Prominent Dubai billionaire Khalaf Al Habtoor has issued a stark warning about the deteriorating state of the Arabic language among Emirati youth, declaring the situation a “crisis” that requires immediate educational intervention. Speaking at the annual Al Habtoor Research Centre event at the V Hotel, the influential business leader revealed that even some of his own grandchildren no longer speak Arabic, highlighting the severity of the linguistic shift.
Al Habtoor characterized the declining proficiency in Arabic among young Emiratis as “dangerous,” noting that children are increasingly growing up speaking English daily. He called for schools to implement proper Arabic language instruction, particularly emphasizing that subjects like history and religion should not be taught exclusively in English. “Arabic is a great language. It’s the language of the Qur’an, a language we should be proud of,” he asserted, urging the Ministry of Education to consult with relevant stakeholders to address the issue.
The billionaire’s comments coincide with the expansion plans for the Al Habtoor Research Centre, the think tank he chairs under the Al Habtoor Group umbrella. While currently based in Cairo, the center will establish a new presence in Dubai with a focus on innovation and scientific research. The organization distinguishes itself through its ‘Early Warning’ Programme, which analyzes future geopolitical trends and assesses potential national risks.
Despite the concerning trends identified by Al Habtoor, the UAE has been actively implementing initiatives to revitalize Arabic language appreciation. These include the Mohammed bin Rashid Arabic Language Award, which recognizes contributions to Arabic promotion, and the Arabic Language Youth Council established in 2023 to make the language more relevant to younger generations.