How to Make Friends with Arabic Speakers in Qatar and Dubai

If you’re planning on attending the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this year, it’s essential to be aware of the local culture and customs. While it is true that Arab culture can be pretty conservative in nature, it is undeniable that Arab people are incredibly hospitable and always willing to welcome people who show interest and respect for their traditions. If you’re attending Qatar and/or Dubai next November, one way to do just this is to learn some key Arabic phrases, but also to learn when and how to use them.

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Here is everything you need to know to make friends with Arabic speakers.

The Importance of greetings in Arab countries

In Arab countries, greetings are incredibly important. While in many countries it is perfectly common to start or end a conversation without a proper greeting, Arabic speakers always take the time to say hello and goodbye.

If you’ve made eye contact with a local and you’d like to engage in a short conversation, the most common way to greet someone in Arabic is with the phrase “as-salaamu alaykum”, which means “peace be upon you”. Too long? Then you can say “marhabaan”, which means “hello“, or “ahlan wa sahlan”, which literally means “welcome” but is used as a common greeting.

When it comes to goodbye, you can say “ma’a as-salaama” or simply “bye“, just as in English.

It’s important to remember that Arabs are very hospitable people, so if you’re invited to someone’s home, it’s considered rude to decline. Arabs are also very family-oriented, so don’t be surprised if you’re introduced to someone’s entire extended family within minutes of meeting them!

If this is the case, don’t forget to say that you are pleased to meet them: “Tasharrafna” (Nice to meet you) will do. Oh, and don’t forget to say your name:  “Ismii/ismi…” (I am…)

Key phrases and vocabulary for socializing with Arabic speakers

In addition to learning the basic greetings, there are a few key phrases and words that will come in handy when socializing with Arabic speakers. For example, if you’ve been introduced to a new friend’s family member, it’s always polite to inquire about their health. You can do this just by saying “Izza khairak?” (How are you?). If you’d like to ask their name, you can say “shu ismak?” (What is your name?).

Arabic culture is very family-oriented. If you’ve made an Arabic friend, they will appreciate it if you inquire about their family. For example, you can say something like “Izza khairukum al-ukht wa al-ab?” (How are your sister and brother?). Oh, and of course, if you’re offered a cup of tea, you can say “shukran” (thank you) to show your gratitude.

Finally, if you need to apologize, you can say “anaa asif” (I’m sorry).

Making Friends with Arabic Speakers: Key phrases and cultural implicancies

Whether you’re at the football stadium or visiting a tourist spot in your spare time, socialising with Arabic speakers will be a key part of your World Cup experience – and it can be a lot of fun, too.

But, what topics can you talk about with Arabic speakers? (Apart from football, of course!) And more importantly, what phrases can you use?

Let’s take a look.

Conversation Starters with Arabic Speakers

One easy way to start a conversation with an Arabic speaker is by complimenting them or their country. For example, you might say “Maa sha’ allah” (Wow!) or “Qatar aljamila!” (Beautiful Qatar!). If you’re feeling extra bold, you might even ask for a photo together – just make sure to say “Mafhoom as-sukraan” (Thank you very much) if they agree.

You can also ask an Arabic speaker about their favorite foods or dishes. Perhaps you could say “Izzayak favorite kishkiyya?” (What’s your favorite Kishke dish?) or “Izzayak favourite halaal?” (What’s your favorite halal food?). If you’re lucky, they might even invite you to join them for a meal!

Finally, you can ask an Arabic speaker about their hobbies or interests. For example, you might say “Izzay fi sha’ab as-suluk?” (Are you into hiking?) or “Izzay fi sha’ab al-‘uyoon?” (Do you like to read?). If they say yes, you can even ask if they have any recommendations – after all, what better way to make friends than by bonding over a shared interest?

Key Phrases for Socializing with Arabic Speakers

No matter what topic you end up discussing with an Arabic speaker, there are a few key phrases that will always come in handy. For example, if you want to ask someone to repeat themselves, you can say “Min fadlik i intaaruk” (Please repeat that).

It’s also important to know how to say “I don’t understand” in Arabic – after all, even if you’re trying your best, there will be times when the conversation will move too fast for you to follow. In this case, you can say “Ana la afham”.

Finally, if you need to excuse yourself for a bathroom break or to make a phone call, you can say “Yurjaa almaedhirat, ‘ahtaj ‘iilaa astikhdam dawrat almiah / ‘iijra’ mukalamat hatifia” (Please excuse me, I need to use the restroom / make a phone call).

When and how to use these phrases

Now that you know some of the key phrases and vocabulary for socialising with Arabic speakers, it’s important to know when and how to use them. First and foremost, always take the time to greet someone before starting a conversation. This shows that you respect them and their culture.

Additionally, make sure to use the proper form of address when speaking to someone. For example, if you’re speaking to an older man, you should use the word “sir” (sayyid), and if you’re speaking to an older woman, you should use the word “madam” (sayyida).

As we mentioned before, Arabic culture can be pretty conservative, so it’s important to be aware of the social cues when socialising with locals. For example, men and women usually don’t shake hands or interact in public, so it’s best to avoid any physical contact unless you know it’s okay.

Additionally, avoid talking about sensitive topics like religion or politics, as these can be hot-button issues in the Arab world.

If you follow these simple tips, you’ll be sure to make some friends and have a great time socialising with Arabic speakers during your stay in Qatar or Dubai. Just remember to be respectful and patient, and you’re sure to have a great experience.

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“I wanted to be able to travel around the Arab world and not feel lost when trying to speak to locals. I knew some basics before starting my lessons, but after just a few weeks I felt much more confident in my speaking and listening skills. My tutor tailored the lessons to my interests and needs, which made them really enjoyable and helpful. I would definitely recommend taking online lessons to anyone who wants to improve their Arabic.”

If you’re interested in taking online Arabic lessons, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We would be more than happy to help you reach your language goals!