UAE develops AI-powered multilingual sign language translator
The application helps people with hearing impairments communicate, study, and work by removing language barriers
-
![]()
Photo source: fizkes / iStock
Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has obtained a patent for an application that translates sign language into text and back using artificial intelligence (AI). The development enables people with hearing impairments from different countries to communicate in real time. This was reported by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), a partner of TV BRICS.
The programme converts gestures into written words and transforms typed text into animated sign language. It also provides real-time two-way translation between sign language and spoken speech, enabling effective interaction in classrooms, educational programmes, and workplaces. The application supports multilingual translation of sign language across different signing systems.
The main goal is to give people with hearing impairments the opportunity to receive a full education and realise their potential in a professional environment. The application aligns with the national policy of the UAE’s National Policy for Empowering People of Determination, which aims to reduce inequality and enhance digital literacy.
The platform was created by Modafar Ati, Associate Professor from the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology at ADU in collaboration with a graduate of the university’s Bachelor’s programme in Information Technology. The university has previously launched inclusivity support programmes in partnership with several specialised organisations. The development forms part of the university’s strategy through to 2027, which places emphasis on accessibility and social change within the academic environment.
-
![]()
Technology21.09.26India’s semiconductor programme supports 200 chip design companies and trains 70,000 engineers -
![]()
Technology21.09.26Vietnam becomes Southeast Asia’s largest electric-car market as EV share reaches nearly 40% -
![]()
Technology21.09.26South African graduate develops AI system to translate sign language into speech -
![]()
Technology19.09.26Chile to develop system for forecasting extreme weather events -
![]()
Technology19.09.26Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to develop cross-border QR payments -
![]()
Technology19.09.26China unveils AI systems to transform mineral exploration
-
![Ashok Mondal]()
Ashok MondalNID Director"Signing this Memorandum of Understanding between the National Institute of Design (NID) and TV BRICS marks a pivotal milestone in advancing design diplomacy across the BRICS media space. This moment is especially significant as India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit, following India’s assumption of the BRICS chairship under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The partnership directly embodies his call to elevate Indian design standards through 'Design in India, Design for the World'. Through the global reach and broadcast capabilities of TV BRICS, we are excited to showcase the extraordinary visual storytelling, films, and design research of NID’s Film and Video Communication students to an international audience, while also welcoming and screening film works from BRICS network countries at NID Ahmedabad. This reciprocal exchange strengthens our shared commitment to educational, cultural, and artistic collaboration, fostering sustainable connections among global creative communities. NID Ahmedabad looks forward to leveraging this partnership to deepen cross-cultural dialogue, build international expert networks, and unlock transformative opportunities for filmmakers, researchers, and faculty across member nations" -
![Vladimir Putin]()
Vladimir PutinPresident of Russia"We are developing mutual trade, which is growing; it increased by over 12 per cent last year. We have a joint commission working in this sphere. Our focus is on agriculture, shipbuilding, information technology and energy, including nuclear power. We have signed a free trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and Indonesia. Jakarta is our reliable and old friend within ASEAN. We are working together at all international platforms, including the UN" -
![Joao Paulo Capobianco]()
Joao Paulo CapobiancoBrazilian Minister of the Environment and Climate Change"The BRICS countries have a very high level of responsibility because they share an important part of the world's biodiversity, landscapes, populations, food production and water resources. So, we have an opportunity to lead by example. We have our development bank, which can demonstrate and develop new ways of financing programmes. We can reduce the risks for private capital to invest in restoration and efforts to combat desertification" -
![Dilma Rousseff]()
Dilma RousseffPresident of the New Development Bank"India’s BRICS Presidency this year gives special significance to our discussion. NDB stands ready to be a trusted partner in turning commitments on sustainability, clean energy, smart and resilient infrastructure into concrete results on the ground. […] For NDB, mobilising private capital is a strategic imperative. Created by the BRICS founding members, NDB is a bank of the Global South, for the Global South, mandated to mobilise resources for infrastructure and sustainable development" -
![Sihasak Phuangketkeow]()
Sihasak PhuangketkeowDeputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand"BRICS can play a very important role in maintaining the free flow of trade and investment. The group can also be a vehicle for all of us to engage and to look at economic opportunities"
