Sharjah Hosts First International Conference on AI and Linguistics

Sharjah: The first Sharjah International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Linguistics, hosted by the American University of Sharjah in collaboration with the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, concluded today. The event, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, successfully gathered over 600 academics, researchers, and industry experts who presented 100 papers and conducted 20 workshops focused on AI and language studies. According to Emirates News Agency, the conference aimed to explore the role of AI in enhancing global communication while preserving cultural and linguistic diversity. It highlighted the transformative impact of AI on linguistic studies and communication practices. Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, emphasized the conference's significance in boosting Sharjah's stature as a research hub. He acknowledged the Center's commitment to integrating AI wi th linguistic studies, promoting international collaboration, and preserving cultural identity, extending gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi for their support. The conference featured notable speakers including Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Egypt's Minister of Culture, and Ashraf El-Shihy, Egypt's former Minister of Higher Education. International figures like Lorenzo Fanara, Italy's Ambassador to the UAE, and Imed Zitouni from Google also participated, discussing the role of AI in education, technology, and culture. Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, commended the event and highlighted AUS's dedication to pioneering research and fostering global collaborations. Sessions at the conference covered themes such as AI's impact on communication, linguistics, and cultural identity. Topics discussed included AI advancements in communication tools, the Holy Quran language program, and AI's role in cultural translation and language learning. The Emirates Scholar Center for Research an d Studies signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Badr University in Egypt and the Abjjad Platform, aiming to enhance research collaboration, knowledge exchange, and academic cooperation. Abdulaziz Almusallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, expressed concerns about AI's potential to stifle creativity, especially among younger generations. He called for cultural institutions to ensure factual accuracy and reduce reliance on AI. The conference also witnessed the launch of the digital and GPT editions of the Historical Arabic Dictionary, a key initiative in preserving the Arabic language through AI-driven research. Dr. Fawaz Habbal, Director-General of Emirates Scholar Center, highlighted the conference's role in fostering research collaboration and developing initiatives to tackle digital challenges. Dr. Firas Habbal, President of the Center, reiterated its commitment to shaping AI's role in linguistics through global collaboration. Key recommendations from the conference included e nhancing engagement through interactive tools, practical workshops, and publishing a special issue in a peer-reviewed journal based on the event's research. Participants also suggested exploring AI's intersection with psychology, education, and history. Participants expressed their gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi for his support, praising his dedication to knowledge, culture, and research.