English abstract
This thesis examines the role of language as an instrument of soft power, with a focus
on the Sultanate of Oman's efforts in promoting its values, culture, and traditions as a
manifestation of the non-coercive methods in its diplomacy. The thesis follows a
qualitative case study approach, focusing on Oman's language-related soft power
strategies, such as teaching Arabic language to non-natives, providing scholarships for
foreign students and offering research fellowships through academic chairs. The thesis
data have been collected from interviews with key stakeholders as a primary source,
as well as secondary sources including, official documents, books, journals, websites,
and news articles.
The study reveals that language plays a vital role in wielding soft power and can be
used to promote a nation's image internationally. In the case of the Sultanate of Oman,
the thesis discusses how Arabic language is being used by Sultan Qaboos University,
Sultan Qaboos Institute for Teaching Arabic to Non-Native Speakers and Sultan
Qaboos Academic Chairs to foster Oman's soft power. However, challenges still exist
in the well-organized application of these initiatives.
The findings of this thesis contribute to a clearer understanding of language's role as a
soft power instrument and offer a framework to foster the language-related soft power
tools. This framework includes developing a national strategy for language-related
soft power tools, creating a robust language policy, fostering cooperation among local
stakeholders and establishing civil society institutions on Arabic language teaching.
This thesis is expected to lead to further discussion on soft power tools used by
Sultanate of Oman, promote the it as a key destination for learning Arabic to non-natives, and contribute to the enhancement of its soft power through language.
