New York, December 14, 2024 – The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language has successfully concluded its celebration of World Arabic Language Day 2024, along with a special exhibition that garnered attention from dignitaries and diplomats. The event, held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, was organized in collaboration with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations. This year’s celebration was framed around the theme, “Arabic Language and Artificial Intelligence: Fostering Innovation While Preserving Cultural Heritage”, underscoring the intersection of modern technological advancement and the preservation of linguistic and cultural heritage.
The event, which was sponsored by Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Academy's Board of Trustees, built upon Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in securing the inclusion of Arabic as one of the official languages of the United Nations. This year’s activities celebrated the historical significance of the UN General Assembly's 1973 resolution, which officially recognized Arabic as both an official and working language of the UN. December 18th, the date of the resolution’s adoption, was thereafter designated by the UN Department of Global Communications as World Arabic Language Day.
This year’s program included a series of specialized activities and events designed to highlight the rich history, culture, and evolution of the Arabic language. Through interactive workshops, panels, and discussions, the event aimed to increase global awareness of the Arabic language's role in shaping global communication and its continued relevance in an era dominated by digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
A key feature of the event was the accompanying exhibition, which attracted a large number of visitors, including diplomats, permanent representatives, and members of various UN missions. The exhibition provided a comprehensive look at the Academy’s extensive work to promote the Arabic language and culture on a global scale. It showcased the Academy's various publications, research initiatives, and projects aimed at enhancing the presence of Arabic in international institutions. The exhibition also highlighted the increasing role of Arabic in global discourse, including its influence on linguistic borrowing and the use of the Arabic language within the UN itself.
This marks the fourth consecutive year that the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language has spearheaded the celebration of World Arabic Language Day, further cementing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to promoting Arabic as a central element of global dialogue and understanding. The event not only commemorated the historic strides made in the language’s recognition but also emphasized the ongoing efforts to ensure that Arabic remains a dynamic and vital part of the global cultural and technological landscape.
Through initiatives like these, the King Salman Academy continues to play a crucial role in enhancing the presence of Arabic in international organizations and fostering a deeper appreciation of its cultural and intellectual legacy. The celebration also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving linguistic heritage while embracing the opportunities brought about by innovation and technology.