DUBAI// Almost two million small books packed with common Emirati Arabic phases have been handed out to the public as part of a campaign to mark Arabic Language Day on Sunday.
The project was launched by language training centre the Eton Institute at the beginning of December to mark National Day.
Since then, people of all backgrounds and nationalities have benefited from the 16-page booklets.
“The phrasebook initiative is our way of introducing those who may have a casual or passing interest to the richness and depth of the language in a conveniently accessible manner while supporting the overarching vision of the UAE,” said Mark Abi-Aad, corporate manager at Eton Institute.
The booklets were distributed through the institute’s local and international learning partners that recognise the importance of the Emirates cultural heritage.
These included Dubai Police, Carrefour, Jumeirah Group, Meydan Hotels, Emirates Driving Institute, Choithrams Supermarkets and Gems Schools across the country.
The Eton Institute’s focus is on the use of practical and natural language and as such the phrasebooks contain everything from greetings, the basics such as “yes”, “no”, “thank you”, to making friends, questions and topics of conversation.
The English words and phrases are transliterated into the Emirati dialect along with the Arabic script.
It was vital for Arabic to be kept alive in the UAE and the campaign follows on from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, UAE Vice-President and Ruler of Dubai, desire for the language to flourish as part of Vision 2021, he said.
“With widespread initiatives such as the Arabic Language Charter, 2016: The Year of Reading and the formation of an International Arabic Language Expert Committee, His Highness wishes to encourage the people of the country to expand their Arabic language knowledge and practice,” said Mr Abi-Aad.
“Initiatives like those of His Highness underscore and recognise that culture and language are intimately tied together with national identity, and it is important to not lose these - especially in a country that is home to so many people from across the world.”
As well as the books Eton Institute also hosts free cultural evenings that and are offering discounts on a range of Arabic courses in celebration of World Arabic Language Day.
“We understand the rising cultural diversity in the region and this initiative is in line with our unending commitment to support understanding and appreciation among multicultural communities,” said Maya Mazloum, learning and development manager at Eton Institute.
“It is certainly an honour to support the nation in this unique way.
“With the 45th UAE National Day and World Arabic Day, our objective is to inspire tourists as well as residents to enhance their cultural awareness of their host country.”
nhanif@thenational.ae