ABSTRACT
This chapter describes an exploratory study aimed at investigating the state of sign language interpreting and interpreters in Arab region countries. The research explores if there are required qualifications or criteria for sign language interpreters to work. The research was conducted in 19 out of the 22 Arab speaking countries. A total of 148 sign language interpreters (all members of the Arab Organisation for Sign Language Interpreters—Selaa) were surveyed. The research showed that the majority of sign language interpreters have between three to ten years’ experience but have little to no formal training. Additionally, there are similarities in the different dialects of Arab region sign languages due to geographical proximity. Furthermore, the number of sign language interpreters in the region’s countries is insufficient compared to the number of deaf people to meet their sign language interpreting needs. we recommend that Selaa and other deaf organisations cooperate and produce some standard practice guidelines and offer proper training and education to sign language interpreters in Arab region countries.
