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The first time that tourists travel to Dubai, so many things might be challenging but the spoken language is the most important of them. Dubai is not an ordinary Arabian country, it is a diversity of cultures and ethnicity that makes it unique. But how does this combination of cultures affect everyday life? The languages Arabic, English, Hindi, Urdu, and Tagalog are among the most frequently used languages among people in Dubai. But which one is the most important?
We are going to find out today. Stick with DoJoin to learn what languages people speak in Dubai and which ones are better to learn.
What is the Official Language in Dubai?
Since Arabic is the national language of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), it is the most widely used language in Dubai as well. This language consists of the Modern Standard Arabic, which is used in government documents, laws, and formal communication.
Also, a local dialect called Emirati Arabic is commonly used by native Emiratis in casual settings. Moreover, as a result of language changes over time, how Arabic is used changes in different settings, and understanding these differences can help you understand its depth and diversity better.
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA): Modern Standard Arabic is the formal version of the language. It is the standard and uniform across all Arabic-speaking countries. Of course, it is not typically used in everyday conversations. This variation is used in these settings:
- Government documents, laws, and official correspondence.
- Education, news media, and formal speeches.
- Religious contexts, such as in mosques and the Quran.
Emirati Arabic (Local Dialect): Emirati Arabic is one of the dialects Emiratis in Dubai use when they speak across the UAE. Emirati families and friends in informal settings, and also in traditional gatherings and cultural events use this accent. You will find unique vocabulary and pronunciation compared to other Arabic dialects in this dialect.
For example, Hala (hello) or Shoo akhbarak? (How are you?) are common phrases.
Other Arabic Dialects: There are also other Arabic dialects in Dubai. Dubai’s large population includes people from many Arabic-speaking countries, each bringing their own dialects:
- Levantine Arabic: Spoken by people from Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Palestine.
- Egyptian Arabic: Commonly heard because of the influence of Egyptian media.
- Maghrebi Arabic: Spoken by North Africans, though less common in Dubai.
These dialects vary significantly from Emirati Arabic in pronunciation, vocabulary, and even grammar. If you are thinking about learning the Arabic language before visiting Dubai, choosing the modern standard Arabic, or Emirati Arabic is the best, most frequently-used choice.
Do People Speak English in Dubai?
Yes, people widely speak English in Dubai. English has become the second official language of Dubai, and people use it in their daily life conversations. That is mostly because of Dubai’s international status as a spot for business and tourism.
Let us see where you hear English the most in Dubai:
- Business and Workplaces: Most businesses use English as their primary language for communication, especially in multinational companies. Contracts, emails, and meetings are often conducted in English.
- Tourism and Hospitality: Hotels, restaurants, and attractions serve English-speaking visitors. You will always find the English language on Signboards, menus, and guides.
- Education: English is used by many schools and universities in Dubai as the main language of instruction. This is especially true in private institutions.
- Daily life: In malls, supermarkets, and public transportation, English is commonly used.
Do I Need to Know Arabic for Visiting Dubai?
Not necessarily. While it’s always better to learn a few basic Arabic phrases for politeness (like Shukran for “thank you”), you can easily spend your time in Dubai with English alone.
What Other Languages Are Spoken in Dubai?
Although Arabic and English are the two most used languages in Dubai, there are other languages you might hear in this city. Below we have mentioned some
Hindi and Urdu: After English and Arabic, Hindi and Urdu are among the most frequently used languages. The reason is, a huge number of people who are working in Dubai, come from India and Pakistan. If you are going to visit Dubai, you will probably hear these languages in shops, markets, and workplaces, especially where South Asians are employed.
Tagalog: Tagalog is the language of the Philippines, and is commonly spoken in Dubai. This is because a large Filipino community is living in Dubai. Chances are you hear this language in retail stores, hospitality settings, and among Filipino workers.
South Indian languages: The languages, such as Malayalam and Tamil are mostly used because of the many people from Kerala and Tamil Nadu working in Dubai. South Indian grocery stores, restaurants, and cultural events provide spaces where these languages are used.
Farsi: Since the Iranian community has a tremendous effect on Dubai’s economic and service-based side, it is without a doubt that Farsi (Persian) is one of the most spoken languages. Having a significant impact on actual states and touristic parts of the city, Farsi can be an excellent asset for all tourists.
Bengali and Nepali: Workers and service providers in Dubai are an influential part of Dubai and are widely dominated by Bangladesh and Nepali citizens. As a result of this dominance, it is common for all these workers to speak Bengali and Nepali in Dubai. Many people use these two languages on construction sites and worker accommodations.
French, Russian, and German: Dubai is one of the leading destinations for people around Europe, and as a result of this fact, French, Russian, and German can be heard on different sides of Dubai. Hotels, tourist locations, and international business spots are the most significant places to hear these Hindo-European languages.
Useful Arabic Expressions Used in Dubai
Although you do not necessarily have to know Arabic to visit Dubai, it is much better and more respectful to sometimes show gratitude using Arabic expressions.
Here we have listed some of the most frequently Dubai language words and expressions in Arabic you are gonna need in Dubai:
- Hi: Salam
- Good morning: Sabah El Kheer
- Good evening: Masaa El Kheer
- Welcome (to greet someone): Marhaba!
- Welcome (for thank you): Afwan
- Can you help me? Momkin mosaiadati
- Straight / Left / Right: Ala tool/ yisar/ yameen
- How much is this? B kam hatha
- Excuse me: Law Samaht
- How are you? Kaifa Alhal
- I’m fine, thanks: Ana Bekhair, Shukran
- And you? Wa ant
- Thank you (very much!): Shukran (Jazeelan)
- Good night: Tosbeho al kahir
- Goodbye: Maia Salama
- I’m lost: Adaitu tareeqi
Conclusion
As you noticed in this article reasons like foreign workers and international relationships with other countries, have affected Dubai to count as a multilingual city. This has led to the fact that several languages are currently spoken in Dubai, such as Arabic, English, Hindi, and Urdu. If you are hesitating to choose one of them to learn, here is your answer: the local dialect of Arabic or English is your best choice. After learning the language you need, it is time to book your tickets. We recommend you consider DoJoin as the best option if you are looking for an affordable plan. Our team offers the most affordable plans and tickets for tourist locations and hotels in Dubai, offering you the opportunity not to worry about your budget. So, take a look at the DoJoin website to see which plan works best for you!
FAQs
1. How do you say hello in the Dubai language?
To say hello in the Dubai language, you can say Arabic “salam” or “Marhaba”.
2. Does Dubai Speak English?
Yes, English is the second most widely spoken language in Dubai.
3. What languages do you speak in Dubai?
Arabic, English, Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and Farsi are among the most spoken languages in Dubai.
4. Is Hindi spoken in Dubai?
Yes, Hindi is spoken in Dubai and is one of the most widely spoken languages in Dubai.
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