By Zayed Alzyoud
The University of Jordan (UJ) participated in the 2nd Sharjah International Conference on the Arabic Language, held under the theme “Artificial Intelligence in the Service of the Arabic Language: Creativity, Education, and Research,” and hosted by the University of Sharjah.
The conference opened under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and brought together scholars, researchers and language specialists from more than 30 countries to explore the future of Arabic in the digital age.
Representing UJ, Dean of the School of Arts Prof. Mohammad Qudah delivered a keynote address highlighting the role of smart digital applications and artificial intelligence in supporting the Arabic language, sustaining its vitality and strengthening its presence amid rapid technological transformation.
Qudah noted that Arabic lies at the heart of Arab identity and cultural heritage, with a legacy spanning literature, science and intellectual thought. He stressed the importance of leveraging modern technologies to transform this heritage into accessible knowledge that serves education, research and creativity, particularly for younger generations.
He also reviewed the expanding use of AI in Arabic language processing, including phonetics and speech analysis, morphology, syntax, semantics and lexicography. Applications, he said, range from text analytics and manuscript digitisation to interactive learning platforms, language-checking tools and automated diacritization systems.
Emphasising the need for active engagement rather than passive consumption of technology, Qudah called for developing Arabic-focused digital tools and software that respond to the language’s unique features. He underlined the role of universities in leading innovation and delivering solutions that support Arabic’s digital presence and sovereignty.
The conference forms part of broader efforts to enhance Arabic language education, advance linguistic research and help preserve the language’s literary and scientific heritage through academic sessions, specialised panels and training workshops.