Bilingual Typography in Globalized Middle East Culture: Study of the Linguistic Landscape of Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

• In Event: ICA Plenary Interactive Paper/Poster Session II
  In Interactive Paper Session: Language and Social Interaction Interactive Paper Session

Abstract

Abstract: With the rise of globalization and the spread of western culture throughout the globe, the use of English as an “international” language is often presented in bilingual and multilingual signage. Throughout the Middle East and Gulf region, the integration of Arabic and Latin letterforms is commonly viewed in storefronts, street signs, advertising billboards, and informational signage. This paper will explore the development of cultural globalization, by focusing on the use of bilingual/multilingual typography within the linguistic landscape of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Keywords: visual communication, bilingual typography, linguistic landscape, globalization

Author

• Shayna Blum, Xavier University of Louisiana