MBRF to organize 12th edition of ‘Bil Arabi’ Initiative
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 10 December 2024- The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) is set to launch the 12th edition of the ‘Bil Arabi’ initiative, a leading knowledge event in the region. The initiative promotes the use of the Arabic language across digital media platforms and highlights its beauty and role in strengthening the cultural identity of young people.
The ‘Bil Arabi’ initiative marks World Arabic Language Day, which is observed on 18 December each year. In addition to promoting the use of the Arabic language on social media platforms, the initiative also aims to nurture a strong connection to Arab cultural heritage by creating constructive content that elevates Arab identity.
This year’s edition will highlight the importance of upholding Arabic as a language of science and knowledge and a potent tool for global communication. The initiative’s agenda includes a series of engaging events, interactive activities, and exciting competitions to be held across major shopping malls, as well as through the MBRF’s digital media channels. The activities are designed to bolster young people’s connection to their native language while expanding their reach among diverse societal segments, including non-Arabic speakers.
His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, said: “The first edition of the ‘Bil Arabi’ initiative was launched more than a decade ago, in line with MBRF’s enduring efforts to enhance Arab identity and develop effective tools to preserve and promote it on the global stage. Through the years, the initiative has significantly influenced the Arab linguistic landscape by driving the use of the Arabic language on social media, bolstering the language’s presence in the digital space, and revitalizing cultural and linguistic connections in the society.”
His Excellency added: “Recently, the initiative earned the ‘King Salman Global Academy Prize for Arabic Language 2024,’ demonstrating its role in raising awareness of the Arabic language and its beauty. In its 12th edition, the ‘Bil Arabi’ initiative will continue to serve as a pioneering platform for promoting Arabic in daily life, especially among younger generations, through strategically designed events to engage diverse demographics.”
The ‘Bil Arabi’ campaign kicks off through online events and competitions on the initiative’s social media accounts from 12 to 19 December 2024. Onsite activities will run from 14 to 18 December 2024 at several malls across the UAE, offering an enriching experience for public participation and interaction. Dedicated platforms will be set up at locations including Mirdif City Centre and Etihad Mall in Dubai, Al Zahia Mall in Sharjah, Ajman City Centre in Ajman, and Bawadi Mall in Al Ain.
Featured activities include ‘The Storyteller,’ where three interactive stories chosen by participants will be narrated, and an ‘Interactive Screen’ offering a quiz for children and adults on the Arabic language and its knowledge. Successful participants will receive prizes onsite. Additionally, a ‘Selfie Screen’ will allow visitors to take pictures with backgrounds and characters related to the Arabic language and its heritage, while the ‘Talking Hologram’ activity will let audiences ask questions to a virtual character that responds interactively and engagingly.
The ‘Bil Arabi’ initiative was launched by MBRF in 2013 as a pioneering knowledge project to enhance Arabic digital content and effectively address related challenges. Over the years, the initiative has achieved remarkable success, significant online engagement through the hashtag #BilArabi both regionally and globally.
