While Arabic is among the most-spoken languages in the world, it often does not receive the attention its venerability, influence, and popularity warrant.
But since 2012, the language receives the global attention it warrants thanks to International Arabic Language Day, a linguistic celebration established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). It’s well-earned recognition for a tongue spoken by 450 million people that has advanced arts, culture, and science and carries a rich historic legacy.
“Since its adoption as an official language of the United Nations in 1973, Arabic has continued to serve as a bridge across civilizations and cultures,” UNESCO representatives said for the 2024 event. “Its profound contributions—spanning fields as diverse as philosophy, architecture, poetry, music, and science—reflect its role as a catalyst for knowledge and creativity.”
International Arabic Language Day is an opportunity draw attention toward the beauty of the Arabic language, which transcends cultures and borders, as well as the unfulfilled work to properly serve the language on the global stage. For instance, the United Nations observed for the 2024 event that only 3% of online content is available in Arabic. It creates complications when training AI models in the Arabic language, and that’s why the international body emphasized Arabic AI as the central theme of the 2024 observance.
“This event gathers top scholars, industry experts, and cultural leaders to explore how AI can bridge this digital gap, enhancing Arabic representation online and fostering both innovation and heritage preservation,” the United Nations posted in advance of the 2024 celebration. “This year the event starts with opening remarks from distinguished speakers, leading into sessions on Arabic AI innovation, cultural and linguistic preservation, and digital empowerment.”
As UNESCO observed in its own statement, the explosion of AI technologies is an opportunity for Arabic-speaking countries, which have oriented themselves in an ambitious economic development agenda around developing a competitive and uniquely Arabic technology sector. While the lack of available training materials for large language models creates complications, technologists are making fast progress thanks to international partnerships and strong governmental support.
“This year, under [our chosen theme,] we reflect on the evolving role of Arabic in a rapidly changing digital landscape,” UNESCO representatives stated. “While artificial intelligence and technological advancements offer opportunities to expand Arabic’s global presence, they also highlight the need to safeguard the language’s authenticity and heritage for future generations.”
The 2024 celebration also debuted the Arab Divas Exhibition, housed at The Hangar Ras El Ain in Amman, Jordan. A tribute to the artists who defined the Golden Era of Arab music and cinema — artists like Oum Kalthoum, Fayrouz, and Dalida. A period spanning the 1920s to the 1960s, the era produced movies and music that continue to inspire Arabic artists today. Their contributions to modern Arabic culture were commemorated in the exhibition, which ran until Feb. 20 and celebrated the Arabic language’s capacity to unite peoples around the universal human experience.
“As we stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation, we reaffirm our shared commitment to preserving and promoting the Arabic language and its cultural expressions,” UNESCO representatives said. “By honoring its timeless beauty and embracing its future in the digital age, we ensure that Arabic continues to thrive — uniting hearts, minds, and generations across the globe.”