alwakaai: Royal Jordanian Airlines and Zain Jordan signed a strategic cooperation agreement — the first of its kind in the region — under which Zain will equip several facilities at Queen Alia International Airport with tablets featuring instant sign language translation service, in cooperation with 'Merge”, a company specialized in developing technological solutions for the integration and empowerment of people with disabilities.

This collaboration aims to enable travelers with hearing disabilities to communicate with airport staff and Royal Jordanian services, thereby facilitating travel procedures and enhancing their independence.

The agreement was signed by Royal Jordanian Vice Chairman/CEO Eng. Samer Majali, and Zain Jordan CEO Fahad AlJasem, in the presence of officials from both parties. During the signing ceremony, the new service mechanism was showcased and tested on the tablets, in preparation for its application across Queen Alia International Airport facilities. Eng. Samer Majali affirmed Royal Jordanian’s commitment, as part of its corporate social responsibility and sustainable programs, to supporting and empowering persons with disabilities, and to ensuring inclusive and safe travel services for them—particularly for passengers with hearing impairments. He emphasized that guaranteeing the right of persons with disabilities to access and obtain air transport services is a priority, noting that the partnership with Zain reaffirms the airline’s role in bolstering national joint efforts to promote inclusive tourism and make Jordan an accessible destination for all.

For his part, Zain Jordan CEO Fahad AlJasem stated that this collaboration reflects Zain’s commitment to its pioneering role in providing innovative and inclusive digital solutions that address the needs of all segments of society. He highlighted the company’s dedication to leveraging technology to serve different groups, as part of its corporate social responsibility and sustainability initiatives that aim to enhance the integration of people with disabilities into all aspects of life, providing them with the necessary tools and technologies to ensure their independence and facilitate their communication. He added that this step builds on Zain’s ongoing efforts in this field, which began years ago by offering instant sign language translation for its hearing-impaired subscribers in all Zain shops, in addition to its dedicated 'Basma+” line for the deaf community, offering video calls and various benefits, along with direct communication with Zain’s deaf customer service team via the Zain mobile app.

The new service will be available in several Royal Jordanian passenger touchpoints within the airport facilities, including the departure hall, sales office, southern transit office, baggage services office, Crown Lounge, and the first-class office.

The tablets will operate through Zain’s internet network at Queen Alia International Airport, ensuring high-speed connectivity and top-quality service, while the instant translation will be managed via the 'Merge” platform, which provides real-time 24/7 response—facilitating seamless communication between travelers and airport/Royal Jordanian staff throughout their journey.