Language study offers snapshot of Arabic proficiency among Abu Dhabi residents

A new study conducted by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre provides a detailed look into the Arabic language proficiency of residents in the capital city. Over 4,000 individuals participated in the assessment, which took place over the course of eight months. The survey included 12 questions designed to evaluate various aspects of Arabic, such as vocabulary, spelling, and syntax. The results revealed varying levels of proficiency among participants, with Emiratis achieving a 66 per cent success rate and other Arab nationals reaching 73 per cent. Participants under the age of 24 showed the lowest scores, performing more than 15 points lower than older age groups on the 100-point scale. Gender differences were also noted, with 72 per cent of women and 68 per cent of men considered proficient. Morphology, which involves the formation and alteration of Arabic words, proved to be the most challenging aspect for all groups. In contrast, participants excelled in recognizing word meanings and terminology within their linguistic context. Seventy per cent of those who took part in the study scored above the threshold of 51, which the center classified as a satisfactory performance. Ali bin Tamim, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, emphasized the importance of these findings in shaping future language policies and educational programs. He stated that the study would enhance the understanding of how Arabic is used within the community and support the development of initiatives aimed at strengthening the language's presence in society. The research aligns with broader efforts related to the UAE's designation of 2026 as the Year of Family, highlighting the role of families in preserving and transmitting Arabic. Bin Tamim noted that Arabic serves not just as a means of communication but also as a carrier of identity, culture, and values. This initiative aims to build a foundation of knowledge that supports both the preservation and progression of the Arabic language in daily life. The study coincides with ongoing conversations regarding the status of Arabic among younger populations in the region. Recent data from the UAE National Reading Index indicates a slight increase in Arabic reading habits, rising from 24.6 per cent in 2023 to 27.2 per cent in 2025. Despite this growth, English continues to be the preferred language for reading, accounting for 48.7 per cent of readers, a decrease from 51 per cent in 2023. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Culture released the results of the 2023 Arab Youth Survey, which highlighted that nearly half of young Arabs believe Arabic holds less importance for them compared to their parents. Only a small fraction, 11 per cent, identified language as the primary factor in defining their identity. These findings underscore the complex relationship between younger generations and the Arabic language, reflecting broader societal shifts and challenges in maintaining linguistic heritage amidst evolving cultural dynamics.