10 Popular Arabic Words & Phrases to Know Before Your Dubai Trip 🇦🇪
Planning a trip to Dubai? While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Arabic words can enrich your travel experience and help you connect more deeply with the local culture. Even using just a handful of expressions can show respect and friendliness—qualities that are always appreciated in the UAE.
Here are 10 essential Arabic words and phrases you should know before your journey:
1. Hello – Marhaba (مرحبا)
- Pronounced: Mar-ha-ba
- A simple and friendly greeting you can use anytime—whether you’re meeting someone new or entering a shop. It’s warm, welcoming, and widely understood across the Arab world.
2. Goodbye – Ma’a as-salaama (مع السلامة)
- Pronounced: Ma-a sa-laa-mah
- Meaning “Go in peace,” this phrase is the perfect way to say goodbye. It’s polite, respectful, and commonly used in both formal and informal settings.
3. How are you? – Kaif halak? (كيف حالك؟)
- Pronounced: Kayf ha-lak? (to a man), Kayf ha-lik? (to a woman)
- A courteous and friendly way to check in on someone’s well-being. It’s a nice follow-up to “Marhaba” and a great way to start a conversation.
4. Thank you – Shukran (شكراً)
- Pronounced: Shuk-ran
- Gratitude is universal. Saying “Shukran” after receiving help or service will always be appreciated—whether you’re in a restaurant, taxi, or hotel.
5. Fine/Good – Bikhayr (بخير)
- Pronounced: Bee-khayr
- A great response to “Kaif halak?” For example: Ana bikhayr, shukran (I’m fine, thank you). It’s a polite way to indicate you’re doing well.
6. Yes – Na’am (نعم), No – La’a (لا)
- Pronounced: Na-am (yes), La-a (no)
- These two simple words will come in handy in all types of conversations—from shopping and dining to navigating the city.
7. Congratulations – Mabrook (مبروك)
- Pronounced: Ma-brook
- A lovely word to use during celebrations or joyful moments. Whether it’s a wedding, new job, or baby, saying “Mabrook” shows you’re part of the moment.
8. Let’s Go – Yallah (يلا)
- Pronounced: Yal-lah
- A very popular word across the Middle East. “Yallah” means “let’s go” or “come on.” You’ll hear it everywhere—from friends urging each other to hurry up to parents calling their kids.
9. Finish/Enough – Khalas (خلص)
- Pronounced: Kha-las
- This word means “done,” “finished,” or “enough.” For instance, if you’re full after a meal or want to signal the end of a conversation, a friendly “Khalas” gets the point across.
10. God willing – InshaAllah (إن شاء الله)
- Pronounced: In-sha-a-llah
- Literally meaning “If God wills,” this phrase is commonly used when talking about future events. Whether it’s making plans or hoping for a good outcome, saying “InshaAllah” reflects humility and hope.
✨ Final Thoughts:
Dubai is a multicultural city, but showing even the slightest effort to speak the local language can go a long way. It builds bridges, earns smiles, and often opens doors to more genuine interactions.
So before you pack your bags, memorize a few of these words—or save this post for easy access. Yallah, have an amazing trip to Dubai! 🌆✈️
