Living in Makkah is a strong reason to learn Arabic. It helps with shopping, paperwork and neighbours, and for many residents it brings them closer to the Quran. Options range from a full-time university programme to a weekly class or a few minutes a day on an app.
This guide names one official university institute and otherwise recommends no providers.
Quick answer
Short answer: Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah has an Arabic Language Institute for non-native speakers, with full programmes and a teacher-training department. Admission is once a year through the university’s online portal. For part-time learning, residents use community classes, licensed tutors and apps, and practise daily in shops and with neighbours.
The university institute
According to Umm Al-Qura University, its institute for teaching Arabic to non-native speakers has a department for teaching Arabic and one for training teachers, with separate sections for men and women.
What UQU publishes
- Departments: teaching Arabic to non-native speakers, and training teachers of Arabic.
- Applications: once a year through the university’s admissions portal, online (UQU FAQ).
- Further study: students with excellent results may go on to degree programmes, according to UQU.
Admission conditions and eligibility are set by the university. Read them in full on UQU’s site before applying.
Part-time options
| Option | Good for | Check |
|---|---|---|
| University institute | Full-time, structured study | Admission conditions |
| Community or masjid classes | Low-cost, regular practice | Timings, level |
| Private tutor | Flexible, one to one | Legal hiring, references |
| Apps and online courses | Daily practice | Quality, progress |
If you hire a tutor, our guide to hiring tutors safely explains the legal side.
Building a daily habit
A simple routine
1
Learn the alphabet and sounds first.
2
Pick ten useful words a week: greetings, numbers, food.
3
Use them in shops and with neighbours.
4
Read signs and labels around you.
5
Review weekly with a teacher or app.
Shopping is one of the easiest places to practise. Our shopping guide covers where residents shop.
Children and Arabic
Children often pick up Arabic quickly at school and with friends. Ask schools what support they offer for children new to the language, and read Arabic picture books together at home.
Useful first phrases to learn
- Greetings and thanks
- Numbers and prices
- Directions: left, right, straight
- Days of the week
- Common foods and household items
Classical and everyday Arabic
Many learners study both: classical Arabic for reading the Quran and formal texts, and the local spoken dialect for daily life. Tell any teacher which you want to focus on.
Staying motivated
Progress feels slow at first. Set small goals, notice what you can do now that you could not do last month, and find a study partner if you can.
Practising with the family
Learning together helps. Label household items in Arabic, use simple phrases at meals and let children correct you. They often enjoy it.
Finding classes nearby
Community classes are often shared by word of mouth. Ask at your local masjid, among school parents and at your workplace. Check who runs the class, its level and the timetable before you sign up, and try one session first if you can.
Arabic for work and paperwork
Government services usually offer English, but basic Arabic makes forms, signs and letters easier. Learn the key words you see on documents, such as name, date, address and signature.
FAQ
Is there a university Arabic programme in Makkah?
Yes. Umm Al-Qura University has an Arabic Language Institute for non-native speakers.
When can I apply?
UQU says admission is once a year through its online portal.
Can I learn part-time?
Yes, through community classes, tutors and apps.
Last checked: 22 October 2026.