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.