Wednesday, 25 March 2026
Saudi Arabia has formally adopted the “National Arabic Language Policy” following approval by the Council of Ministers, marking a shift in how Arabic is positioned across public and private life. The move reflects a broader national direction that places the Arabic language at the centre of cultural identity, governance and business activity in the Kingdom.
The policy goes beyond administrative guidance and aligns with wider efforts to reinforce cultural identity amid increasing globalisation. As Saudi Arabia has deepened its integration into the global economy, concerns have emerged over the growing reliance on English and its potential impact on national identity. In response, the new framework reaffirms Arabic as a core element of social and cultural life. While Arabic has long been embedded in the Kingdom’s legal and institutional systems, the policy introduces a unified set of guiding principles for public, private and non-profit entities, rather than functioning as a standalone enforcement mechanism. Its stated aim is to strengthen linguistic sovereignty while influencing how organisations communicate and operate.
For businesses, the policy signals a clear expectation that Arabic should play a central role in market engagement. Companies entering Saudi Arabia are expected to give due consideration to the use of Arabic when presenting products and services. Working with licensed translation providers and localisation specialists is seen as a practical step to ensure compliance with cultural, legal and linguistic requirements, while also supporting effective market positioning.
The importance of Arabic is already reflected in existing legislation. Proficiency in the language is a requirement for individuals seeking Saudi nationality under Royal Will No. (5604/20/8) dated 22/2/1374H. Council of Ministers Resolution No. (266) dated 21/2/1398H requires foreign companies operating in the Kingdom to use Arabic in correspondence with government authorities, with penalties for non-compliance. High Orders issued in 1980 and 1988 reinforce the mandatory use of Arabic in official communications and adherence to its linguistic rules, while a 2012 High Order establishes that Arabic versions of bilingual international agreements carry equal legal weight.
Although the policy allows the use of other languages where necessary, particularly in technical or international contexts, it establishes Arabic as the principal language for governmental, administrative and business activities. In practice, this means that where another language is used, Arabic is typically required alongside it, and many authorities mandate that documents be submitted in Arabic or accompanied by certified translations.
The framework is built around several core principles that emphasise Arabic as a foundation of national identity and institutional practice. It confirms Arabic as the official language for public entities, with other languages used only as a supplement where required. It also encourages private and non-profit organisations to prioritise Arabic in communications and documentation. In a commercial context, the policy promotes the integration of Arabic across administrative processes, correspondence, recruitment and broader business functions, positioning it as a strategic asset. It also calls for greater visibility of Arabic in everyday settings, including contracts, signage, advertising, certificates and events.
For businesses currently operating in or entering the Saudi market, the policy highlights the need for a review of how Arabic is used across operations. This includes contractual documentation, customer-facing materials, internal communications, digital platforms and interactions with public authorities. Companies in regulated sectors or those with close links to government entities may be more directly affected as implementation progresses. Monitoring further guidance and sector-specific measures will be important, as will taking early steps to align with the evolving framework in order to reduce compliance risks and support smoother engagement with regulators and stakeholders.
Source: CMS
