Photo Credit : WAM
New York University Abu Dhabi has launched ChatSign, a commercially ready artificial intelligence-powered platform designed to transform real-time communication for sign language users across the UAE and beyond.
The new system translates spoken Arabic and English into sign language instantly, supporting both American Sign Language and Emirati Sign Language. Developers said work is also progressing on advanced features that will enable sign-to-speech and text-to-sign translation for practical day-to-day use.
ChatSign has been developed to improve accessibility in sectors where communication barriers remain a challenge, including government services, healthcare, education, tourism, transport hubs, and commercial spaces. The platform aims to reduce reliance on interpreters, whose availability is often limited and costly.
Fabio Piano, Interim Vice Chancellor of New York University Abu Dhabi, described ChatSign as a major milestone for the university’s innovation ecosystem and its growing role in commercial AI development.
He said the platform reflects the university’s broader mission of turning research and scientific discovery into practical ventures that address real societal challenges, while also strengthening the connection between research, entrepreneurship, and education.
The AI-powered system has already been showcased at several major regional events, including Make it in the Emirates, Dubai AI Week, and AccessAbilities Expo. ChatSign also reached the semi-finals of the GITEX Expand North Star global startup competition.
The launch comes as the UAE continues to expand investments in artificial intelligence, digital accessibility, and inclusive technologies aimed at supporting people of determination and enhancing smart government services.
