Traveling to Saudi Arabia is an exciting experience, but understanding a few basic Arabic phrases can make your journey even more special!
While many residents of Saudi Arabia, especially in major cities, speak English, knowing some Arabic will help you connect with locals, navigate more easily, and show respect for the culture.
Greetings and Politeness
Saudi culture places great importance on greetings and politeness. Using these phrases will leave a good impression on the person you’re speaking to:
- As-salamu alaykum (السلام عليكم) – Peace be upon you (common greeting)
- Wa alaykum as-salam (وعليكم السلام) – And peace be upon you (response)
- Marhaban (مرحبا) – Hello
- Ma’a as-salama (مع السلامة) – Goodbye
- Min fadlak (من فضلك) – Please (to a man)
- Min fadlik (من فضلك) – Please (to a woman)
- Shukran (شكرا) – Thank you
- Afwan (عفوا) – You’re welcome / Excuse me
Asking for Help
If you ever need assistance while in the Kingdom, you can use phrases like:
- Hal tatakallam al-ingliziyya? (هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟) – Do you speak English?
- Lā afham (لا أفهم) – I don’t understand
- Ayn al-matar? (أين المطار؟) – Where is the airport?
- Ayn al-mustashfa? (أين المستشفى؟) – Where is the hospital?
- Hal mumkin musa’adati? (هل ممكن مساعدتي؟) – Can you help me?
In case of an emergency or if you need help, these phrases might be lifesaving:
- Ittasil bil-shurta! (اتصل بالشرطة!) – Call the police!
- Ana fee khatar! (أنا في خطر!) – I am in danger!
- Ihtaju ila tabeeb! (أحتاج إلى طبيب!) – I need a doctor!
- Iftah al-bab! (افتح الباب!) – Open the door!
Getting Around
Navigating the Saudi cities will be a piece of cake with these common phrases:
- Kam al-thaman? (كم الثمن؟) – How much does it cost?
- Ayn al-maṭ’ am? (أين المطعم؟) – Where is the restaurant?
- Ayn al-hammam? (أين الحمام؟) – Where is the bathroom?
- Bi kam al-tadhkira? (بكم التذكرة؟) – How much is the ticket?
Practicing Arabic with Locals
Don’t be shy to practice! Most Saudi Arabian citizens will appreciate your effort to speak their language.
If you struggle, a simple “Ana at’allam al-arabiyya” (أنا أتعلم العربية) – I am learning Arabic – can help start a friendly conversation.
By mastering these essential Arabic phrases, you’ll have an easier, more immersive experience in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Even a little effort in speaking Arabic will go a long way in showing respect and making meaningful connections with locals. So, start practicing even today!