Mapping Translation of Saudi Literature into English for Sustainable Cultural Impact and Global Visibility

Saudi literature represents a significant component of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage. However, its global visibility remains limited due to fragmented translation practices and inadequate systematic documentation. This study maps the contribution of English translations of Saudi literary works in terms of their visibility, sustainability, and cultural impact within the international literary landscape. The mixed-methods approach adopted in this study integrates bibliometric analysis of 300 English translations of Saudi works with qualitative data sourced from translators, publishers, academics, and international readers represented through publicly available reader reviews and online responses. The analysis examines the bibliometric mapping of Saudi literary translation (e.g. publication trends, genre distribution, visibility indicators, and inclusion in university curricula). Results demonstrate substantial increase in translation activity after 2016 accounting for 43.0% of total translations, reflecting enhanced cultural investment in tune with Saudi Vision 2030. Despite this growth, notable imbalances persist with novels comprising 56.7% of translated works, while poetry and drama remain underrepresented. Institutionally funded translations exhibit significantly higher visibility, achieving an average of 14.2 citations per work, compared with 5.6 for non-funded publications. Digital dissemination aids international community’s engagement, with print-digital publications demonstrating substantially greater readership impact than print-only editions. Comparative regional analysis indicates strong growth in Saudi literary translation relative to regional countries, while also highlighting the need for coordinated policy frameworks and sustained institutional support. The study findings contribute to evidence-based cultural planning, support sustainable translation practices and carve the path for global visibility of Saudi literature through structured documentation and strategic dissemination.