Abu Dhabi - Zayed Higher Organization for Humanitarian Care and Special Needs, ZHO, announced that it will launch the 'Emirati Sign Language Dictionary'.
The project, being prepared by eight entities is aimed at standardising the signs used by deaf people in UAE, and compiling them in one reference book to unify the sign langauage across UAE.
The dictionary will ensure the continuity and development of the sign language, and improve the educational level of its users, Zayed Higher Organization Secretary General, Abdullah Al Humaidan explained.
"This work will give a great push for the care provided for the People of Determination, particularly those with hearing difficulties, across the country," he added.
The dictionary, will include around 5000 words, and will be used for teaching people with hearing impairment as well as training sign language translators.
As per the schedule of the project, 1254 words will be compiled during the second stage, to be completed during this month, and 1254 words this July and finally 1238 words by the end of this year.
The Cabinet has adopted the Emirati Sign Language Dictionary, which is the first UAE-language reference dictionary for the UAE dialect, and a unified reference language people with hearing disabilities in the UAE.
The Emirati Sign Language Dictionary is in line with UAE Vision 2021 and the National Agenda in maintaining a cohesive society and promoting an inclusive environment that integrates all segments of society while preserving the UAE's unique culture and heritage.
The guide will facilitate the exchange of knowledge between the members of society and those with hearing disabilities and harmony among them, and promote the linguistic identity of the Deaf community in the country and increase their pride in their homeland and their own language, derived from the local dialect.
