The role of artificial intelligence tools in mediating Sino-Arab cultural exchanges through intercultural translation

Abstract This study investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in enhancing Sino-Arab cultural exchanges through intercultural translation, focusing specifically on Arabic-Chinese and Chinese-Arabic translations. It evaluates various factors, including accuracy, reliability, speed, usability, and user trust in AI-powered translation technologies, while addressing their impact on intercultural communication and the preservation of cultural nuances. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys from 120 students with qualitative interviews from 20 participants. Findings reveal a high level of user satisfaction regarding the speed, ease of use, and accuracy of AI tools such as ChatGPT and DeepL, particularly for routine translation tasks. Nevertheless, challenges were observed in translating idiomatic expressions and cultural nuances, prompting users to make manual adjustments to the translated texts. Trust in AI tools was notably strong for everyday use; however, concerns emerged regarding their reliability in high-stakes contexts, such as academic and professional settings. The findings suggest that AI tools can play a transformative role in enhancing translation efficiency. Nonetheless, their limitations in managing cultural sensitivity and nuanced contexts highlight the necessity for human intervention. This study underscores the importance of advancing the cultural intelligence of AI systems to foster a deeper intercultural understanding and integration into educational and professional environments.