The Arabic Language in the Politics of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The article analyses the evolution of language policy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) within the context of implementing the strategic “Saudi Vision 2030” program. Based on an examination of key legislative acts and contemporary reforms, the paper reveals the mechanisms for developing and affirming the Arabic language as a core element of national identity and, simultaneously, a tool of soft power on the international level. Particular attention is given to the activities of the Kingdom’s government bodies and various educational institutions. The work details the initiatives and projects of the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language (KSGAAL). It analyses its projects, such as the digitalization of the language, the standardization of terminology through glossaries, and large-scale international educational projects like “Arabic Language Month”. The causes, dynamics, and consequences of the interaction between Arabization and globalization in educational and digital spaces are shown. The study examines the dialectic of Arabization and globalization against the backdrop of internal transformations and the intensification of KSA’s foreign policy. The research demonstrates that the state consistently upholds the priority of the Arabic language in legal and public spheres, while simultaneously pursuing a pragmatic course toward a strategic symbiosis with the English language in education and science to integrate into the global economy. Contemporary challenges, such as the spread of Arabizi and the low share of Arabic content in the digital environment, are separately considered, along with innovative countermeasures, including the development of the national AI model Allam. In conclusion, the study justifies a system of concrete measures for deepening Russian-Saudi humanitarian cooperation. It proposes mutual educational initiatives, including academic exchanges, joint cultural-linguistic projects, and the training of teaching staff, the implementation of which could yield a synergistic effect for both Russia and Saudi Arabia.

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