The paper titled "Makkah is the Ultimate Multilingual Phenomenon" focuses on the unique multilingual environment of Makkah, especially during the religious events of Hajj and Umrah. The study aims to highlight Makkah as a prime example of a city where multilingualism and multiculturalism converge, primarily due to the influx of pilgrims from around the world. The research investigates two key aspects of multilingualism in Makkah: temporary multilingualism during the Hajj and permanent multilingualism observed during Umrah.
The study uses a descriptive research methodology, relying on government statistics and other published data to analyze the multilingual phenomena associated with these religious events. The Hajj is characterized as a temporary multilingual phenomenon, where millions of pilgrims from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds come together for a short period each year. In contrast, Umrah represents a permanent multilingual phenomenon, with pilgrims visiting Makkah throughout the year, maintaining a continuous diversity of languages and cultures.
Key findings of the study include the identification of significant linguistic diversity among pilgrims, with the most common languages spoken including Arabic, Urdu, English, and several others. The research also highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by this multilingual environment, particularly in areas such as communication, health services, transportation, and disaster management.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for further research into multilingualism outside educational settings, particularly in religious and cultural contexts like Makkah. It suggests that understanding and addressing the challenges of multilingualism in such environments is crucial for improving services and experiences for millions of pilgrims. The study also proposes a research agenda that includes exploring communication strategies, cultural integration, and the interaction between major and minor languages in multilingual settings. The findings underscore the significance of Makkah as a global example of a multilingual city, with implications for both academic research and practical applications in managing large, diverse populations.