Congress to Examine Arabic’s Role in Identity, Knowledge and Digital Growth.
Abu Dhabi: Policymakers, investors, technology leaders, academics and creators from around the world will gather in Abu Dhabi this month to explore how Arabic can play a greater role in the digital and creative economy.
The Congress of Arabic and Creative Industries 2026 will take place on September 20 at Manarat Al Saadiyat under the theme, “Arabic as Infrastructure: Identity, Knowledge & Economic Power in the Digital Age.”
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the one-day event will focus on intellectual property, digital platforms, language technology, investment and the development of creative talent.
Dr Ali Bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, said the focus should extend beyond making Arabic more accessible to creating content, opportunities and sustainable pathways for creators.
“Our ambition at the Congress of Arabic and Creative Industries is for Arabic to be present across the entire creative value chain — from ideas and knowledge to content, intellectual property and investment,” he said.
Global speakers
Egyptian actor, writer and producer Ahmed Amin will host the Congress.
The opening discussion will bring together Bin Tamim, Anne-Claire Legendre, President of the Arab World Institute in Paris, and Professor Roberto Tottoli, Rector of the University of Naples L’Orientale.
The panel will explore the relationship between the Arabic language and identity, including how Arabic can preserve its cultural role while becoming more deeply integrated into the digital economy.
Another session will explore the value of Arabic content and intellectual property, bringing together representatives from TikTok, Dar Al Adab and MBC Shahid to discuss publishing, digital platforms, licensing and content distribution.
Professor Andy Pratt, UNESCO Chair in Global Creative Economy, will also examine how government policies, funding and talent development can help strengthen the creative industries.
Historian and content creator Dr Roy Casagranda will explore the historical links between Arabic and Europe, highlighting the language’s role in the exchange of knowledge and culture.
Opportunities for young creators
Congress X Youth will run alongside the main programme, giving university students, young professionals and emerging creators access to workshops, masterclasses and industry experiences.
CNN Arabic will host a newsroom simulation, allowing participants to experience how developing stories are handled and editorial decisions are made in real time. A separate mobile journalism session will focus on production skills and the use of AI tools.
The Congress X Youth Innovation Awards will also recognise projects that use technology, storytelling, publishing and design to support and promote the Arabic language.
The event will conclude with Egyptian singer and songwriter Hamza Namira reflecting on his creative journey, followed by a live acoustic performance.
