When traveling, it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local language, which in Dubai's case is Arabic.
While English-speaking locals will find it easy to get by without having to learn the language in its entirety, mastering a few words or phrases will make getting around much easier.
I'll tell you all about it here!
Dubai language: article summary
Language in Dubai: how to greet someone
Whether you're a new visitor or an expatriate worker looking to get along with local colleagues, knowing Arabic greetings helps you make a good first impression. Here's a list of Arabic words with their French translations.
Hello : Marhaba
Good evening : Massa el khair
Pleased to meet you: Forsa Sa'ida
How are you? : Kayf halak ?
How do I ask questions in Arabic in Dubai?
Get to know the locals or haggle with Dubai's merchants can be easier if you know how to ask the right questions in the local language.. Whether you're asking for someone's name or directions, these questions can help!
What's your name? Shenou Ismak ?
Do you speak English? : Tetkallam Engleezi ?
What/Who? Shu or Sheno/Meen or Meno
Why/Where? Leysh/Wain
Where is...? : Wain
How can I access... ? Kaif awsal on... ?
Is this the way to...? Hath el tareeg ywassel le..?
Where can I buy... ? : Wain agdar ashtri.... ?
How much does it cost? Kam el se'er?
How many ? : Cam ?
What is Sheno hatha? Sheno hatha? Or shu hada
What time is it? Kam Alsa
Language in Dubai: a few words of Arabic for emergencies
The emirate of Dubai is home to a large expatriate population. However, you may not always meet an English- or French-speaking resident. in case you need help in the middle of an emergency.
Help! : Sa'edooni
I think I'm lost: Daya't al tareeg/Ana Da'eah
I have a fever: Endee Humma
I need a doctor: Ahtaj Tabib
My car has broken down: Sayaratee Ta Atalat
A few other Arabic words for beginners
Affwaan is the common expression for leaving the table or getting around in a crowd in Dubai. Here are some other expressions and phrases you can add to your basic vocabulary.
My name is... : Ismi...
Excuse me: Samaht Law
Goodbye : Ma Aas-salama
Sorry: Assef
Stop: Tawaqaf
Please: Samaht Law
Thank you : Choukran
I don't know: Ma a'ref or ma Adri
I don't know Arabic: Ma atkallam Arabi
Yes/No: Naam/La
Tomorrow: Ashoofook Bukra or Ashoofak Baaker
Not too difficult! You'll quickly learn a few words from this list and be able to engage in basic conversations with the locals. In fact, learning Arabic words and meanings is very easy. a great way to make local interactions more comfortable.
If you want to master the language further, there are several institutes where you can learn Arabic in Dubai. Don't hesitate to visit one of them. A personal teacher will help you with the intricacies of the language!
What to do in Dubai in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Dubai guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
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