The Abu Dhabi Language Centre is set to participate in the 79th edition of the international Avignon Theatre Festival, presenting a comprehensive cultural program that highlights the beauty of the Arabic language, literature, poetry, and the vibrant cultural and artistic heritage of the Arab world. This event will take place from July 5 to July 26, 2025, in the city located in southeastern France.
In collaboration with the Arab World Institute, a key strategic partner, the centre will showcase a diverse cultural agenda designed to allow French, European, and global audiences to explore the richness of Arabic literature, poetry, and music. The centre’s involvement is particularly significant as this year’s festival celebrates the Arabic language as its guest of honor, continuing a tradition that enhances its contribution to the global cultural landscape.
This year, the festival has chosen to honor the Arabic language in recognition of its esteemed status as a vehicle for culture, art, and creativity, shedding light on its vast literary and artistic legacy and its influence in shaping the global cultural scene.
As part of its participation, the centre will host a special event on July 14 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the passing of the legendary Arab singer Umm Kulthum. During this event, a book detailing her artistic career, prepared by the centre, will be released, allowing attendees to connect with her cultural and artistic legacy that transcends generations.
Moreover, on July 15, the centre will organize a poetry evening featuring a selection of prominent Arab poets, with a special focus on Emirati talents, reflecting the dynamic literary movement in the region.
Dr. Ali bin Tamim, head of the Abu Dhabi Language Centre, noted that the centre’s involvement in the Avignon Theatre Festival presents an opportunity for French and European audiences to discover the aesthetic qualities of the Arabic language and gain insights into its distinctive literary and cultural heritages, thereby enriching cultural exchange between peoples.
He highlighted that the Avignon Festival has established a prestigious standing since its inception by fostering arts as a medium of dialogue among cultures.
Dr. Tamim expressed his joy at the festival director’s description of the Arabic language – the honored guest of this year’s event – as a “language of light, dialogue, and knowledge,” which reflects a genuine understanding of the importance of the Arabic language and its culture and arts. This aligns with the Abu Dhabi Language Centre’s efforts to promote the significance and beauty of the Arabic language, enhancing its presence through literary and artistic creations as a superior means of dialogue and connection between cultures.
He praised the valuable contributions made by the Arab World Institute in Paris, the centre’s strategic partner.
Dr. Tamim remarked, “It is wonderful that this institute is led by someone who recognizes the value of Arabic, sharing our visions and ideas. Jacques Lang actively works towards restoring the Arabic language – which was one of France’s languages for over five centuries – to its significant role in public education. He is also the author of the influential book ‘Arabic: France’s Treasure,’ which narrates the history of the Arabic language and its immense contributions to the advancement of human civilization.”
Jacques Lang, chairman of the Arab World Institute in Paris, expressed his appreciation for the crucial role played by the Abu Dhabi Language Centre and its head, Dr. Ali bin Tamim, in promoting the Arabic language and enhancing its role in the dialogue of cultures.
He stated, “We share the vision and belief with the Abu Dhabi Language Centre that the Arabic language, with all its depth and beauty, is a bridge between people and a fountain of creativity that continues to inspire the world.”
Mr. Lang praised the exceptional program that the Abu Dhabi Language Centre will present in collaboration with the Arab World Institute at the international Avignon Theatre Festival 2025.
Notably, the activities of the institute and the centre will take place in two of the most significant venues of the Avignon Theatre Festival: the Cour Saint-Joseph Theatre and the Palais des Papes courtyard, emphasizing the importance of Arab culture and ensuring its prominence in this global event, reaching a wide audience.