Jeddah is set to welcome the sixth annual Makkah International Conference on Arabic Language and Literature from January 3 to 5, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah Al Salam. Themed “Arabic Language and the Challenges of Digitization,” the conference is organized under the umbrella of the Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority (SCEGA) and will convene academics, researchers, and graduate students from 17 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, Jordan, Iraq, Yemen, Egypt, Sudan, Libya, Algeria, Chad, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UK, and Italy.
Context and Background
This annual event reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving and promoting the Arabic language as a cornerstone of cultural identity and Islamic heritage. As the language of the Holy Quran, Arabic holds profound significance, and the conference aims to enhance cultural pride while addressing modern challenges. This year’s focus on digitization underscores the Kingdom’s recognition of the need to integrate traditional linguistic studies with digital innovation, aligning with global trends in education and technology.
Key Details
The conference organizing committee, led by Dr. Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al-Zahrani, has outlined a robust program featuring 10 scientific sessions with 40 peer-reviewed research papers exploring various aspects of Arabic language and literature. Additionally, 10 scientific posters will showcase research projects, initiatives, and successful experiences. A special training workshop titled “AI Applications in the Arabic Language” will focus on modern technological tools and their role in advancing Arabic education. Dr. Al-Zahrani emphasized the conference’s objectives, which include fostering communication among Arabic language specialists, exchanging expertise, and showcasing the latest scientific research in Arabic studies and digital applications.
Implications and Impact
The conference serves as a platform to bridge traditional Arabic studies with modern digital innovations, reflecting the evolving landscape of Arabic language teaching and research. By bringing together participants from 17 countries, the event promotes international collaboration and knowledge exchange. This initiative supports the broader goal of positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for culture, education, and research, strengthening ties with academic communities worldwide and contributing to the digital transformation of language education.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The conference aligns closely with Vision 2030 by fostering cultural enrichment, educational excellence, and technological advancement. It supports the Kingdom’s efforts to preserve Arabic as a living language while embracing innovation, contributing to a vibrant society and a diversified economy. This event exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting cultural heritage and digital literacy, paving the way for a future where tradition and technology coexist harmoniously.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Makkah International Conference on Arabic Language and Literature?
A1. It is an annual academic event focusing on Arabic language and literature, organized under the Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority (SCEGA), bringing together researchers and specialists from around the world.
Q2. When and where will the sixth conference take place?
A2. The conference will be held from January 3 to 5, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Jeddah Al Salam, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Q3. What is the theme of the 2025 conference?
A3. The theme is “Arabic Language and the Challenges of Digitization,” highlighting the integration of traditional Arabic studies with modern digital tools and innovations.
Q4. Who is organizing the conference?
A4. The conference is organized under the umbrella of the Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority (SCEGA), with a committee led by Dr. Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al-Zahrani.
Q5. How many countries are participating in the conference?
A5. Participants from 17 countries are attending, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Oman, Jordan, Iraq, Yemen, Egypt, Sudan, Libya, Algeria, Chad, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UK, and Italy.
Q6. What are the main objectives of the conference?
A6. Objectives include fostering communication among Arabic language specialists, exchanging expertise, showcasing scientific research, and enhancing cultural pride in the Arabic language.
Q7. How many scientific sessions will be held?
A7. The conference will feature 10 scientific sessions with 40 peer-reviewed research papers covering various topics in Arabic language and literature.
Q8. Will there be poster presentations?
A8. Yes, 10 scientific posters will showcase research projects, initiatives, and successful experiences related to Arabic studies.
Q9. Is there a workshop on artificial intelligence?
A9. Yes, a special training workshop titled “AI Applications in the Arabic Language” will be held, focusing on modern technological tools in Arabic education.
Q10. Why is Arabic language considered important in Saudi Arabia?
A10. Arabic is the language of the Holy Quran and a cornerstone of Islamic heritage. Saudi Arabia prioritizes its preservation and promotion as part of cultural identity.
Q11. How does the conference address digitization challenges?
A11. The conference explores digital tools and AI applications in Arabic studies, aiming to bridge traditional methods with modern innovations for language teaching and research.
Q12. Who can attend the conference?
A12. The conference is open to academics, researchers, graduate students, and specialists in Arabic language and literature from Saudi Arabia and abroad.
Q13. What is the role of SCEGA in this event?
A13. The Saudi Conventions and Exhibitions General Authority (SCEGA) provides organizational oversight and support, ensuring the conference meets high standards of academic and professional excellence.
Q14. How does the conference promote international collaboration?
A14. By hosting participants from 17 countries, the event facilitates cross-cultural exchange and cooperation among researchers, strengthening global ties in Arabic studies.
Q15. What topics will research papers cover?
A15. Papers will explore various aspects of Arabic language and literature, including linguistic studies, literary analysis, and digital applications in language education.
Q16. How does the conference support Vision 2030?
A16. The conference aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting cultural enrichment, educational excellence, and technological innovation, contributing to a vibrant society and diversified economy.
Q17. Will the conference feature digital tools for language learning?
A17. Yes, the workshop on AI applications and other sessions will highlight modern tools and technologies that enhance Arabic language learning and teaching.
Q18. Is this the first time the conference is being held?
A18. No, it is the sixth annual edition, building on previous successes in fostering dialogue and innovation in Arabic language research.
Q19. How can participants benefit from the poster sessions?
A19. Poster sessions provide a platform for researchers to present ongoing projects, receive feedback, and network with peers, encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Q20. Where can readers find more information about the conference?
A20. Official details were released by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). For updates, readers can follow announcements from SCEGA and other Saudi government channels.
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