Sharjah’s panel at Rabat Book Fair explores connections between Arabic dialects
from the Gulf to North Africa
As part of Sharjah’s extensive cultural programme as Guest of Honour at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair 2025, the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) hosted a panel discussion entitled ‘Shared and divergent features in Arabic dialects from East to West.’ Featuring prominent linguists and cultural experts, the event highlighted the enduring linguistic ties across diverse Arab regions.
Moderated by celebrated Emirati author Sheikha Al Mutairi, the session brought together Dr. Sultan Al Ameemi, Chairman of the Emirates Writers Union, and esteemed Moroccan researcher Dr. Yahya Amara.
Dr. Al Ameemi illustrated the remarkable journey of Arabic vocabulary across centuries and continents. He explained how numerous Arabic words traversed from classical texts through regional dialects in the Levant and North Africa, eventually influencing other languages, before reappearing enriched within modern Arabic speech.
Shedding light on striking lexical similarities between Emirati and Moroccan dialects, Al Ameemi underscored the profound impact of historical Arab migrations. He specifically cited two pivotal movements: the initial migration of Arabs from the Arabian Peninsula to Al-Andalus during the Middle Ages, followed by waves of Andalusians relocating to Morocco after Al-Andalus’ fall; and the migration of the Bani Hilal tribe from the Levant to North Africa. These significant demographic shifts have left indelible linguistic footprints evident in contemporary dialects.
Highlighting shared linguistic characteristics, Al Ameemi pointed to common vocabulary and phonetic patterns that underscore a unified linguistic heritage extending from the Arabian Gulf to the Atlantic shores. Stressing the value of phonological research, he advocated for expanded lexicographical studies to deepen understanding of these linguistic commonalities in both Moroccan and Gulf contexts.
Complementing Al Ameemi’s insights, Dr. Yahya Amara emphasised language as a vessel for human experience, inherently migratory with its speakers. He reiterated that despite regional distinctions, all Arabic dialects trace their roots back to classical Arabic, fostering mutual understanding and cultural cohesion among Arab populations.
Dr. Amara further highlighted how classical Arab artistic traditions strengthened dialectical interconnectedness, noting how historical Arabic poetry often incorporated dialectal vocabulary, enriching literary heritage and facilitating cultural exchange.
Concluding the discussion, Dr. Amara proposed several strategic initiatives to reinforce linguistic and cultural ties between the Arab East and West. Recommendations included establishing a dedicated academy for language and arts, launching a major scientific conference focused on Arabic dialects, and creating an international prize to enhance dialogue and bridge linguistic gaps between Arabic and global languages