King Saud University Hosts International Conference on Camels in Arab Culture

King Saud University (KSU) will host the fifth International Conference on Camels in Arab Culture on December 30–31, 2024, in Riyadh, under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture’s designation of 2024 as the Year of the Camel. Organized by the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at KSU, the conference aims to illuminate the cultural and civilizational significance of camels, enhance their literary and cultural presence locally and globally, and affirm their deeply rooted status in Arab heritage. Researchers from Saudi Arabia and around the world are invited to submit abstracts by September 15 via the conference website.

Context and Background

The Year of the Camel initiative, declared by the Ministry of Culture, celebrates the camel as an enduring symbol of Arab identity, resilience, and generosity. Camels have been central to trade, travel, and survival in the Arabian Peninsula for millennia, and their cultural resonance extends through poetry, folklore, and social traditions. King Saud University, a leading institution of higher education in the Kingdom, has previously hosted four editions of this conference, establishing it as a premier academic forum for interdisciplinary dialogue on the camel’s role in shaping Arab civilization.

Key Details

The conference will take place on December 30–31 and is organized by the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at KSU. It invites researchers from Saudi Arabia and abroad to participate and submit research abstracts through the official conference website: https://www.icalksu.info. The submission deadline is September 15. The event seeks to foster scholarly exchange on the camel’s cultural and literary representations, its historical importance, and its contemporary relevance. By bringing together academics, writers, and heritage experts, the conference aims to deepen understanding of the camel’s multifaceted role in Arab culture and to promote international academic collaboration.

Implications and Impact

This conference underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage on the global stage. It aligns with the broader objectives of the Year of the Camel, which highlights the animal’s economic, environmental, and social contributions. The event is expected to attract significant international participation, enhancing cross-cultural dialogue and showcasing Saudi Arabia’s academic leadership. Furthermore, it reinforces the Kingdom’s efforts to document and celebrate its heritage as part of its national identity, while also contributing to global knowledge about the camel’s role in human history.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The conference directly supports Saudi Vision 2030 by promoting cultural enrichment, education, and international engagement. Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of preserving national heritage while fostering a vibrant cultural sector that contributes to economic diversification and global soft power. By hosting this international academic gathering, King Saud University exemplifies the Kingdom’s dedication to advancing research, strengthening cultural diplomacy, and celebrating the timeless legacy of the camel—a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s past, present, and future.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the main event being hosted by King Saud University?

A1. King Saud University will host the fifth International Conference on Camels in Arab Culture on December 30–31, 2024.

Q2. Where will the conference take place?

A2. The conference will be held at King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Q3. Who is organizing the conference?

A3. The Department of Arabic Language and Literature at King Saud University is organizing the event.

Q4. What is the theme of the conference?

A4. The theme focuses on the cultural and civilizational values of camels in Arab culture and their literary presence.

Q5. When is the deadline for submitting research abstracts?

A5. The deadline for submissions is September 15, 2024.

Q6. How can researchers submit their abstracts?

A6. Researchers can submit abstracts via the conference website: https://www.icalksu.info.

Q7. Who is eligible to participate in the conference?

A7. Researchers from Saudi Arabia and abroad are invited to participate.

Q8. What is the significance of the Year of the Camel?

A8. The Year of the Camel celebrates the camel’s cultural, historical, and economic importance in Arab heritage.

Q9. How many editions of this conference have been held previously?

A9. This is the fifth edition of the International Conference on Camels in Arab Culture.

Q10. What does the conference aim to achieve?

A10. It aims to highlight the camel’s cultural values and enhance its cultural and literary presence globally.

Q11. Which ministry designated 2024 as the Year of the Camel?

A11. The Ministry of Culture designated 2024 as the Year of the Camel.

Q12. Why are camels important in Arab culture?

A12. Camels have been central to trade, travel, and survival in the Arabian Peninsula for millennia.

Q13. What role does King Saud University play in this event?

A13. KSU hosts and organizes the conference through its Department of Arabic Language and Literature.

Q14. Will the conference feature international participation?

A14. Yes, researchers from around the world are invited to participate and share their research.

Q15. How does the conference support Vision 2030?

A15. It promotes cultural preservation, education, and international engagement, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

Q16. What topics will be discussed at the conference?

A16. Topics include the camel’s cultural, literary, historical, and contemporary significance in Arab society.

Q17. Is there a fee to attend the conference?

A17. The announcement does not specify fees; interested parties should check the conference website for details.

Q18. What is the expected outcome of the conference?

A18. It aims to deepen understanding of the camel’s role and foster international academic collaboration.

Q19. How does the conference contribute to Saudi Arabia’s cultural diplomacy?

A19. It showcases Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and academic leadership on a global stage.

Q20. Where can one find more information about the conference?

A20. More information is available on the official conference website: https://www.icalksu.info.

Reader Feedback

We value your thoughts. Please share your feedback on this article.

Name *

Message *

Your feedback helps us improve our coverage.