of listening, respect, and meaningful inclusion.

The congress also serves as a model for other countries and cities, showing how inclusion can be integrated into education, cultural activities, public life, and community programs. It emphasizes that true empowerment goes beyond words and policies—it requires practical actions, collaboration, and cultural understanding.

By showcasing Emirati heritage, engaging participants in wellness programs, and promoting international cooperation, Sharjah sets a strong example for global leadership in inclusion. The congress ensures that people with intellectual disabilities are not only heard but also actively involved in shaping policies and practices that affect their lives.

The World Congress 2025 “We Are Inclusion” is a landmark event that brings together global voices to focus on empowerment, inclusion, and human rights. From September 15 to 17, Sharjah will host delegates from 74 countries, offering a unique blend of discussion panels, summits, cultural experiences, wellness activities, and evening tours.

With the support of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and the active participation of self-advocates, organizations, and experts, the congress promises to leave a lasting impact on the international agenda for inclusion. It highlights that inclusion is not just a goal—it is a shared responsibility that requires commitment, respect, and action from everyone.

Sharjah, with its rich heritage, cultural vibrancy, and focus on humanity, stands as a global hub for inclusion and empowerment, making the World Congress 2025 a truly unforgettable and meaningful event for all participants.