Linguistic landscape and multilingualism in tourist destinations: a sociolinguistic analysis

Abstract

Purpose

This site-based study employed a sociolinguistic approach to investigate the linguistic landscape and multilingualism displayed on signs in Marib, a historical and tourist city in Yemen. The study focused on the types and functions of these signs, as well as people's perceptions of the status quo of the linguistic landscape.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods approach was used to collect data. Signs in tourist areas were photographed, and subsequent semi-structured interviews were conducted with relevant individuals to achieve the study's objectives.

Findings

The results revealed that both multilingual and monolingual signs coexist, with multilingual signs being more prevalent. Multilingual signs, which were official (top-down), served informational and symbolic functions, while monolingual signs, which were informal (bottom-up), served purely informational purposes. Bilingual signs were not present at the research sites. Interviewees generally expressed their satisfaction with multilingualism, as both national (Arabic and Musnad) and international (English) languages coexisted. However, they highlighted a deficiency in the number of signs at the research sites.

Practical implications

This study suggested intensifying efforts to include more signs, augmented with QR codes, to convey an appealing image of the linguistic landscape and provide visitors with information about these sites. Exposing students to the linguistic landscape can significantly enhance their English learning.

Originality/value

This study contributes to existing literature by providing further insights into the linguistic landscape in tourist destinations in Marib city. It offers the local and global community a better understanding of why and how the linguistic landscape should be improved and presented more appropriately.

Citation

Al-Sofi, B.B.M.A. (2024), "Linguistic landscape and multilingualism in tourist destinations: a sociolinguistic analysis", Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCHMSD-02-2024-0034