Arabic Language AI: University Of Sharjah Conference Explores Its Support Role

The University of Sharjah is preparing to host the second Sharjah International Conference on the Arabic Language on Wednesday, 4 February. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the event will examine how artificial intelligence can assist Arabic teaching, research, and creative writing across the region and beyond.

The conference, titled "Artificial Intelligence in the Service of the Arabic Language: Creativity, Education, and Research," will gather specialists from more than 28 countries. Academics, technologists, and language experts will explore smart tools that support Arabic in universities, schools, and digital platforms, with a strong focus on ethical use and practical applications.

Scientific sessions will concentrate on the growing links between artificial intelligence and the Arabic language. Discussions will address Arabic learning in schools and higher education, the role of smart systems in linguistic research, and the study of ethical concerns around automated tools. Speakers will also analyse classical and colloquial Arabic texts using modern artificial intelligence techniques.

The programme includes main and parallel sessions, along with specialist workshops that examine new technological trends. Presentations will highlight theoretical studies and applied projects that use artificial intelligence for tasks such as text analysis, language modelling, and digital resources. The structure is designed to encourage detailed debate and practical demonstrations across different research areas.

The conference has drawn wide research interest, with nearly 100 academics from more than 28 countries submitting papers. After a strict peer-review process, 60 papers were accepted for presentation. These papers will appear in several tracks that reflect the diversity of the field, spanning education technologies, natural language processing, and creative language applications.

Dr Mariam Balajid, Head of the Scientific, Advisory, and Organising Committees, stated that the event targets faculty members, researchers, and university students, as well as professionals in academic, educational, and research institutions. The conference also addresses specialists working in ministries of education and higher education in the United Arab Emirates, across the Arab world, and internationally.

Artificial intelligence and Arabic language initiatives and impact

Balajid noted that a key feature this year is the launch of the "Sharjah International Award for Best Artificial Intelligence Application Serving the Arabic Language," which supports creative projects in natural language processing, intelligent learning, translation, and content production. Winners will be announced and honoured during the opening ceremony, highlighting applied solutions that directly serve Arabic users.

Head of the Department of Arabic Language and Literature at the University of Sharjah, Dr Badia Al-Hashemi, said the conference is strengthening its status as a scientific meeting point with academic, cultural, and developmental dimensions. Al-Hashemi explained that recommendations, studies, and initiatives produced by participants help decision-makers and researchers enhance the role of Arabic now and protect it for future generations.

The conference aims to showcase notable initiatives that employ artificial intelligence for Arabic, promote innovation and leadership in this field, and support the sustainability of the language amid fast digital change. It also seeks to develop curricula, revise methods of teaching non-native speakers, and align Arabic education with smart learning technologies, reflecting the University of Sharjah mission and Sharjah’s cultural commitment.

With inputs from WAM