Globalization and Linguistic Identity: Vision 2030’s Impact on Bilingualism Among Saudi Youth

Abstract

While existing literature has addressed bilingualism and language policy in Saudi Arabia, few research studies have examined the everyday lives of young Saudis as they move across bilingualism, identity, and sociopolitical transformation under Vision 2030. Drawing on Bourdieu’s linguistic capital, Phillipson’s linguistic imperialism, and Canagarajah’s negotiated multilingualism, the present study aims to investigate how bilingualism and cultural identity are co-constructed among Saudi young people, the interplay of English and Arabic in daily life, and how Vision 2030 impacts these processes. Twenty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants aged 18 and older from urban centers (Riyadh, Jeddah) and non-urban regions (Al Qassim, Asir). Findings show that bilingualism is highly context-dependent: participants consistently associated Arabic with emotional authenticity and belonging, while English was compartmentalized to professional and academic domains, often under considerable social and financial pressure. Generational differences were pronounced, with older participants treating Arabic as heritage to be protected and younger participants treating language as a flexible, strategic tool. Rural participants maintained stronger Arabic dominance and reported a distinct pressure of feeling “left behind” rather than pressure to use English directly. Hybrid forms like Arabizi have arisen. The research recommends inclusive language policies that reflect regional and generational diversity.