COMING as a surprise to many people, Liverpool has one of Britain’s oldest Arab communities and Arabic is the second most spoken language in the city. 

Founded in 1998, the central purpose of Liverpool Arab Arts Festival is to reflect both the culture and traditions emanating from the Arab community and to assist in creating positivity. Now, over 25 years on, the festival has become central to the city’s artistic offering and is the longest running Arab Arts Festival in the UK with events focusing on both international as well as local artists and performers. 

Laura Brown, a communications specialist and creative producer who supports the festival, emphasises that as well as involving local participants, the festival champions creatives from across the Arab region and its diaspora.