Arabic in a Changing World: Who Will Write the Next Story?

Abstract

This paper examines the prospective trajectory of the Arabic language amid accelerating global transformations. It pursues three primary objectives: first, to identify the principal stakeholders shaping the future of Arabic; second, to analyze the interplay between conservative, innovative, and transnational narratives; and third, to assess the role of technology - particularly artificial intelligence - as either an ally or a potential threat in Arabic language learning. The study adopts a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) grounded in a qualitative descriptive approach, drawing upon contemporary literature published between 2018 and 2025 in accredited national and influential international journals. The analysis reveals three interwoven forces: traditional institutions safeguarding linguistic authenticity, innovative educators leveraging digital platforms, and transnational networks influencing Arabic discourse on a global scale. Artificial intelligence emerges as a double-edged sword, simultaneously broadening accessibility while posing the risk of eroding cultural richness. The study critically discusses the power dynamics among these actors and raises provocative questions regarding who ultimately shapes the narrative of Arabic’s future. It concludes with strategic recommendations for policy, curriculum design, and technological development to ensure the relevance, sustainability, and global impact of the Arabic language in the twenty-first century.