On December 18, 2024, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in collaboration with the Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation, will host the annual celebration of World Arabic Language Day at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris. This event marks an important occasion to recognize and celebrate the global significance of the Arabic language, emphasizing its vital role as a tool for cultural exchange, intellectual dialogue, and civilizational connections between nations.
World Arabic Language Day is not only a celebration of the linguistic and literary heritage of Arabic but also a platform for exploring the future of the language in the digital age. The event will feature a series of dialogues, panel discussions, and workshops that delve into the challenges and opportunities for the Arabic language in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Key topics will include the integration of modern technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing the Arabic language, its preservation, and its expansion across various digital platforms. This reflects a growing global interest in leveraging technology to preserve and promote cultural languages, with a focus on how Arabic can benefit from innovations that increase its accessibility, global reach, and relevance in the modern world.
An assembly of international experts, linguists, academics, and researchers will come together to share their insights and research on the Arabic language's present and future. The event will offer an opportunity for these scholars to discuss the role of Arabic in a globalized world and to exchange ideas on how the language can be further integrated into technological advancements to ensure its continued influence and importance. With a particular focus on modern educational tools, digital media, and AI-driven language models, this World Arabic Language Day celebration underscores the commitment to preserving and promoting Arabic as an essential global language.
The partnership between UNESCO and the Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Foundation highlights the significant role that Saudi Arabia plays in fostering international dialogue on the Arabic language, supporting its development, and advocating for its cultural heritage on the global stage. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to ensure that Arabic continues to thrive as a language of knowledge, creativity, and communication across the world.