Middle East Translators Face Challenges, But Resilience and Adaptability Prevail

Despite a dip in positive sentiment and economic uncertainty, Middle East translators are demonstrating resilience and adaptability, with 63% onboarding new clients and 57% maintaining consistent earnings.

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The Autumn 2023 Pulse Survey conducted by the International Translation Institute (ITI) reveals that only 38% of translators express positive sentiment about their work and future prospects, the lowest level since the start of the pandemic. This suggests that the translation industry in the Middle East faces significant challenges.

Despite this, the survey also highlights the resilience and adaptability of translators in the region. 63% of members have successfully onboarded new clients in the past six months, and 57% have maintained consistent earnings. This indicates that, despite the difficulties, many translators are finding ways to adapt and thrive.

Other key findings from the survey for Middle East translators:

• Work Volume: 46% of members have experienced a decrease in work volume from existing clients.

• Adapting to Economic Challenges: Many translators are diversifying their client portfolios, seeking supplementary work, or reducing working hours to cope with economic hurdles. This is especially relevant for those working in sectors such as tourism or trade, which have been impacted by the pandemic.

• Generative AI: 83% of translators have not incorporated AI into their workflow, but those who have are using it for tasks like idea generation, content summarization, and administrative duties.

• Training: There is a growing demand for training that highlights the value of human translators and interpreters, as well as training in marketing tools and techniques to emphasize business skills in the changing landscape. This is crucial for translators in the Middle East, where competition is fierce.

Overall, the ITI survey paints a complex picture of the translation industry in the Middle East. Translators are facing a series of challenges, including economic uncertainty, the rise of AI, and growing competition. However, they are also demonstrating a remarkable ability to adapt and overcome these obstacles. Resilience, adaptability, and continuous training are key to success in this ever-evolving landscape.