Sharjah is designated to host the 18th World Congress of Inclusion International from September 15 to 17, 2025, under the patronage of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

This congress marks the inaugural occasion that the event will be held in the Middle East and North Africa, featuring the theme "We are Inclusion."

The World Congress is recognized as a significant international assembly advocating for the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.

It is organized by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in partnership with Inclusion International, with logistical and media support from the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB).

The event will take place at the Expo Centre Sharjah, with registration currently open until June 16, where discounted rates are available via the official website.

Approximately 850 participants are expected, including self-advocates, family members, professionals, and representatives from more than 115 local, regional, and international organizations, spanning regions from the Middle East to Europe, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific.

The congress addresses the complexities associated with intellectual disabilities, often characterized by challenges in learning, communication, and independent living.

The event aims to empower individuals to advocate for themselves and play a role in decision-making regarding their lives.

Since its establishment in 1963, the World Congress has worked to protect the rights of those with intellectual disabilities, emphasizing self-advocacy and the development of supportive policies and environments.

Sharjah was selected as the host city due to its inclusive, accessible environment, strategic location, and modern infrastructure that accommodates the needs of people with disabilities.

This recognition also highlights the role of SCHS, a longstanding member of Inclusion International, in advocating for the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director General of SCHS, expressed pride in Sharjah’s role in hosting this global event for the first time in the MENA region, underscoring the emirate’s commitment to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

She noted that the congress aligns with Sharjah’s vision to foster communities where individuals with disabilities have a meaningful voice in decision-making processes.

Sharjah has been designated as an “Accessible City for the Physically Disabled” and is recognized for its advanced infrastructure and inclusive public spaces.

The emirate supports a rights-based approach, facilitating access to education, employment, healthcare, and advocacy for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

The inclusive infrastructure adheres to high accessibility standards within public services.

The three-day congress will focus on crucial subjects such as inclusive education, community support, employment opportunities, humanitarian services, healthcare access, deinstitutionalization, legal decision-making, social protection, self-advocacy, and capacity building for organizations in the disability sector.

Notable thought leaders, government representatives, policy experts, and advocates will contribute to discussions, providing a strategic platform for actionable recommendations on global inclusion efforts.

The World Congress convenes every four years, uniting self-advocates, families, and professionals to exchange insights, successes, and challenges, thereby reinforcing the global inclusion movement.

As part of its proactive approach, SCHS extends invitations to governments, institutions, educators, healthcare providers, and social organizations to engage in building environments promoting dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all.