Research Article

A Conversational Analysis of Opening and Closing Sequences in Saudi Podcasts: A Case Study of the Waddah Podcast

Authors

  • Hasan Alalmay Assistant Professor, King Khalid University, College of Arts and Humanities, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This study examines how conversational openings and closings are structured linguistically in Arabic-language podcasts in Saudi Arabia, focusing specifically on the Waddah podcast. Using Conversation Analysis (CA) and cultural pragmatics, the research analyses how hosts start and end podcast episodes within the norms of Saudi Islamic culture, language practices and social relationships. Ten podcast episodes were transcribed and analysed in both Arabic and English. The results reveal ritualised conversational patterns that include religious phrases, formal greetings, praise for guests and communal farewells. Common expressions such as ‘Bismillah’, ‘Marhaban alf’ and ‘Fi Aman Allah’ do not simply mark sections of conversation, but rather, they reflect deeper cultural values such as spiritual intentions, hospitality and community bonding. The findings show that opening and closing conversations in Saudi podcasts go beyond managing conversational turns; they also establish moral positions, foster audience connection and promote social harmony. This study adds to the limited research on Arabic digital communication and expands CA theory by applying it in non-Western, culturally rich contexts.

Article information

Journal

International Journal of Linguistics, Literature and Translation

Volume (Issue)

8 (7)

Pages

114-127

Published

2025-07-25

How to Cite

Alalmay, H. (2025). A Conversational Analysis of Opening and Closing Sequences in Saudi Podcasts: A Case Study of the Waddah Podcast. International Journal of Linguistics, Literature and Translation, 8(7), 114-127. https://doi.org/10.32996/ijllt.2025.8.7.13

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Keywords:

Conversation Analysis, Arabic podcasts, Saudi discourse, openings and closings, pragmatics, religious language, podcast interaction