Arabic Language Law to Define Usage Standards in UAE by 2027

An Arabic Language Law is set to be introduced in the United Arab Emirates between 2026 and 2027, establishing a legal framework to strengthen the use of Arabic across sectors. The roadmap was presented by the Ministry of Culture to the Federal National Council, positioning the protection and promotion of Arabic as a national priority alongside broader development policies.
The proposed law will define standards and obligations for the use of Arabic across public and private sectors, supported by executive regulations aimed at reinforcing its presence in education, media and cultural production. Alongside the legislation, a series of initiatives is scheduled between 2026 and 2027. These include a national reading roadmap, cultural programmes targeting children and families, and upgrades to cultural centres, as well as projects focused on documenting and promoting Arabic language and heritage.
Recent measures include the development of national indicators to track Arabic usage, the launch of a national identity strategy centred on the language, and the establishment of governance structures through a national identity committee. A feasibility study for the law has also been completed, alongside strategies to support the literary and arts sectors.
Internationally, Arabic promotion efforts have included the registration of Arabic calligraphy with UNESCO and continued support for initiatives such as the Al Burdah Award.
The planned legislation builds on more than a decade of language-focused initiatives, including the Arabic Language Charter in 2012, the National Reading Law in 2016, and subsequent policies supporting Arabic content across media and education.