Easy Arabic Phrases Every Newcomer in Dubai Should Know
Moving to a new city, especially one as vibrant and multicultural as Dubai, is always exciting. You’re stepping into a land of glittering skyscrapers, stunning beaches, endless shopping malls, and food from every corner of the globe. Yet, in the middle of all that glamour, you’ll hear a beautiful language swirling through conversations, announcements, and greetings — Arabic.
While English is widely spoken in Dubai, learning a few easy Arabic phrases can instantly make your experience warmer and more personal. Locals and long-time residents will always appreciate a newcomer making an effort to connect with their culture, even if it’s just a simple greeting or thank you.
So whether you’re visiting for a holiday, moving for work, or planning to build a life here, here’s a friendly guide to easy, essential Arabic phrases every newcomer should know.
Why Learn a Few Arabic Phrases?
Even though Dubai is a cosmopolitan city where you can get by with English, knowing a little Arabic can work wonders. It’s not about fluency — it’s about respect and connection.
A simple “Shukran” (thank you) or “Marhaba” (hello) can spark a genuine smile. It shows that you’re embracing the culture and making an effort to understand the people and traditions of the place you now call home, even if temporarily.
And let’s be honest — it’s always fun to surprise a new friend or colleague with a local phrase, especially when you nail the pronunciation!
Essential Arabic Greetings
Let’s start with greetings — because no conversation begins without a friendly hello.
- Marhaba (مرحبا) — Hello
An easy and neutral greeting you can use anywhere, anytime. - Salam Alaikum (السلام عليكم) — Peace be upon you
A more traditional greeting. The response is Wa Alaikum Salam (وعليكم السلام), meaning and upon you peace. - Sabah Al Khair (صباح الخير) — Good morning
The polite way to start your day at the office or your neighborhood café. - Masa’ Al Khair (مساء الخير) — Good evening
Use this in the evenings when greeting friends or colleagues.
Polite Phrases You’ll Use Every Day
Politeness goes a long way in any culture, and Dubai is no different.
- Shukran (شكرا) — Thank you
An absolute essential. Simple, warm, and always appreciated. - Afwan (عفوا) — You’re welcome or Excuse me
Respond to Shukran with this, or use it to politely get someone’s attention. - Min Fadlak (من فضلك) — Please (to a male)
- Min Fadlik (من فضلك) — Please (to a female)
A must-learn to soften your requests and show courtesy.
Helpful Phrases for Getting Around
Dubai’s bustling markets, taxis, and malls are full of opportunities to use these:
- Kam? (كم؟) — How much?
A quick, handy phrase for shopping in local souks or small shops. - La (لا) — No
Simple but powerful. Great for politely declining. - Naam (نعم) — Yes
Equally essential for agreeing or confirming something. - Wayn? (وين؟) — Where?
Use with gestures or names to ask for directions. For example: Wayn al hammam? (Where is the bathroom?)
Express Yourself Casually
Dubai is a relaxed city, and you’ll often hear casual Arabic phrases in everyday situations.
- Insha’Allah (إن شاء الله) — God willing
Used when talking about future plans or hopes. Even expats love using it! - Ma’assalama (مع السلامة) — Goodbye
A nice way to bid farewell, whether it’s a casual chat or at the end of a business meeting. - Yalla (يلا) — Let’s go!
Super popular and used by everyone when urging someone to hurry up or move. - Habibi (حبيبي) — My dear / darling (to a male)
- Habibti (حبيبتي) — My dear / darling (to a female)
Very common in friendly conversations. Locals and expats use this affectionately.
Emergency or Quick-Help Phrases
You hope you won’t need them, but just in case:
- Sa’edni (ساعدني) — Help me
Good to know in any emergency situation. - Ana Taaban (أنا تعبان) — I’m tired (for a male)
- Ana Taabana (أنا تعبانة) — I’m tired (for a female)
- Ana Mareed (أنا مريض) — I’m sick (for a male)
- Ana Mareeda (أنا مريضة) — I’m sick (for a female)
At a Restaurant or Café
Food is a big part of life in Dubai. Here’s what to say when dining out:
- Ana Aheb (أنا أحب) — I like…
Example: Ana Aheb Shawarma (I like shawarma) - Menu, law samaht (القائمة، لو سمحت) — Menu, please
- Mai (ماء) — Water
- Bill, law samaht (الحساب، لو سمحت) — The bill, please
Arabic Numbers at a Glance
You might hear Arabic numbers in markets or taxi fares. Here’s a quick guide:
1 — Wahid (واحد)
2 — Ithnayn (اثنين)
3 — Thalatha (ثلاثة)
4 — Arba’a (أربعة)
5 — Khamsa (خمسة)
6 — Sitta (ستة)
7 — Sab’a (سبعة)
8 — Thamaniya (ثمانية)
9 — Tis’a (تسعة)
10 — Ashara (عشرة)
Knowing these can really help while shopping or bargaining.
Pronunciation Tips for Beginners
Don’t stress about perfect pronunciation. Most Dubai residents are used to hearing different accents. However, here are a few tips:
- The letter ‘H’ in Habibi is soft, almost like a breath.
- ‘Q’ in Qahwa (coffee) is pronounced like a deeper ‘K’ from the back of your throat.
- The ‘Kh’ in Sabah Al Khair is a soft, breathy sound like the ‘ch’ in the Scottish word loch.
Locals will appreciate your effort, even if it’s not flawless.
Fun Phrases to Impress Friends
If you want to impress your new Dubai friends:
- Ana min… (أنا من…) — I am from…
Example: Ana min India (I am from India) - Mafi Mushkila (ما في مشكلة) — No problem
Very casual and widely used. - Sho Akhbarak? (شو أخبارك؟) — What’s up? / How are you?
Response: Tamaam (تمام) — Good / Fine
Final Thoughts
Dubai is a beautiful blend of cultures, and while English is enough to get around, dropping in a few Arabic phrases can elevate your experience. It’s a sign of respect, warmth, and curiosity about the local culture.
You don’t need to learn complex grammar or long conversations. Just a handful of these phrases can open up friendly interactions, impress locals, and help you feel more at home in your new city.
So next time you hop into a taxi or enter a café, don’t hesitate to greet with “Marhaba!”, thank with “Shukran”, and part with “Ma’assalama”.
Yalla — start practicing and enjoy your Dubai adventure!
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
First Time in Dubai? Learn These Arabic Words to Survive Your First Week
