In celebration of World Arabic Language Day, observed annually on 18 December, the General Secretariat of the Supreme Legislation Committee in the Emirate of Dubai (SLC) organised a cultural seminar entitled “Arabic Coffee”, aimed at highlighting the intrinsic connection between the Arabic language and various aspects of societal life, as well as its role within the UAE’s legislative ecosystem.
Held in coordination with the Community Development Authority and with the participation of several government entities in Dubai, the seminar drew broad community participation.
Presented by Mr. Salem Ibrahim Al Ahmad, Linguistic Adviser and Head of the Research and Publications Section at the SLC, the seminar underscored the SLC’s steadfast commitment to reinforcing and preserving the Arabic language as a fundamental pillar of national identity. Discussions during the seminar addressed a range of key themes, including the relationship between the Arabic language and national identity; the role of the Arabic language in legislative discourse; the significance of World Arabic Language Day; the UAE’s national efforts to promote the Arabic language; and the dynamic interplay between Classical Arabic and colloquial dialects.
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E. Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar Al Muhairi, SLC Secretary General, stated: “World Arabic Language Day is a global occasion to honour our noble language, to celebrate its historic depth and civilisational legacy, and to highlight its vital contribution to scientific, intellectual, and cultural advancement. This day serves as an opportunity to express our deep pride in the Arabic language, as a foundational component of our historical, cultural, and civilisational identity, and to recognise its remarkable contributions to the development of human civilisation.”
H.E. added: “Guided by the forward-looking vision of our wise leadership, the UAE continues to play a pivotal role in empowering the Arabic language, strengthening its presence, and enhancing its position as a language of knowledge, thought, and civilisation. The UAE continues to demonstrate the adaptability of the Arabic language in the face of rapid change, owing to its rich vocabulary and inherent flexibility. As Arabic remains central to legislative drafting, the SLC is committed to actively supporting and promoting the language through specialised awareness workshops and community initiatives that enhance the status of our mother tongue. We are equally committed to upholding linguistic precision and integrity in all aspects of our work, emphasising clarity and fluency in legislative drafting. On this occasion, we reaffirm our dedication to supporting national efforts and endeavours aimed at preserving the Arabic language and celebrating its uniqueness and authenticity.”
This cultural seminar reflects the SLC’s commitment to its broader strategic plan to foster a legislative ecosystem rooted in knowledge and national identity, in alignment with the objectives of “Dubai Social Agenda 33”, particularly with a focus on preserving national identity, enhancing community engagement, and fostering cultural vitality. Additionally, the event supports the goals of the “Year of the Community” and the “Year of the Family”, by promoting the Arabic language as a vital tool for fostering communication and constructive dialogue within families and society, while reinforcing a shared sense of belonging through the preservation of one of the most defining elements of national identity.
By engaging diverse segments of society in this awareness-raising event, the SLC reaffirmed its commitment to social responsibility, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to enhance the presence of Arabic in public life and reinforce its intellectual and cultural role in connecting past heritage with future aspirations.