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Heading to the Middle East soon? While English is widely spoken, knowing a few Arabic phrases can add a personal touch to your trip.
It’s a simple way to show respect, connect with locals and make your adventure even more memorable. Here’s a handy crash course to get you started!
A few words in Arabic can go a long way. Whether you’re shopping at a souk, grabbing a taxi, or just greeting someone, these phrases can make your interactions more personal and fun. Plus, locals will appreciate your effort. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the culture.
Warm Arabic Greetings
● Salaam Alaikum / Wa Alaikum Salaam: The classic greeting meaning “peace be upon you” and its reply, “and upon you be peace,” is a must-know for any visitor
● Hala: Think of this as the Arabic equivalent of “hey!”. Perfect for a casual hello
● Mabrook: This cheerful way to say “congratulations” is sure to bring a smile to someone’s face
● Habibi / Habibti: A term of affection for friends or loved ones—habibi for men and habibti for women. You might even hear “Yalla, habibi!” meaning “Let’s go, my friend!”
Polite Phrases for Everyday Use
● Shukran (Thank you) / Afwan (You’re welcome). These are perfect for when you want to show gratitude
● Min fadlak / Min fadliki: The polite way to say “please,” with min fadlak for men and min fadliki for women
● Aasif / Assifa: Need to apologise? Use aasif for men or assifa for women—it’s as simple as that!
Quick Responses
● Ay-wa / Naam: Yes
● La’: No
● La shukran:No, thank you
Getting Around Made Easy
● Maazera: (Excuse me) Start your question with this to get someone’s attention politely.
● Wayn al hammam?: (Where is the toilet?) You’ll thank us for this one!
● Ala yamen / Ala yassar (Go right / Go left)
● Henna (Here)
In an Emergency
Let’s hope you don’t need these, but just in case:
● MosaAda (Help!)
● Al shurtaa (Police)
● Moustashfa (Hospital)
● Dakhtar (Doctor)
● Hal Ladika hatef? (Do you have a phone?)
Start a Conversation
● Is-mee [your name] (My name is...)
● Kaeef halak? (How are you?)
● Anaa min [country] (I’m from...)
Handy country names include:
● Ame-ri-ki (America)
● Brai-ta-ni (Britain)
● Al hind (India)
Counting from 1 to 10
Counting in Arabic is easier than you think! Here’s a quick rundown:
● Waahad (One)
● Ithnayn (Two)
● Thaltha (Three)
● Arba’a (Four)
● Fkhamsa (Five)
● Sitta (Six)
● Saba’a (Seven)
● Thamaanya (Eight)
● Tiss’a (Nine)
● Ashara (Ten)
Make your trip to the Middle East even more memorable by staying at Premier Inn. With comfy rooms, great locations and friendly service, we’re here to make your visit a breeze. Book your stay today and get ready to explore with confidence!
