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UAE to Introduce Comprehensive Arabic Language Law Impacting Businesses and Expats

The United Arab Emirates is preparing to implement its first comprehensive Arabic language law to protect and promote its national identity and cultural heritage. The landmark legislation will make it mandatory for private sector businesses in customer-facing roles to employ Arabic-speaking staff, marking a significant shift in a country where expatriates make up nearly 88 percent of the population.

Spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, the draft law targets ten key sectors, including government transactions, healthcare, education, media, and technology. Under the new regulations, all public advertisements, promotional campaigns, and conferences must feature Arabic or provide translation. In education, the law mandates higher standards for teaching Arabic from preschool to higher education, including minimum Arabic proficiency requirements for scientific majors.

This regulatory shift is expected to directly impact the expatriate workforce, particularly those in hospitality, healthcare, and customer service, where Arabic proficiency may become a mandatory job qualification. While the government plans to enforce strict fines for non-compliance, it will also offer incentives for businesses that actively promote the language.