By Geralde Vincent-Bancroft
How the Arabic Language Has Influenced the World
Did you know that the Arabic language, with its rich history and complex beauty, has been a silent yet powerful force shaping global cultures, languages, and even the way we think? Whether you’ve noticed it or not, Arabic has left its mark on the world in ways that go beyond words. From science to art, trade to religion, the impact of Arabic is as widespread as it is fascinating.
Here’s how this ancient language has contributed to the world we live in today.

A Brief History of the Arabic Language
The Arabic language originated over 1,500 years ago in the Arabian Peninsula and has since become one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with more than 400 million native speakers today. It holds a sacred status as the language of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, which is read and recited by over 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide.
But Arabic’s influence wasn’t limited to religion. Over centuries, it traveled alongside trade routes, conquering empires, and scholarly pursuits, weaving itself into the cultural, intellectual, and linguistic landscapes of regions far beyond its origins.
The Arabic Footprint on Global Languages
One of the most tangible ways Arabic has left its mark is in vocabulary. Words of Arabic origin have seeped into many other languages, enriching their lexicons while telling a story of cultural exchange.
Spanish
Take a look at Spanish, a language with thousands of Arabic loanwords thanks to almost 800 years of Arabic influence during the Islamic Moorish rule of Al-Andalus (present-day Spain and Portugal). Did you know these everyday Spanish words come from Arabic?
- Almohada (pillow)—from the Arabic “mihaddah”
- Ojalá (hopefully)—a derivative of “in sha’ Allah” (if God wills)
- Aceituna (olive)—from “zaytūn”
- Almendra (almond)—from “al-maṇdah”
Every time you hear a Spaniard say “ojalá,” you’re hearing echoes of Arabic-speaking Moors from centuries ago.
English
English has borrowed from Arabic, too, often through intermediaries like French, Spanish, or Latin. For example:
- Algebra (from “al-jabr”): A foundational term in mathematics brought to Europe through Arab scholars.
- Admiral (from “amir al-bahr,” or commander of the sea): A term highlighting Arabic’s naval innovations.
- Coffee (from “qahwa”): The drink the world can’t live without today owes its name to Arabic!
Swahili
On the East African coast, Arabic mingled with local Bantu languages to give birth to Swahili, a lingua franca of the region. Even today, about 30% of Swahili vocabulary comes from Arabic, such as:
- Salaam (peace)
- Kitabu (book)
- Safari (journey)
Urdu
Urdu, one of the predominant languages of South Asia, has been heavily influenced by Arabic vocabulary, often introduced through Persian during Muslim rule in the region. Words like ilm (knowledge), kitab (book), and zindagi (life) reflect the Arabic origins.
Arabic’s Impact on Science, Art, and Culture
Arabic’s influence isn’t just limited to vocabulary; it has shaped disciplines, traditions, and global thought itself. The Islamic Golden Age (8th–13th centuries) serves as a shining example of how Arabic became the language of knowledge, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Science and Medicine
Arabic scholars preserved, translated, and expanded upon Greek, Roman, and Indian texts. The result? Major leaps in medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and chemistry. Names like:
- Avicenna (Ibn Sina): A pioneer in medicine and the author of “The Canon of Medicine,” which was used in European universities for centuries.
- Al-Khwarizmi: Known as the “father of algebra” and the one who introduced the concept of zero to Europe through his writings.
Even words like alchemy and elixir hail from the Arabic al-kimiya and al-iksir.
Literature and Poetry
Arabic poetry and storytelling have had a profound influence on global literature. The famous collection of Middle Eastern folk tales, “One Thousand and One Nights” (Alf Layla wa-Layla), introduced characters like Aladdin and Sindbad to the world. Its themes of magic, adventure, and human morality have inspired countless authors and filmmakers.
Art and Architecture
Arabic calligraphy is an art form in itself, combining linguistic beauty with intricate design. You’ll see it adorning mosques, palaces, and manuscripts worldwide. Moorish architectural elements, such as intricate geometric patterns, domes, and courtyards, have influenced buildings far beyond the Islamic world.
Music
Arabic music, with its unique scales and vibrant rhythms, has shaped the development of many musical traditions, from flamenco in Spain to the melodies of North Africa and the Middle East. Instruments like the oud (a type of lute) and qanun are ancestors to the modern guitar and piano.
Trade and Commerce
Arabic also played a key role in the development of global trade. During the Middle Ages, Arabic acted as the primary language for conducting business across the Silk Road, Arabian Sea, and Mediterranean. This linguistic dominance allowed merchants from vastly different cultures to communicate effectively, exchange goods, and build the systems of commerce we know today.
Even financial terms like tariff (from “ta‘rifah”) and monopoly (linked to “munfarid”) remind us of Arabic’s role in shaping the vocabulary of economics.
Arabic in the Modern World
Today, Arabic remains influential, serving as one of the six official languages of the United Nations. It’s the language of diplomacy, education, and cultural diplomacy in the Arab world and beyond.
Digital platforms and apps have made learning Arabic more accessible than ever, creating new opportunities for people to connect with this rich and timeless language.
Why Arabic’s Influence Matters Today
Understanding Arabic’s contributions to world history helps bridge cultural divides. It highlights shared human achievements and encourages mutual respect between communities. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee or calculating your finances, Arabic plays a silent but significant role in your daily life.
Final Thoughts
The Arabic language is more than just a medium of communication; it’s a living testament to human ingenuity, cultural exchange, and the interconnectedness of civilizations. From influencing science and literature to enriching our daily vocabulary, its contributions are far-reaching and enduring.
If you’re inspired by Arabic’s incredible legacy, why not learn more about the language itself? You might gain not just a tool for communication but also a deeper appreciation for the culture that has shaped so much of the modern world. After all, as the Arabic proverb says, “Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave.”
What’s your favourite way Arabic has impacted the world? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear them!