‘Bil Arabi’ 2024: Fostering Youth Engagement and Promoting Arabic in the Digital Era
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) successfully concluded the 12th edition of the ‘Bil Arabi’ initiative, an annual campaign dedicated to promoting the Arabic language in daily life and digital spaces, particularly among the youth. Held in conjunction with World Arabic Language Day on December 18, the initiative attracted significant public interest, with interactive events taking place across the UAE and internationally.
In the UAE, activities were held at popular shopping destinations such as City Centre Mirdif, Etihad Mall, City Centre Al Zahia, and City Centre Ajman, engaging audiences with creative and immersive experiences. Beyond the UAE, the campaign expanded its reach to Bahrain, Egypt, the United Kingdom, Kazakhstan, and Pakistan. A dedicated social media drive using the hashtag #بالعربي further amplified the campaign’s visibility.
His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, celebrated the campaign’s success, emphasizing its role in nurturing the Arab knowledge identity. He noted the initiative’s creative influence in integrating the Arabic language into modern contexts, including its use across social media platforms and everyday interactions.
"The ‘Bil Arabi’ initiative has inspired younger generations to embrace the Arabic language as a medium of creative expression and effective communication. It underscores the language's adaptability to modern demands while preserving its rich cultural and historical legacy," said H.E. Jamal bin Huwaireb.
The campaign also featured a panel discussion organized in collaboration with UNESCO, the Arab Council for Social Responsibility, and the Association of Arab Universities. Attended by leading experts, the session highlighted Arabic's global significance as a language of knowledge, culture, and civilization. Speakers addressed the urgent need to bolster Arabic content online and encouraged parents to instill the use of Arabic in children to preserve their cultural heritage and identity.
Interactive activities like ‘The Storyteller’ for children, the ‘Interactive Screen’ featuring language competitions, and the ‘Selfie Screen’ showcasing Arab heritage-inspired backgrounds captivated audiences. The ‘Talking Hologram’, an innovative digital experience, demonstrated the seamless integration of technology with the Arabic language.
The campaign was supported by key partners, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Center, and Ahlia University in Bahrain, alongside sponsors such as e& (Etisalat and), Al-Etihad Co-operative Insurance Co., and Dubai Media Incorporated. Media sponsors included Alghad TV, Al Arabiya Channel, and Entrepreneur, among others, ensuring widespread visibility for the initiative.
The 12th edition of ‘Bil Arabi’ not only reinforced the Arabic language’s relevance in contemporary society but also strengthened its position as a cornerstone of Arab cultural heritage, uniting communities and inspiring future generations worldwide.
