Abstract
The expansion of international relationships in Saudi Arabia has led to a recognition of the need to rethink the way
that English is taught. This study aims at identifying the perceptions of English language instructors regarding the integration
of the teaching of English as a lingua franca (ELF) with English for specific purposes (ESP) classrooms at Saudi
universities in order to strengthen global connectivity. A 14-item questionnaire was administered to 50 ESP instructors
working at 14 Saudi universities, and of these respondents, six were interviewed. It was found that many of the instructors
were aware of the value of teaching ELF; however, students’ lack of willingness to learn it, lack of professional
training opportunities and the image of native-speakerism as the ideal are obstacles to teaching ELF skills. This study
encourages English language policymakers in Middle Eastern countries that are expanding their international relationships
to consider teaching ELF, an under-recognised approach.