The city of Sharjah hosted more than 120 institutions and organizations during the 18th edition of the Global Conference 2025 titled “We Are Inclusion,” from September 15 to 17. The event aimed to discuss national and international legal frameworks that form the basis for integrating individuals with intellectual disabilities, highlighting key agreements such as the “United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)” and “Federal Law No. 29 of 2006” in the UAE. The agenda was packed with topics and issues aimed at promoting the inclusion of this demographic in society. Self-advocates with intellectual disabilities shared their experiences, voiced their understanding of their rights, and collaborated to support one another, with over 95 self-advocates directly discussing the changes they wish to see in laws and policies during the conference.
The emphasis on discussing legal and legislative frameworks is particularly significant at this conference, coinciding with a time of profound economic, social, and technological transformations worldwide that directly impact the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Holding this legal discussion in Sharjah showcases the emirate’s pioneering experience in inclusion and empowerment, establishing it as a credible platform for experts and international organizations to propose recommendations with regional and global influence.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) serves as the major international reference for the conference. It asserts that disability results from societal and environmental barriers rather than individual attributes. The convention is grounded in principles of dignity, non-discrimination, equal opportunities, active participation, accessibility, gender equality, and respect for children’s rights. It obliges state parties to enact legislation, eliminate discriminatory practices, and involve individuals with disabilities in shaping policies and programs that affect them.
On a national level, Federal Law No. 29 of 2006 is a cornerstone of protecting the rights of people with disabilities in the UAE. The law ensures equality and non-discrimination, grants the right to inclusive education, access to employment in both public and private sectors, as well as free health and rehabilitation services. It also mandates the provision of supportive exemptions and accessibility to various facilities.