Recent Research Sheds Light on Language Display in UAE Educational Settings
A newly published study explores linguistic visibility and multilingual representation in an international school in Dubai, providing valuable perspectives on how languages appear in educational environments across the United Arab Emirates. The research, titled "Linguistic visibility and multilingual representation in a UAE schoolscape," appears in the Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development. It examines the alignment between visible languages in the school environment and the diverse linguistic backgrounds of students.
The study employs a mixed-methods case study approach, combining observations of physical signage, documents, and displays with interviews and surveys involving students and staff. Researchers focused on one international school in Dubai to capture detailed patterns of language use in public and classroom spaces.
Key Findings on English Dominance and Limited Visibility of Other Languages
Results reveal a pronounced dominance of English throughout the schoolscape. English appears on the majority of signs, notices, and materials in common areas, hallways, and administrative zones. Arabic and additional languages receive far less representation, often restricted to dedicated language classrooms or specific cultural displays.
Student multilingual repertoires, which frequently include Arabic, English, and other home languages, do not fully match the languages on display. This mismatch highlights potential gaps in how educational spaces reflect the linguistic diversity of the community.
The research marks the first empirical investigation of its kind into a United Arab Emirates schoolscape, contributing to broader discussions on linguistic inequality and symbolic inclusion in educational contexts.
Photo by Emma Harrisova on Unsplash
Implications for Language Policy and Practice in UAE Institutions
While the study centers on a school setting, its observations carry relevance for universities and colleges in the United Arab Emirates. Institutions of higher education in the country often navigate similar dynamics between Arabic as the national language, English as a medium of instruction in many programs, and the multilingual realities of international and Emirati students.
University administrators may consider how signage, websites, and campus materials can better acknowledge linguistic diversity. Enhanced visibility for Arabic alongside English could support cultural identity and inclusion, particularly in environments serving large expatriate populations.
The findings encourage reflection on whether current displays adequately represent the full range of languages spoken by students and faculty.
Broader Context of Multilingualism in UAE Higher Education
The United Arab Emirates has positioned itself as a hub for international education, with universities such as the American University of Sharjah and others attracting diverse student bodies. Language policies in these institutions balance national priorities with global academic standards.
Multilingualism remains a defining feature of UAE society, shaped by its expatriate workforce and educational internationalization. Studies like this one underscore the importance of aligning visible language practices with actual community repertoires to foster belonging and effective communication.
Related research in the region, including explorations of linguistic landscapes in neighboring Oman, shows comparable patterns of English prominence in academic settings.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Stakeholder Perspectives and Potential Pathways Forward
Educators and policymakers in the UAE can draw on the study's insights to review existing language display strategies. Involving students in discussions about schoolscape design may help create more representative environments.
Universities could pilot initiatives such as multilingual welcome materials, signage in multiple languages, or digital platforms that highlight linguistic diversity. These steps align with national goals for inclusive education while supporting the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based economy.
Faculty and researchers at institutions like the American University of Sharjah, where one of the study's authors is affiliated, are well placed to extend this work into higher education contexts.
Future Outlook for Research and Practice
This study opens avenues for further investigation into university-specific schoolscapes across the Emirates. Comparative work between schools and higher education institutions could reveal consistent challenges and innovative solutions.
As the UAE continues to expand its higher education sector, attention to linguistic visibility offers a practical lens for enhancing student experience and institutional identity.
Ongoing dialogue among educators, administrators, and linguists will help translate these findings into actionable improvements.
