KSGAAL Announces Winners of Fourth Harf Competition

The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language (KSGAAL) has announced and honored 12 winners across four categories of the fourth Harf competition for non-native Arabic-speaking students, according to an official statement released in Riyadh on November 14, 2026. More than 1,400 contestants from 65 nationalities, representing 29 Saudi educational institutions, took part in the competition, with 70 reaching the finals. The event stands as one of the most significant global initiatives to promote Arabic language learning among non-native speakers, reinforcing the Kingdom’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and educational excellence. How does such a competition shape the global perception of Arabic and Saudi Arabia’s role in preserving linguistic heritage?

The Harf competition, organized annually by KSGAAL, has grown into a premier platform for students of Arabic as a second language, offering them a stage to demonstrate linguistic, cognitive, and creative skills. This fourth edition attracted a record number of participants, underscoring the increasing global interest in Arabic and the effectiveness of Saudi-led efforts to support its teaching worldwide. The winners, hailing from Guinea, India, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Nigeria, reflect the diverse international community engaged in Arabic studies. Their achievements were celebrated in a ceremony that highlighted the importance of cross-cultural exchange and the role of language in building bridges between nations.

Context and Background

What led to the creation of a competition dedicated exclusively to non-native Arabic speakers? The Harf competition was launched by KSGAAL as part of a broader strategy to internationalize the Arabic language and support learners outside the Arab world. The academy, named after the late King Salman, operates under the umbrella of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and educational outreach, aligning with the Human Capability Development Program, a key realization program of Saudi Vision 2030. Since its inception, the competition has expanded in scope and participation, becoming a flagship event that complements other KSGAAL initiatives such as the Arabic Language International Day and various scholarship programs.

The fourth edition, held in 2026, continued this trajectory by inviting students from a wide range of nationalities and educational institutions across Saudi Arabia. The competition is structured around four categories: Lexical Proficiency, Language and Technology, Research Paper, and Language and Cultural Communication. Each category tests different aspects of language mastery, from vocabulary and grammar to the application of technology in language learning and the ability to conduct research in Arabic. By covering these diverse areas, the competition ensures that participants are evaluated holistically, reflecting the multifaceted nature of language acquisition.

Over the years, the Harf competition has become a vital component of Saudi Arabia’s soft power strategy, showcasing the Kingdom’s dedication to education and cultural exchange. It also serves as a testament to the growing global demand for Arabic language skills, driven by economic, diplomatic, and cultural ties with the Arab world. The participation of 29 Saudi educational institutions demonstrates the Kingdom’s internal capacity to host and manage such a large-scale event, further enhancing its reputation as a hub for Arabic language education.

Key Details

How did the winners distinguish themselves among more than 1,400 contestants? In the Lexical Proficiency category, Mohamed Moustapha Diallo of Guinea secured first place, followed by Ammar Tabish of India in second and Abdulrahman Abubaker Ahmed of Ethiopia in third. This category assesses the depth of vocabulary and the ability to use words accurately in context, a fundamental skill for any language learner. Diallo’s victory highlights the strong tradition of Arabic studies in West Africa, where the language has deep historical roots.

The Language and Technology category, which evaluates the integration of digital tools in Arabic learning, saw Musaad Mantawil Gomander of the Philippines take first place, with Egor Kirsanov of Russia second and Abdullah Mohamed Yousef of India third. This category is particularly relevant in today’s digital age, where technology plays an increasingly important role in education. The winners demonstrated innovative approaches to using apps, online resources, and artificial intelligence to enhance their Arabic proficiency.

In the Research Paper category, Abdulrahman Mantawil Gomander of the Philippines claimed first place, followed by Bambang Prasetyo Sihono and Muhammad Hisham Ghufran, both from Indonesia. This category requires participants to conduct original research in Arabic, showcasing their academic writing and analytical skills. The strong showing by Indonesian students reflects the country’s robust Arabic education system and its cultural ties to the Arab world.

Finally, in Language and Cultural Communication, Imanuddin bin Khaddam Shah of Malaysia won first place, with Abubaker Kabir Abba of Nigeria second and Muhammad Hammad Ur Rahim of India third. This category emphasizes the ability to communicate effectively across cultures, a skill that is essential in today’s interconnected world. The winners demonstrated not only linguistic competence but also a deep understanding of cultural nuances.

Dr. Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Washmi, Secretary-General of KSGAAL, praised the participants and emphasized the competition’s role in supporting Arabic learning among non-native speakers. He noted that the competition enables learners to apply their linguistic, cognitive, and creative skills, and it highlights the beauty and richness of the Arabic language. Dr. Al-Washmi also stressed that the event strengthens the learners’ ties with educational institutions, in line with the Human Capability Development Program.

International and Regional Impact

What does the global participation in the Harf competition signify for Saudi Arabia’s international standing? The presence of contestants from 65 nationalities underscores the universal appeal of the Arabic language and the success of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote it as a global language of culture, commerce, and diplomacy. The competition also reinforces the Kingdom’s position as a leader in Arabic language education, attracting students from Asia, Africa, and Europe. This soft power asset complements Saudi Arabia’s broader diplomatic and economic engagements, fostering goodwill and mutual understanding.

Regionally, the competition strengthens ties with countries that have significant Arabic-learning communities, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Nigeria. These nations are important partners for Saudi Arabia in various fields, and educational exchange programs like Harf contribute to deepening these relationships. By honoring students from these countries, KSGAAL not only recognizes individual achievement but also invests in future leaders who will carry positive perceptions of Saudi Arabia and the Arabic language into their careers.

Moreover, the competition serves as a model for other nations seeking to promote their languages internationally. Saudi Arabia’s approach, which combines institutional support, financial incentives, and cultural diplomacy, offers valuable lessons in language promotion. The Harf competition also aligns with UNESCO’s goals of preserving linguistic diversity and promoting multilingual education, further enhancing Saudi Arabia’s image as a responsible global actor.

Economic and Strategic Significance

How does promoting Arabic language learning contribute to Saudi Arabia’s economic and strategic objectives? As the Kingdom diversifies its economy under Vision 2030, proficiency in Arabic becomes increasingly valuable for international business, tourism, and cultural exchange. The Harf competition helps create a pool of skilled Arabic speakers who can facilitate trade, investment, and diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and their home countries. This is particularly important as Saudi Arabia expands its global partnerships and attracts foreign talent.

Furthermore, the competition supports the growth of the education sector, which is a key pillar of Vision 2030. By investing in Arabic language education, Saudi Arabia positions itself as a destination for students seeking to learn Arabic, thereby boosting educational tourism and related industries. The event also showcases Saudi Arabia’s advanced educational infrastructure and its capacity to host international events, which can attract further investment and collaboration.

Strategically, the Harf competition contributes to Saudi Arabia’s efforts to combat extremism and promote moderate Islam by fostering a deeper understanding of Arabic language and culture. Language is a gateway to cultural appreciation, and by enabling non-native speakers to engage with Arabic texts and traditions, the competition helps build a more nuanced and positive image of the Arab and Islamic world.

Vision 2030 Alignment

In what ways does the Harf competition exemplify the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030? The competition is directly linked to the Human Capability Development Program, one of the Vision 2030 realization programs aimed at empowering citizens and enhancing the Kingdom’s global competitiveness. By supporting Arabic language learning among non-native speakers, KSGAAL contributes to the program’s goals of fostering cultural exchange, building global partnerships, and promoting Saudi Arabia as a center of excellence in Arabic language education.

Vision 2030 seeks to diversify the economy, strengthen national identity, and enhance the Kingdom’s international standing. The Harf competition advances all three objectives by creating economic opportunities in education and cultural industries, reinforcing the centrality of the Arabic language to Saudi identity, and projecting a positive image of Saudi Arabia as a champion of cultural heritage. As the competition continues to grow, it will play an increasingly important role in realizing the vision of a vibrant, globally engaged Saudi Arabia.

In conclusion, the fourth Harf competition stands as a shining example of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to education, cultural diplomacy, and the promotion of the Arabic language. The winners, representing a diverse array of nations, embody the spirit of cross-cultural exchange that Vision 2030 seeks to foster. Their achievements inspire others to embrace the Arabic language, and their success reinforces the Kingdom’s role as a global leader in language education. How many future leaders will be shaped by this competition, and how will they contribute to a more interconnected world?

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Harf competition?

A1. The Harf competition is an annual event organized by the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language to promote Arabic learning among non-native speakers through four categories: Lexical Proficiency, Language and Technology, Research Paper, and Language and Cultural Communication.

Q2. Who won first place in the Lexical Proficiency category?

A2. Mohamed Moustapha Diallo of Guinea won first place in the Lexical Proficiency category, followed by Ammar Tabish of India in second and Abdulrahman Abubaker Ahmed of Ethiopia in third.

Q3. How many contestants participated in the fourth Harf competition?

A3. More than 1,400 contestants from 65 nationalities, representing 29 Saudi educational institutions, participated in the fourth Harf competition, with 70 reaching the finals.

Q4. What are the four categories of the Harf competition?

A4. The four categories are Lexical Proficiency, Language and Technology, Research Paper, and Language and Cultural Communication. Each category tests different aspects of Arabic language mastery and application.

Q5. Who is the Secretary-General of KSGAAL?

A5. Dr. Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Washmi is the Secretary-General of the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language. He praised the competition for supporting Arabic learning among non-native speakers.

Q6. Which country had the most winners in the fourth Harf competition?

A6. The Philippines had two first-place winners: Musaad Mantawil Gomander in Language and Technology and Abdulrahman Mantawil Gomander in Research Paper. India had three winners across different categories.

Q7. What is the Human Capability Development Program?

A7. The Human Capability Development Program is a Saudi Vision 2030 realization program aimed at empowering citizens, improving education, and enhancing the Kingdom’s global competitiveness. The Harf competition aligns with its objectives.

Q8. How does the Harf competition support Arabic language learning?

A8. The competition provides a platform for non-native speakers to demonstrate their linguistic, cognitive, and creative skills, encourages excellence in Arabic studies, and strengthens ties between learners and educational institutions.

Q9. Who won first place in the Language and Technology category?

A9. Musaad Mantawil Gomander of the Philippines won first place in the Language and Technology category, followed by Egor Kirsanov of Russia in second and Abdullah Mohamed Yousef of India in third.

Q10. What is the significance of the Research Paper category?

A10. The Research Paper category requires participants to conduct original research in Arabic, showcasing their academic writing and analytical skills. It promotes deep engagement with the language and contributes to Arabic scholarship.

Q11. Who won first place in the Research Paper category?

A11. Abdulrahman Mantawil Gomander of the Philippines won first place in the Research Paper category, followed by Bambang Prasetyo Sihono and Muhammad Hisham Ghufran, both of Indonesia.

Q12. How does the Harf competition align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A12. The competition aligns with Vision 2030 through the Human Capability Development Program, promoting cultural exchange, education, and Saudi Arabia’s role as a global leader in Arabic language education.

Q13. Who won first place in Language and Cultural Communication?

A13. Imanuddin bin Khaddam Shah of Malaysia won first place in Language and Cultural Communication, followed by Abubaker Kabir Abba of Nigeria in second and Muhammad Hammad Ur Rahim of India in third.

Q14. What did Dr. Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Washmi say about the competition?

A14. He said the competition supports Arabic learning among non-native speakers, enables learners to apply their linguistic, cognitive, and creative skills, highlights Arabic’s beauty, and strengthens ties with educational institutions.

Q15. How many Saudi educational institutions participated in the competition?

A15. Twenty-nine Saudi educational institutions participated in the fourth Harf competition, hosting contestants and contributing to the event’s success. This reflects the Kingdom’s strong educational infrastructure.

Q16. What is the role of KSGAAL in promoting Arabic?

A16. KSGAAL, the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, organizes the Harf competition and other initiatives to internationalize Arabic, support learners worldwide, and preserve the language’s heritage.

Q17. Which countries were represented among the winners?

A17. Winners came from Guinea, India, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Nigeria, reflecting the global reach of the competition and the diversity of Arabic learners.

Q18. How does the competition benefit the winners?

A18. Winners gain recognition, enhance their academic and professional profiles, and become ambassadors for Arabic language learning. The competition also opens doors to further educational and career opportunities.

Q19. What is the future of the Harf competition?

A19. The Harf competition is expected to continue growing, attracting more participants and expanding its categories. It will remain a key initiative in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote Arabic globally.

Q20. How can non-native speakers participate in future Harf competitions?

A20. Non-native Arabic speakers can participate through their educational institutions or by contacting KSGAAL directly. The competition is open to students from around the world, with details announced annually.