Arabic is a global language of great importance. It is spoken in twenty-two countries and by hundreds of millions of people. It also holds deep religious significance for Muslims around the world. At the same time, it serves as a key language in international institutions such as the United Nations and the Arab League.
The Department of Arabic at the University of the Punjab is the oldest department of the University. Its origins go back to 1870, even before the formal establishment of the University in 1882. From the beginning, Arabic was valued as a language of learning, culture and intellectual life. Postgraduate teaching began in 1880. It was led by the distinguished scholar Maulana Faiz-ul-Hasan Saharanpuri. His scholarship and vision shaped the early character of the Department. That influence continues to this day.
The Department takes pride in its association with Allama Muhammad Iqbal who served here as Macleod Arabic Reader. His presence reflects the deep link between Arabic studies and questions of thought, identity and civilization. The eminent scholar Maulana Abdul Aziz Memani also contributed significantly to the Department. Over the years, many distinguished scholars have taught here. These include Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah Tonki, Dr Azeemuddin Ahmad, Dr Moulvi Muhammad Shafi, Dr Barkat Ali Qureshi, Dr Sheikh Inayatullah, Dr Syed Abdullah, Dr Rana Muhammad Nasrullah, Dr Ahsan Elahi, Dr Aminullah Waseer, Dr Zulfiqar Ali Malik, Dr Zahoor Ahmad Azhar, Dr Mubariz Malik, Dr Muhammad Akram Chaudhry, Prof Syed Muhammad Kabir Ahmad Mazhar, Dr Dost Muhammad Shakir, Dr Mazhar Moeen and Dr Khaliqdad Malik.
Scholars from the Arab world have also contributed to the Department. Among them are Professor Muhammad al-Marrakshi, Dr Abdullah Yahya al-Saudi and Rajab Shazli al-Masri.
The Department aims to promote excellence in teaching and research. It trains students in the language as well as in Arab history, literature and culture. Its graduates are equipped to build strong links between Pakistan and the Arab world. They contribute to scholarship, diplomacy, and cultural exchange.
The Department also publishes a biannual research journal, Majallat al-Qism al-Arabi, recognized by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan.
For over a century, the Department has upheld a clear vision. Studying Arabic is not only about language. Rather, it is about engaging with a rich intellectual and cultural tradition.