ALA and UNESCO Celebrate the Completion of Arabic Historical Dictionary

A Global Tribute to Language and Culture

In celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity, the Arabic Language Academy (ALA) in Sharjah and UNESCO hosted a high-level symposium recognizing the role of historical linguistic dictionaries in preserving global heritage. The event marked a historic moment—the official inclusion of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language in the UNESCO Library. The dictionary’s completion was led by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, whose decades-long dedication to Arabic linguistics was praised as both scholarly and culturally transformative.

Global Scholars Unite on Linguistic Legacy

Experts from institutions in the UAE, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain joined the symposium to share the impact of their nations’ historical dictionaries. Key speakers included:

Dr. Amhamed Safi Mosteghanemi (Sharjah ALA)
Dr. Paolo Dacicelli (La Crusca, Rome)
Dr. Sebastian Geuther (University of Göttingen)
Dr. Charlotte Curie (University of Lyon III)
Dr. Laura Gago Gómez (University of Salamanca)

Each highlighted the critical role of dictionaries in tracing word origins, documenting language evolution, and preserving cultural memory.

Arabic Dictionary Sets a New Global Standard

Dr. Mosteghanemi detailed how the Arabic dictionary—now the largest and most comprehensive Arabic linguistic reference—tracks the evolution of words over centuries. It stands as a “timeless scientific treasure,” bridging the past with the future. UNESCO’s UAE representative, Ali Al Haj Al Ali, opened the event and described the dictionary’s inclusion in the UNESCO Library as a historic recognition of Arabic civilization and a “tool for innovation.”

Global Perspectives on Language Preservation

From the Grimm Brothers’ German dictionary to the Diderot Encyclopedia in France, the symposium underscored how historical dictionaries in Europe have shaped national identities. Spain’s ongoing dictionary project and Italy’s deep lexicographic heritage echoed similar goals of linguistic preservation.

A Milestone for Arabic and Beyond

The event closed with broad agreement: the Arabic Historical Dictionary is not just a national accomplishment—it is a global reference for linguistic research and cultural history.