Sharjah: H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Sharjah International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Linguistics (SICAL) 2024 at the American University of Sharjah (AUS) on Thursday. The event, attended by key figures in government and academia, focuses on merging artificial intelligence with linguistic studies to address current and future challenges in the field. According to Emirates News Agency, the ceremony commenced with the UAE national anthem, followed by speeches from H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS. The ruler emphasized the critical role of artificial intelligence in modern scientific research and its potential to significantly advance linguistic studies and applications. He highlighted Sharjah's initiatives in supporting AI research, particularly in the Arabic language, and mentioned the completion of the Historic Dictionary of the Arab ic Language, a significant contribution to Arabic lexicography comprised of 127 volumes. In his keynote address, H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi described the integration of AI with linguistic endeavors as a pivotal step for academic and technological progress. He stressed the importance of this integration in overcoming the challenges posed by rapid advancements in AI and its applications globally. The ruler also pointed out the enhanced opportunities for global communication and societal advancement that arise from these technological strides. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, in her speech, detailed the conference's agenda, which includes discussions on AI's impact on language and cultural identity. She emphasized the need for responsible innovation that protects linguistic and cultural heritage in the face of emerging AI technologies. Her speech also underscored the collective responsibility of preserving linguistic identity amid technological advancements, and she lauded the AUS's eff orts in promoting Arabic language studies in the digital age. The two-day conference, organized in collaboration with the Emirates Scholar Center for Research and Studies, features over 50 speakers and includes more than 20 workshops. It aims to foster dialogue on ethical AI use, leadership in AI integration, and the exploration of innovative AI applications in linguistics and culture. The event has attracted 1,000 participants, including global experts, government officials, and industry leaders, who will share insights and strategies for advancing AI technologies responsibly.