The Middle East and North Africa have inspired countless people to explore their lands rich in history and culture. Offering travellers a combination of historical sights, modern marvels, and incredible food, makes travelling within the Arabian Peninsula and its surroundings the perfect adventure for those seeking a unique travel experience. To truly connect with the locals and immerse yourself in their world, learning a few basic Arabic travel phrases can be incredibly rewarding!
Renowned for its elegance and complexity, Arabic’s unique script flows gracefully from right to left and reflects the diversity of the Arab world. While it is a unified language, it contains regional variations that reflect the different countries where it is spoken, adding to the language’s cultural significance and intricacy.
To make the most out of your travels to Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan, to name but a few Arabic-speaking countries, Expat Explore has put together a list of some of the most common Arabic phrases you’ll hear as you navigate your way through these destinations. From simple greetings to culturally rich Arabic sayings, we’ll equip you with the language tools you need to make the most of your travels.
Related: Journey to the Middle East and North Africa on our Egypt & Jordan Adventure with Felucca Cruise to tick off two Arabic-speaking destinations in one go!
Essential Arabic travel phrases you need to know
Arabic is the official or co-official language of 25 countries. It is one of the richest languages in terms of vocabulary, with over 120,000 words, which can make learning it feel daunting. But, not to worry, you only need to learn a few basic Arabic words to enhance your Arabic adventure and show native speakers that you are genuinely interested in their culture. You never know, you may just score a deal in one of the local markets by putting these common Arabic phrases to use. So, let’s dive right in!
Arabic greetings:
Marhaba “Mar-Ha-Ban” (مرحبا) – Hello
This is the simplest form of greeting used across the Arabic-speaking world.
Sabah el kheir “Sa-Bah Al-Kha-Yron” (صباح الخير) – Good Morning
Masa’ alkhayr “Mah-Sah Al-Khair” (مساء الخير) – Good Afternoon/Good Evening
Tesbahun ala khair “Tes-Ba-Hun Ala Khair” (تصبحون على خير) – Good Night
Ma’a salama “Ma Salama“ (مع السلامة) – Goodbye
Related: Feeling inspired to discover the world one language at a time? Learn how to say “Hello” in the world’s top languages!
The magic words:
Min fadlak (من فضلك) – Please (when addressing a male)
Min fadlik (من فضلك) – Please (when addressing a female)
The “lak” and “lik” portions of these words are just different ways to say “From your grace,” depending on whether you’re talking to a male or female.
Shukran “Shoo-Kran” (شكرا) – Thank you
Baad eznak (بعد اذنك) – Excuse me (when addressing a male)
Baad eznek (بعد اذنك) – Excuse me (when addressing a female)
Aff-wann (عفوًا) – You’re welcome
Naam / Aywa (نعم / أيوة) – Yes
La (لا) – No
Getting around:
Fein al-hammam? (فين الحمام؟) – Where is the restroom?
Fein al-… (فين ال…؟) – Where is the…?
Ak-rab (أقرب) – Nearest
Mahatet qatr (محطة قطر) – Train station
Mahatet autobiss (محطة اوتوبيس) – Bus station
Mataam (مطعم) – Restaurant
Mass-ged (مسجد) – Mosque
Miscommunications:
Ma fehemt (ما فهمت) – I don’t understand
Momken te’id? (ممكن تعيد؟) – Could you please repeat that?
Aassef / Assfa (آسف / آسفة) – I’m sorry
A-na aasifon, a-na laa atha-kallam al-‘arabeeyah (انا اسف انا لا اتكلم العربية) – I am sorry, I don’t speak Arabic
Ma fee Arabi – an informal way to say “I don’t speak Arabic”
Related: Discover why Expat Explore chose to add Morocco as a new destination to our tour offerings and get inspired to travel to this Arabic-speaking country.
Other useful Arabic expressions that will come in handy:
As-salamu alaykum “As-Salam-Mu A-Lay-Kum” (السلام عليكم) – Peace be upon you
Arguably the most common greeting used by native-speaking Arabs, as-salamu alaykum is considered to be the equivalent of “Hello” or “Good day” in English.
Wa alaykumu s-salam (وَعَلَيْكُم ٱلسَّلَامُ) – And upon you be peace
This is the standard response to the greeting, as-salamu alaykum.
Inshallah “In-Shaa-Allah” (ان شاءالله) – If God wills it
This Arabic expression is commonly used to express hope, optimism, or uncertainty about the future. It is tied to the belief that while humans can make plans, the ultimate outcome is in God’s hands. When someone says “Inshallah“, they are essentially saying, “I hope so, but only if God permits it”.
Mashallah “Ma-Sha-Allah” (مَا شَاءَ ٱللَّٰهُ) – God has willed it
Mashallah, on the other hand, translates to “What God has willed.” This Arabic saying is used to express admiration, praise, or gratitude for something positive. People often say “Mashallah” when they see something beautiful, hear good news, or witness a positive event.
These two phrases offer a glimpse into the Islamic view and the way Arabic speakers approach life and its uncertainties. Understanding how linked the Arabic language is to its culture and religion will help you make the most out of your time in the Arabic-speaking parts of the world. By embracing another language, and with it, its heritage, you begin to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world and its people.
Words you’ll hear while out exploring:
Habibi (حبيبي) – My love/dear (when addressing a male)
Habibati (حبيبتي) – My love/dear (when addressing a female)
These two Arabic terms of endearment are used in various relationships, from romantic to platonic. “Habibi” is typically used by a female to address a male, while “Habibati” is used by a male to address a female.
Yallah (يلا) – Let’s go / Come on / Hurry up
Yallah is a versatile Arabic word used to express urgency or encourage action. Whether you’re trying to motivate someone to start a task or simply urging them to move faster, “Yallah” is a convenient and expressive way to do so. Give it a try, you never know, you may have just found your new favourite word!
Related: Discover why an Egypt travel adventure deserves a spot on every traveller’s bucket list. Meet Peter, our passionate Tour Leader.
Putting in the effort to learn a new language can go a long way in building connections and creating unforgettable memories. With these essential Arabic words and phrases in your linguistic toolkit, you’re ready to embark on a truly enriching travel experience. So, embrace the challenge, practise these phrases, and let your Arabic adventure begin with a secret weapon, the power of speaking the language!
Ready to show off your Arabic skills to the locals? Explore our guided Middle East and Africa group tours to put your newfound phrases to the test!