Latest news with #ClassicalArabic
Ya Biladi
24-04-2025
- General
- Ya Biladi
Darija dominates, French leads professionally, and English attracts young Moroccans in 2024
Estimated read time: 2' A recent survey conducted by the Moroccan research firm Sunergia offers a comprehensive look at the linguistic landscape of Morocco in 2024. The findings highlight the dominance of Darija, the widespread use of French, the institutional role of Classical Arabic, and the growing presence of English among youngsters, all shaped by social, economic, and technological dynamics. Published in April 2024, the survey is based on responses from 1,019 participants, collected between September 2023 and early 2024. It primarily focuses on language proficiency and the contexts in which different languages are spoken. In 2024, Darija remains predominant in Morocco, spoken fluently by 100% of respondents and considered the mother tongue by 94%. It is the most commonly used in both personal (94%) and professional (69%) speech, as well as in writing for personal (69%) and professional (39%) exchanges. Classical Arabic is spoken fluently by 29% of Moroccans, with a higher presence among younger individuals (34%), urban dwellers (37%), and higher social classes (44%). Despite its limited use in personal communication (2% in speech and 9% in writing) and professional settings (8% in speech, 10% in writing), Classical Arabic retains a crucial role in education, administration, and the media. Amazigh is spoken fluently by 25% of the respondents, with 21% considering it their mother tongue, especially in the south (39%). It is more commonly used in personal conversations (19%) than in written (8%) or professional contexts (less than 8%). French continues to dominate professional settings Though not an official language, French remains widely spoken, with 19% of Moroccans fluent in it. Usage varies by age and social class, peaking among those under 34 (24%) and those aged 55-64 (18%). The language is mostly prevalent in professional communication, especially in writing (32%) and speech (31%), often surpassing Darija in written exchanges. Usage is also significantly higher among wealthier social classes (43%) compared to lower social classes (6%). English is spoken fluently by 9% of Moroccans, with significant concentrations among younger people (17%), urban residents (12%), and higher social classes (22%). While its use in personal exchanges remains limited (3% in speech, 4% in writing), English is increasingly present in professional settings (7% in both speech and writing). Spanish and German remain marginal, each spoken fluently by only 1% of the population. Their use is negligible in both personal and professional contexts. Strong multilingual trend The survey reveals a strong multilingual trend among Moroccans. Forty-five percent are monolingual, speaking only Darija. Thirty-four percent are bilingual, with the most common combinations being Darija + Amazigh (48%), Darija + Classical Arabic (37%), and Darija + French (12%). The Darija + Amazigh profile is more common among those aged 35-54, rural residents, southerners, and lower social classes. The Darija + Classical Arabic profile is typical of those over 65, urban dwellers, and wealthier individuals. The Darija + French combination dominates among those aged 55-64, people from central Morocco, urban residents, and higher social classes. Fourteen percent are trilingual, with the most common combinations being Darija + Classical Arabic + French (42%), Darija + Amazigh + Classical Arabic (27%), and Darija + French + English (21%). The Darija/Classical Arabic/French profile is most common among those over 55, urban residents, and wealthier social classes. The Darija/French/English trio is prevalent among young people aged 18-24. Finally, 7% of Moroccans are polyglots, speaking four or more languages. This phenomenon is more frequent among young people aged 25-34 (11%), urban dwellers (9%), and higher social classes (20%).
Hi Dubai
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Hi Dubai
UAE Experts Support Dialect Ban for Non-Emiratis to Help Children Use Proper Language
In a landmark move, the UAE government has implemented a new media policy restricting the use of the Emirati dialect in media to citizens only — a decision experts say is critical to preserving the nation's linguistic and cultural identity. Rooted deeply in Classical Arabic, the Emirati dialect reflects the country's diverse heritage, shaped by tribes from coasts, mountains, and deserts. Experts have long stressed the need to safeguard it against misrepresentation and misuse, particularly in media and advertising. Lamia Rashid Al Shamsi, a Sharjah-based heritage enthusiast documenting Emirati vocabulary since 2014, welcomed the move. 'Hearing the dialect misused on social media can confuse children. This policy helps us hold on to our language,' she said. Researcher Alia noted that 80% of the Emirati dialect stems directly from Arabic. 'Though the pronunciation may vary, the roots remain the same,' she explained. Entrepreneur Hanan Al Fardan, founder of the Al-Ramsa Institute — the region's first centre for teaching the Emirati dialect — believes the policy will educate and empower future generations. 'It's not a ban but a way to regulate misuse, especially in commercial contexts,' she said. Writer and heritage researcher Sheikha Mohammed Al Hai echoed this view. 'The policy protects our dialect from mockery and ensures it is passed down accurately,' she said. Experts anticipate a surge in educational initiatives and digital content promoting the dialect. Beyond regulation, the policy is seen as a bold cultural preservation effort — one that may inspire similar measures across the Arab world. News Source: Khaleej Times
Khaleej Times
23-04-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Dialect ban for non-Emiratis to promote proper language use among children, say experts
In a significant move aimed at preserving the cultural identity and heritage of the UAE, the government has recently implemented a new media policy that restricts the use of the Emirati dialect to citizens only. Prominent experts in Emirati dialect and culture have come forth to express their strong support for this initiative, highlighting its importance in preserving the UAE's unique linguistic identity. Lamia Rashid Al Shamsi, a 54-year-old mother and grandmother from Sharjah, has been actively documenting Emirati vocabulary since 2014 through social media and aiming to publish a book soon. She highlighted the positive implications of the new policy, stating, 'I have always felt that when I hear any media personality speaking the Emirati dialect incorrectly, it can influence children who are users of social media. We want to hold on to our language, and this decision by the government is a step in the right direction." The Emirati dialect is characterized by its authenticity, as its roots, vocabulary, and expressions trace back to Classical Arabic language. Researcher, Alia, said, "Eighty per cent of the Emirati dialect comes from the Arabic language. The pronunciation of letters may change, but their origin is Arabic." She explained that whenever she looks up a word from the Emirati dialect, she finds it in the Arabic dictionary. The Emirati dialect, across the diverse geographical landscape of the UAE, reflects the presence of many tribes living along the coasts, in the mountains, and in the desert. While there may be slight differences in words and expressions among tribes and areas, including some specific maritime and mountainous terms, the dialect generally shares many common features. Hanan Al Fardan, an Emirati entrepreneur and founder of the Al-Ramsa Institute, holds a master's degree in educational policies. She resigned from her job to establish the first specialised institute in the region for teaching the Emirati dialect to non-native speakers with Emirati Abdullah AlKaabi. She has done several workshops about Emirati culture, books, and publishing videos. 'This initiative will help foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of our dialect among the younger generation,' she stated. 'It is essential that we teach our children to embrace and communicate in their native dialect while also promoting its proper use.' Hanan expressed her appreciation for the decision, noting, 'The decision is unique as no Arab country has previously announced such a measure. It comes at a timely moment when we have seen advertisements using the Emirati dialect and traditional attire in negative contexts.' "Regulating this usage does not mean an absolute ban; rather, it organises the commercial use of the dialect without affecting social use or the genuine desire to learn and communicate," she added. Sheikha Mohammed Al Hai, a writer and researcher in Emirati heritage from Ras Al Khaimah, also voiced her support for the policy, stating, 'The new law serves future generations. I often find myself explaining Emirati vocabulary in my books that I have published, and I speak to my grandchildren in the old Emirati dialect so they can acquire it. This decision is vital, as many people are unaware of their heritage.' Sheikha lamented the misrepresentation of the Emirati dialect in media, saying, 'We have seen instances where the dialect has been used sarcastically, leading to confusion about our cultural identity. This policy is a necessary step to protect our identity.' Experts believe that this new policy will significantly increase awareness of the importance of learning the correct Emirati dialect and will lead to a rise in educational resources, particularly on social media platforms. The initiative is expected to encourage fostering cultural understanding and appreciation for locals and residents alike.
Shafaq News
28-03-2025
- General
- Shafaq News
Kurdish language: How Kurdistan is bridging dialects to preserve a rich heritage?
Shafaq News/ The Kurdish language, a vital pillar of Kurdish identity with a rich cultural heritage, grapples with the challenge of a fragmented dialect landscape. Unlike Classical Arabic or standardized English, no single dialect unites all Kurdish speakers across fields. Yet, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) has taken a leading role in advancing the language, striving to harmonize its dialects while preserving their unique essence. About Kurds? The Kurds, an ethnic group with a deep-rooted history, are spread across four main countries—Turkiye, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Their global population is estimated to range between 30 and over 40 million, though figures vary due to different methodologies and national policies. Political turmoil and regional conflicts have driven large Kurdish communities to Europe and the United States, where they have preserved their cultural and linguistic heritage despite living in exile. Kurdish literature, a testament to resilience and creativity, has played a pivotal role in shaping Kurdish identity. From classical to modern times, writers and poets have captured the spirit of their people, leaving an enduring mark on Kurdish history. Among the most influential figures is Ahmad Khani, known for his 17th-century epic Mem and Zin (Mem û Zîn), a foundational work in Kurdish literature. Other prominent names include Nali, Mawlawi, Goran, Mele Perîşan, Ghulamrezakhan Arkawazi, and Sherko Bekas, all of whom have contributed to the cultural and artistic legacy of the Kurds. One Language, Multiple Dialects In recent decades, the Kurdish language has experienced significant growth across various fields, especially in media and communication. Kurdish-language media outlets, along with social media platforms, have become essential tools for connecting with the public. This widespread use has not only raised awareness about Kurdish identity but also revealed the distinct differences among the region's various dialects. The Soranî dialect is one of the most widely spoken in the KRI and extends into Iran. Commonly used in media and education, it is also the official dialect in several regions and is closely associated with the works of prominent Kurdish poets and writers. In contrast, the Kurmanji dialect is prevalent in areas stretching from KRI's Duhok through Turkiye, Syria, and parts of Iran. With its own unique linguistic features, Kurmanji stands apart from Soranî, adding to the rich diversity of the Kurdish language. Kurdish Language Struggle For decades, the Kurdish language has faced marginalization in countries where Kurds reside, with policies restricting its use in official institutions and media. This, according to experts, has forced many Kurds to assimilate into Arabic, Turkish, and Persian, creating a linguistic identity gap among younger generations, who learn the official language without reinforcement of their native one. Kamran Rahimi, a language expert and head of the Zanist Institute in Iran's Ilam, viewed institutions dedicated to the Kurdish language as essential indicators of cultural progress. However, he noted that efforts to develop a standardized Kurdish language have fallen short. 'Since the establishment of the Kurdish Information Complex in Baghdad in 1970, experts have failed to create a unified official language. Instead, efforts have remained focused on specific dialects separately rather than collectively," Rahimi told Shafaq News. For speakers of dialects beyond the dominant Kurmanji and Soranî, the challenges are even greater. "Their struggle lies in prioritizing poetry and literature over language structure and grammar," Rahimi said. "Another issue is that language development institutions have given less attention to these dialects—either due to unfamiliarity or the belief that their own dialects are more authentic and accurate." A further complication is the division in Kurdish writing systems between the Latin alphabet and the modified Arabic script. Experts argue this is not just a technical issue but one that impacts cultural identity and linguistic unity, making reading, writing, and communication across political and geographical divides more difficult. This fragmentation reportedly deepens the educational and cultural divide between Kurdish-speaking regions, hindering the unified dissemination of Kurdish literature and heritage. Advancing Kurdish Language In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the Kurdish language has long been a symbol of cultural identity, with efforts to develop and standardize it taking center stage. Central to these efforts is the Kurdish Academy, established by the Regional Government to oversee language development and the introduction of new terminology. The academy has made significant strides, executing a range of scientific initiatives and strategic programs to support the Kurdish language. Among its most noteworthy achievements is the creation of a specialized committee, comprising 29 members, mostly from the Soranî dialect, tasked with addressing the Region's rich dialectal diversity, including Southern Feyli, Kalhori, Zaza, and Hawrami. Yet, challenges remain. Some social institutions have not fully adhered to the academy's guidelines, according to Dr. Mohsen Ahmed Omar, head of the Academy's Dictionary and Dialects Committee. "Media outlets and other entities should consult the academy before adopting new terms in news and publications," he stressed to our agency. The quest for a unified dialect is a central focus of the academy's work. "There is one Kurdish language spoken by all Kurds, and dialectal differences are not too significant," Dr. Mohsen explained. "Our initial goal is to standardize spelling rules and prepare a dictionary that is accessible to all Kurds, both online and in print." The Soranî dialect, he noted, has largely become a model, merging with other dialects over time. However, the academy is committed to ensuring that no dialect is overlooked in the process of language unification. "We want to maintain linguistic unity," he added, expressing his hope that Soranî would eventually become the standardized form that embraces all Kurdish dialects. The academy's goal, according to Dr. Muayyad Tayeb, is clear, "We aim to serve the Kurdish language in all its dialects, not to impose one dialect over another." While the standardization of a unified dialect would undoubtedly aid in reading and writing, he emphasized to Shafaq News the importance of respecting the linguistic diversity found in the media, literature, and education across the Kurdistan Region and other Kurdish-speaking areas.
Sharjah 24
23-03-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
SPL hosts 45 Arabist students to explore Sharjah's rich heritage
The tour reinforced SPL's century-long mission of fostering culture and knowledge, positioning libraries as essential bridges between civilisations. It also underscored the significance of public libraries as vibrant platforms for learning, dialogue, and engagement, particularly for Arabist students specialising in Arabic literature. By providing immersive cultural experiences, SPL continues strengthening global appreciation for Arabic heritage and promoting meaningful connections between cultures. Bridging cultures: Arabic in Russian Civilisation As part of the event's cultural programme, SPL hosted a panel discussion featuring Russian Arabist Anastasia Ostrokhova in the presence of Eman Bushlaibi, Director of SPL, along with researchers and cultural officials from the emirate. During the discussion, Ostrokhova reflected on her journey with the Arabic language, which began during her studies in Belarus. She shared how her fascination with Arabic culture and its rich history inspired her to master Classical Arabic, which she now considers her second native language. She deeply admired Arabic poetry and described it as "one of the most refined forms of poetry in the world." She also highlighted the remarkable structure of Arabic grammar and syntax, noting that its precision and clarity were among the most beautiful aspects of the language. The Arabist also recited a selection of classical Arabic verses, captivating the audience with her eloquent delivery. The oldest SPL branch in the eastern region The delegation began its tour with a visit to Kalba Public Library, the oldest SPL branch in the eastern region. Aisha Khamis Al Kaabi, the library's chief librarian, provided an in-depth overview of its various sections and services. Home to 71,315 titles and 83,711 books, the branch covers various disciplines, including religion, philosophy, social sciences, literature, history, geography, languages, and the arts. It also houses a dedicated UAE heritage collection, a children's library, and a women's library, alongside reading halls, event spaces, and internal and external borrowing services. Heritage tour As part of the event, participants toured Khorfakkan's heritage sites, including the Portuguese Fort, the Heritage Village, the Old Market, Al Hisn, and the Old Market Museum. The visit provided a deeper understanding of the region's rich history and cultural evolution over the centuries, aligning with Sharjah's vision of preserving its heritage for future generations. The event concluded with a group Iftar, during which attendees engaged in open discussions and exchanged insights on the importance of libraries and cultural initiatives in fostering global intellectual exchange. At the end of the tour, the Arabist students expressed their admiration for SPL's services and facilities, describing them as comprehensive knowledge and community hubs that cater to readers' needs while fostering an environment rich in learning and cultural exchange.
