Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre Celebrates Beauty Of Arabic Language At Avignon Festival 2025

The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) is set to participate in the 79th Avignon Festival, showcasing the beauty of Arabic language and literature. This event, scheduled from 5 to 26 July 2025 in Avignon, France, will feature a diverse cultural programme that highlights the artistic and literary heritage of the Arabic language.

Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, emphasised the significance of this participation: "The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre’s participation in the Avignon Festival will open doors for French and European audiences to discover the beauty of the Arabic language and the unique features that characterise its literary, intellectual, and artistic heritage, which further enriches cultural exchanges between different cultures and peoples".

This year, the festival honours Arabic as a language of culture and creativity. The ALC's collaboration with the Arab World Institute aims to present an extensive programme that offers insights into Arabic literature, poetry, and music. The festival annually celebrates a language that enriches global culture.

A special evening on 14 July will commemorate Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum's legacy at Cour du lycée Saint-Joseph. The event includes a book release by ALC tracing her career. Visitors can explore her cultural impact and influence across generations through this tribute.

The following day, on 15 July, a poetry night will be hosted by ALC featuring prominent Arab poets with a focus on Emirati talent. This event reflects the vibrant literary scene in the region and showcases contemporary voices in Arabic poetry.

Jack Lang, President of the Arab World Institute in Paris, praised ALC's efforts: "We share a common vision with the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, and a belief that the Arabic language, in all its richness and beauty, is a bridge between nations and a source of creativity that continues to inspire the world".

Strategic Partnerships for Cultural Exchange

The partnership between ALC and Arab World Institute plays a crucial role in promoting Arabic language appreciation. Dr. Bin Tamim acknowledged their strategic partner's efforts: "The Institute plays a remarkable role, rooted in a genuine appreciation of the status that Arabic enjoys as the language of a great civilisation".

Jack Lang also highlighted his commitment to reviving Arabic in France's public education system. He authored "La langue arabe - Trésor de la France," detailing Arabic's historical contributions to human civilisation.

The Avignon Festival has long been recognised for transforming art into intercultural dialogue. Dr. Bin Tamim noted: "Since its inception, the Avignon Festival has gained a prestigious position for its role in transforming art into a language of intercultural dialogue".

This year's festival theme aligns with ALC's mission to elevate Arabic's status globally through literature and art. The collaboration aims to enhance cultural exchanges between different peoples by highlighting Arabic's rich heritage.

With inputs from WAM