NYU Abu Dhabi Introduces AI-Driven Sign Language Translation Tool

New York University Abu Dhabi has rolled out ChatSign, an innovative AI-powered platform aimed at enhancing communication effectiveness for individuals with hearing impairments. This groundbreaking technology facilitates instantaneous translation from spoken language into sign language, addressing the communication challenges faced by Deaf, Hard-of-Hearing, and hearing individuals alike.

The creation of ChatSign is attributed to Yi Fang, Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Director of the Embodied AI & Robotics Lab at NYU Abu Dhabi. Along with CEO Zhifei Maggie Li and Chief Product Officer Zhenhua Li, he co-founded the startup.

Currently, the AI solution can translate spoken Arabic and English into both American Sign Language and Emirati Sign Language in real time, focusing on enhancing accessibility in various public and private settings. The team is also developing advanced capabilities, including sign-to-speech and text-to-sign technologies.

Fabio Piano, NYU Abu Dhabi's Interim Vice Chancellor, stated that ChatSign embodies the university's mission to transform research and innovation into tangible societal benefits.

Targeted for use across diverse sectors such as government, healthcare, education, tourism, transportation, and commerce, the platform is designed to tackle the ongoing issue of limited availability of sign language interpreters, which tends to be both cost-prohibitive and sporadically accessible.

Yi Fang, one of the founders, expressed the vision to normalize sign language accessibility, making it as commonplace as smartphone communication. He emphasized that the technology is structured to facilitate inclusive communication on a large scale.

Since its inception as a research initiative in 2024, ChatSign has swiftly evolved into a commercially viable prototype. Its technology is secured with patents and was effectively trialed during a live deployment in late 2025, providing real-time sign language interpretation to over 200 students during an event focused on accessibility.

Further, the AI platform is expected to be utilized at NYU Abu Dhabi’s 2026 Commencement Ceremony for live speech-to-sign translation, enhancing accessibility for attendees.

ChatSign has been featured at significant events, including Make it in the Emirates, Dubai AI Week, and AccessAbilities Expo. Additionally, it reached the semi-finals of the GITEX Expand North Star competition.

Co-founder Maggie Li noted the emphasis on creating a rapid, simple, and practical system capable of functioning effectively in real-world settings. The company aspires to deploy ChatSign devices globally within a decade to improve communication accessibility for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals.

Currently, the team is collaborating with partners for data collection, technology validation, and pilot initiatives across various sectors. ChatSign aims to extend its deployments throughout the UAE before transitioning to international expansion in the coming years.