Jeddah: For over six decades since its founding in 1386 AH, the Arabic Language Institute for Non-Native Speakers at the Islamic University of Madinah has been a pivotal academic center for spreading the Arabic language worldwide and training qualified educators. Initially established as the Department of Teaching Language to Non-Arabs to prepare non-native students for university studies, the institute's name was updated in 1422 AH. Today, it continues its distinguished mission by aligning its educational and training programs with Saudi Vision 2030's goals of developing human capabilities, strengthening national identity, and promoting Arabic globally.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the institute's extensive contributions include supervising over 350 academic dissertations, publishing 180 specialized scientific research papers, and implementing more than 60 training programs benefiting some 3,000 trainees. Its global impact and excellence were formally recognized with a Guinness World Record in 2022 for the largest diversity of nationalities studying Arabic in one place, alongside programmatic accreditation in 2024 and a university-level Volunteer Work Award.
Abdulkarim Yusuf Alawi, a graduate from Tanzania, stated that he now teaches Arabic in his community after starting with no prior knowledge, crediting the institute for his transformation and support.