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What Is the Arabic language and How Is It Different?
The Arabic language spoken in the UAE is a branch of Gulf Arabic, distinct from other Arabic dialects due to its unique pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. Unlike Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), which is used in formal settings across the Arab world, Emirati Arabic is widely spoken in daily interactions in the UAE. Learn some phrases in arabic that we have translated into Russian, English, French, German, Swedish, Irish.
Here at Expat Zone we will provide you UAE government website links about language learning if you’re interested in learning more about the arabic language and teaching strategies and resources in the UAE, there are several governmental websites and institutions that offer detailed information and support:
Ministry of Education
They have developed initiatives such as “Arabic Language Teaching Strategies” which focus on improving the teaching and learning of Arabic language for grades 1 to 6. More details about their programs and educational content are available on their official website: Ministry of Education UAE.
Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah
This institution is dedicated to addressing issues related to the Arabic language and supporting linguistic and scientific societies. It’s a great resource for those interested in deeper linguistic studies and academic approaches to Arabic. Further information can be found here: Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah.
Judicial Training Institute – University City of Sharjah
Although primarily focused on legal training, this institute also contributes to educational endeavors, including language education, within a professional and scientific framework. Details on their programs are available at: Judicial Training Institute.
Yes: naäam (نعم)
- English: Yes
- Russian: Да (Da)
- French: Oui
- German: Ja
- Swedish: Ja
- Irish: Sea
Thank you: shukran (شكراً)
- English: Thank you
- Russian: Спасибо (Spasibo)
- French: Merci
- German: Danke
- Swedish: Tack
- Irish: Go raibh maith agat
No: laa (لا)
- English: No
- Russian: Нет (Net)
- French: Non
- German: Nein
- Swedish: Nej
- Irish: Níl
You’re welcome: äafwan (عفواً)
- English: You’re welcome
- Russian: Пожалуйста (Pozhaluysta)
- French: De rien
- German: Bitte
- Swedish: Varsågod
- Irish: Tá fáilte romhat
Please: min faDlik (من فضلك)
- English: Please
- Russian: Пожалуйста (Pozhaluysta)
- French: S’il vous plaît
- German: Bitte
- Swedish: Snälla
- Irish: Le do thoil
Excuse me: aläafw (العفو)
- English: Excuse me
- Russian: Извините (Izvinite)
- French: Excusez-moi
- German: Entschuldigen Sie
- Swedish: Ursäkta
- Irish: Gabh mo leithscéal
Why Learn UAE Arabic?
Learning Arabic allows for deeper connections with locals, an enhanced cultural experience, and can be beneficial in both personal and professional settings. For expatriates working in the UAE, understanding the local language can significantly ease business transactions and daily communications.
Pros of Learning Arabic in Dubai
Enhanced Cultural Understanding:
Language is deeply interlinked with culture. Learning Emirati Arabic opens up a richer understanding of the local customs and traditions of the UAE. Therefore, learning Emirati Arabic is vital for anyone looking to deepen their connection with the region.
Improved Communication in Everyday Situations:
For expatriates living in the UAE or even visiting, speaking the local language allows smoother and more effective communication in daily life. For instance, from shopping and dining to using public transportation and engaging in social interactions. That’s why here at Expat Zone we would like to offer you the chance to learn the Arabic language.
Business Opportunities:
As the UAE is a global business hub, learning Emirati Arabic can be a significant advantage in business settings as it can help build rapport with local partners, clients, and colleagues. It also demonstrates respect and appreciation for the local culture, which can be crucial in business negotiations.
Employment Advantages:
For those seeking employment in the UAE, knowledge of Emirati Arabic can set you apart from other candidates as often this can be a requirement in the job specification. Learning Emirati Arabic is particularly beneficial in sectors like tourism, education, healthcare, and public services.
Personal Fulfillment:
Learning a new language is a rewarding experience that boosts cognitive functions in addition to personal growth. Achieving proficiency in Emirati Arabic can also provide a sense of accomplishment and open up new avenues for personal exploration.
Cons of Learning Arabic
Dialectal Variations:
The Arabic language has many dialects, which can be a source of confusion for learners. Emirati Arabic is just one of many Gulf dialects, and it differs significantly from Modern Standard Arabic and other regional dialects. This variation can complicate communication outside the UAE.
Limited Global Utility:
Unlike Modern Standard Arabic, which is understood across the Arab world, Emirati Arabic is more specific to the region. It is primarily confined to the UAE, which could be considered a limitation if you’re looking for a language with broader global applicability.
Learning Curve:
Arabic is considered one of the more challenging languages for English speakers to learn. This is due to its different script, pronunciation of certain sounds, and grammatical structures. However, just like learning any other language you can eventually master Arabic.
FAQ: Language and Communication in Dubai
Can I work in Dubai if I only speak English?
Answer: Yes, you can work in Dubai with only English. The business sector in Dubai is very international, and English is widely used as the lingua franca. However, knowing some Arabic can enhance your professional interactions and could be advantageous in certain job sectors.
Can you speak English in Dubai?
Answer: Absolutely. English is widely spoken in Dubai and is used in expat business setup meetings, education, and as a common language among expatriates for when they are applying for a visa as well as tourists visa applications.
What language is mostly spoken in Dubai?
Answer: Arabic is the official language of the UAE, which includes Dubai. However, due to the diverse expatriate population, English is also prevalently spoken and understood.
How do you say hello in Dubai?
Answer: The standard greeting in Arabic is “As-salāmu ʿalaykum” (السلام عليكم), which means “Peace be upon you.” A common reply is “Wa ʿalaykumu s-salām” (وعليكم السلام), which means “And upon you be peace.”
Russian: Здравствуйте (Zdravstvuyte)
French: Bonjour
German: Hallo
Swedish: Hej
Irish: Dia dhuit
Can I survive in Dubai with English?
Answer: Yes, you can comfortably live in Dubai speaking only English. Most signs are in both Arabic and English, and most people you encounter will be able to communicate in English.
Which religion is more in Dubai?
Answer: Islam is the dominant religion in Dubai and the UAE. The country is tolerant of other religions, with places of worship for Christian, Hindu, Sikh, and other religious communities. It’s important to show respect for Islamic customs and practices, especially during religious observances like Ramadan.
This Learn Arabic Language in Dubai FAQ should help you get started with your journey in Dubai, whether you’re visiting, moving, or planning to work there. Knowing even a few phrases in Arabic can enrich your experience and show respect towards the local culture.
Did You Know?
We bet you didn’t know that Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is the official language used in formal settings such as education and media, the UAE is home to several dialects of Arabic.
Here in Dubai the local Emirati dialect, known as Gulf Arabic, is predominantly spoken in everyday life.
Another fact from expat zone is that the diverse population found on the ground here are other Arabic dialects like Egyptian Arabic and Levantine Arabic are also commonly heard in the UAE.
Did You Know?
When you land in Dubai you will definitely come across linguistic landscape. You will fast realise that the UAE is heavily influenced by its expatriate population, which makes up about 80% of the residents.
Whether you are from India or the UK you will notice words from languages such as English, Hindi, and Tagalog into the everyday usage of Arabic spoken in the UAE.
This blend creates a unique version of Arabic that accommodates various linguistic elements from around the world.
Did You Know?
The UAE government has been pushing hard to promote the Arabic language among the younger generations and expatriates, as there’s been a growing concern about the decline in Arabic usage among the local population.
Brand new initiatives such as the Mohammed Bin Rashid Arabic Language Award have been established to encourage the use and study of Arabic, highlighting its importance as a symbol of national identity and heritage.
So now its time to get chatting the way the locals do, so you can keep up and not miss out.