The United Arab Emirates University held the Arab Heritage Literature: Modern Reading and Creative Digitalisations Conference

Under the patronage of H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President, and in the presence of H.E. Mohammad Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, H.E. Dr. Ali Bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), Chairman of the Arabic Language Academy in Abu Dhabi, and H.E. Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Acting Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, the Department of Arabic Language & Literature at the United Arab Emirates University held the “Arab Heritage Literature: Modern Reading and Creative Digitalisations” conference. The event took place over two days, from February 24-25, 2025, and featured a selection of prominent figures, experts in literature and heritage, faculty members, and students.

In his speech, H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh emphasized the importance of the Arabic language, stating that its enhancement is not merely a cultural responsibility but a fundamental pillar in the journey of urban development. He described Arabic as a bridge between the past and the future, noting that preserving and investing in the language through digital innovation reflects a forward-thinking vision that not only repositions Arabic but also brings it into the modern age. H.E. also highlighted that the conference marks a significant milestone in promoting academic research in Arabic language literature, combining modern readings that address traditional works with contemporary critical approaches and digital technologies that reintroduce these texts to meet the demands of the digital era.

H.E. Mohammad Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, discussed the role of technology in serving the Arabic language, reviewing the stages of its development from the 1970s to the present day. He emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence in supporting the Arabic language and enhancing its cultural standing. He also highlighted the significance of utilizing the Arab cultural heritage to develop innovative digital content that strengthens the presence of the Arabic language in the digital age, while noting the role of the United Arab Emirates University in empowering youth and building cultural and scientific knowledge.

For his part, H.E. Dr. Ali Bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), and Chairman of the Arabic Language Academy in Abu Dhabi emphasized the importance of the Arabic language in building cultural identity and enhancing civilizational communication. He highlighted the Centre's role in developing comprehensive strategies to advance the Arabic language on both local and international levels. He also spoke about supporting Arab talents in the fields of writing, translation, and publishing, and the significance of using artificial intelligence to strengthen the global role of the Arabic language.

Dr. Ghaneimah Al Yammahi, Assistant Professor and Chair of the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at UAEU, stated, “The Arabic language is a cornerstone of cultural identity, and Arab heritage literature is a rich source of inspiration and knowledge.” She further noted that the conference solidifies UAEU's commitment to offering contemporary visions that reflect the spirit of the era and enhance the global status of the Arabic language.
The conference featured various academic sessions, including "Arabic Literature and Digital Innovative Industries" presented by Prof. Mohammad Aldroubi, and "The Creative Potentials Inherent in the Textual Product and the Mechanisms for its Digital Transformation," delivered by Dr. Aisha Al Shamsi. On the second day, sessions included "Literature, Heritage, and Modern Reception," moderated by Prof. Zuhoor Kiram, and "Heritage Literature between Interactive Performance and Artificial Intelligence," chaired by Dr. Mohamed Adeil.

In addition, several training workshops were held to enhance technical skills for presenting literature and heritage in modern ways. These included a voice-over workshop by media professional Dr. Ayoub Yusuf and a scriptwriting and dialogue workshop by Dr. Youssef Hattini.

The conference concluded with a tour of an accompanying exhibition, which showcased innovations from students and faculty members at the university, embodying UAEU's vision of promoting the Arabic language in the digital age.