Linguistic Landscape in Abha

Abstract

The current study explores the linguistic landscape in Abha, Saudi Arabia, by analyzing 408 signs in two areas: the traditional downtown area and modern shopping complexes. The results revealed a significant contrast in language use between the two areas, with Arabic dominating in the downtown area (83% of signs), while dropping to only 13.5% in modern complexes. Conversely, English-only signs increased from 0.7% in the downtown area to 32.5% in modern complexes. The study also showed widespread bilingualism and phonetic Arabization in modern complexes. These findings reflect the impact of globalization and socioeconomic transformations on the linguistic landscape, highlighting the need to maintain balance between preserving local cultural identity and embracing global communication. This suggests the need for balanced language policies that protect Arabic while meeting the requirements of global communication in an era of increasing internationalization and tourism development in Saudi Arabia.