Classic literary works, by a variety of global authors, are being translated for Arabic readers in a bid to revive the translation movement in the Arabic world, and to support the vibrant cultural community in Abu Dhabi.
The translations are undertaken by a non-profit initiative based in Abu Dhabi called ‘Kalima’. They fund, translate, publish and distribute high quality works of both classic, and contemporary writing from other languages in to Arabic.
The project was launched in 2007 by his highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan with the aim of boosting the regions contributions to the international cultural landscape.
Kalima was developed because very few foreign works were being translated into Arabic which produced a knowledge and culture gap that the initiative aimed to close. Their objective is to spread learning, understanding and respect for literary traditions and cultures from around the globe to the Arabic speaking world.
Kalima, meaning ‘word’ in Arabic, have translated over 900 titles so far, including works by Geoffrey Chaucer, Thomas Hobbes, and Tony Robinson to name just a few. Books have been translated from more than 13 languages including English, French and Italian, and include a variety of genres such as, Children’s Literature, History, Art, Science and Philosophy among many others.
Kalima state that they aim to translate 100 titles each year in all fields of knowledge, establishing a database for Arab translators and providing them with institutional support. They also wish to support and develop “the book translation industry in the Arab world and promoting it internationally as well as acting as the catalyst for unifying the scattered efforts made in this industry” according to their website.
The project is led by a team that includes the Acting Director of the National Library Department, Director of the National Library Programme Management Department and Director of the Kalima project along with a Judgement Committee.
Additionally, the Science committee consists of ten members of translation specialists and experts, taking into account multidisciplinary and multilingual aspects
Kalima are also linked to the Abu Dhabi International Translation Conference which is organised by DCT Abu Dhabi. The Conference aims to emphasise the role of translation in building bridges between nations, develop the abilities of young translators, support the next generation to continue the advancement of transferring culture, science and arts from and into Arabic, as well as preparing qualified translators in the field of scientific translation.
Kalima books can be purchased on the Dar Alkutub website or through the Dar Alkutub application in Apple Store or Google Play, at sales centres in the UAE, or through distributors in the Arab world and Europe.
Translators who are keen to assist with the project can contact Kalima directly to offer their services. They can also suggest titles for future translation and publication which go before the Executive Board for assessment, but they must be sent in with a sample of 5 – 10 pages already translated into Arabic, a summary of the book and its perceived importance.
