Standard vs. Creative Audio Description in Arabic: A Reception Study on Accessibility and Engagement

This paper presents an exploratory study on the Arabic audio description in Arabic, a language in which media accessibility remains underdeveloped. While streaming platforms like Netflix have introduced AD for Arabic content, its availability is limited due to the lack of binding legislation and inconsistent provision. The study uses focus groups, in-depth interviews, and a reception study to discuss the AD of a film in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Lebanese dialect. The focus groups and interviews explore participants’ media consumption practices. The paper advocates participatory approaches in AD creation, involving blind and visually impaired individuals in script development. It also calls for multilingual AD options to address the diverse linguistic needs of Arabic-speaking audiences and promote inclusive media access.