UAE Travel Tips

The official language of the United Arab Emirates is Arabic, used in government, education, and media. Modern Standard Arabic is taught in schools, while Emirati Arabic is the local dialect spoken in daily life. Due to the UAE’s large expatriate population, English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It is commonly used in hotels, restaurants, shops, and public services, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to communicate.

Other languages such as Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and Farsi are also spoken across the country, reflecting the diverse population. While you can comfortably navigate most of your trip using English, learning a few Arabic phrases can enhance your cultural experience and is appreciated by locals.

Here are some useful Arabic phrases:

Marhaban (mar-ha-ban) – Hello

Shukran (shoo-kraan) – Thank you

Min fadlak / Min fadlik (min fad-lak / fad-lik) – Please (male/female)

Naam (na-am) – Yes

La (la) – No

Ma’a as-salama (ma-ah a-sa-la-ma) – Goodbye

Showing respect for local language and customs is valued. Formal greetings, such as a nod or a handshake between men, are common in business and social settings. Avoid using informal gestures or slang, and note that public signs are typically displayed in both Arabic and English, especially in transport hubs, shopping malls, and attractions. A translation app may still be helpful when exploring less touristy areas or dealing with paperwork.

Language plays an important role in Emirati identity, particularly through oral storytelling, poetry, and traditional songs. Making a small effort to use polite expressions in Arabic shows respect and can lead to warmer interactions during your stay.