Sharjah to Host Global Congress on Inclusion 2025: A Historic First for MENA Region

Sharjah to Host the World Congress for Inclusion 2025

In a remarkable milestone for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the emirate of Sharjah will host the prestigious World Congress on Inclusion, marking the first time such an influential event has been held in this area. Scheduled to take place from September 15 to September 17, 2025, the Congress will assemble representatives from more than 115 countries under the compelling theme "We are Inclusion."

Organized by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in cooperation with Inclusion International, this crucial gathering is expected to draw significant participation from global leaders, government officials, policy experts, and advocates dedicated to promoting the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. This year's Congress, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, is recognized as one of the most vital global forums dedicated to advocating for inclusive practices worldwide.

Sheikh Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Director General of SCHS, expressed pride in hosting this transformative event for the MENA region. "Our hosting of the Congress reflects Sharjah's commitment to fostering environments where individuals with intellectual disabilities can have a real voice and meaningful influence in shaping policies and decisions that affect their lives," she stated.

The agenda for the three-day event will address pivotal issues related to inclusive education, community and family support, employment opportunities, humanitarian services, healthcare accessibility, deinstitutionalization efforts, legal decision-making, social protection, self-advocacy, and capacity building for organizations that serve the disability sector.

With an anticipated 850 participants, including professionals, local and international organization representatives, families, and self-advocates from around the world, the Congress is set to become a strategic platform for discussing and developing public policies focused on inclusion.

According to Sue Swenson, President of Inclusion International, the significance of the Congress cannot be overstated. "This global event is pivotal as it brings together self-advocates, families, and organizations to drive the conversation on what inclusion truly means in real life—showing through their actions that we are inclusion," she emphasized.

Early bird registration is currently open, offering discounted rates through the official website at inclusion.eventsair.com/world-congress. A comprehensive press release and visual materials are available via an associated link.

This historical Congress reflects a greater movement towards inclusion on a global scale, paving the way for future advancements in the rights and treatment of individuals with disabilities. As Sharjah steps into the limelight, it sets a precedent for other cities and regions, demonstrating that inclusion is not just a goal, but a necessary foundation for every society.

Join this landmark occasion to experience the intersection of advocacy, empowerment, and the celebration of human potential, where every voice is valued and every story matters.