Translation from Chinese to Arabic as a Cultural Bridge: A Comparative Exploratory Study of the Role of Translation in Enhancing the Objectives of Teaching Chinese in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This study aims to explore the relationship between teaching Chinese as an additional foreign language in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and enriching the translation movement from Chinese to Arabic. This exploration is based on the results of a field study that included a sample of parents of students learning Chinese. A mixed quantitative and qualitative research methodology was employed, where data were collected from students and their parents in two stages through questionnaires and statistical analysis using the SPSS program. The results indicated a very high level of interest among parents of students in the Chinese language and culture, with an arithmetic mean of 4.42 and a relative weight of 88.4%. Teaching Chinese significantly increased interest in Chinese literature and arts, supporting the Chinese-to-Arabic translation movement by 99.1% (simple linear regression: β = 0.991, p < 0.001). Additionally, translation from Chinese to Arabic was crucial in achieving the goals of Chinese language education in Saudi Arabia (mean = 4.44, relative weight = 88.8%). The results did not show statistically significant differences between participants' responses based on gender, educational level, or age group, indicating equal interest among different segments of Saudi society in learning the Chinese language and culture and enhancing translation between the two languages. Based on these results, The study recommends increasing Chinese teaching hours, establishing specialized translation centers, encouraging publishers to translate Chinese works, organizing student exchange programs with Chinese schools, regularly hosting Chinese cultural events in Saudi Arabia, and providing additional educational materials on Chinese culture and history. These initiatives aim to improve Chinese language learning and deepen cultural and intellectual exchange between Saudi Arabia and China, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification and stronger international partnerships. The results of this study contribute valuable insights into the relationship between language learning and the enhancement of the translation movement, supporting the development of educational and cultural strategies that contribute to achieving sustainable cultural and economic exchange between Saudi Arabia and China.