How Does Language Basics Work in UAE?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Middle East
1The Quick Answer
Arabic is the official language, but English is so widely spoken in tourism and business that there is effectively no language barrier for visitors.
2What You Need to Know
Arabic is the UAE's official language, but with expatriates making up around 88% of the population, English functions as the everyday working language across tourism, business, retail, and hospitality. Virtually all signs, menus, and official communications are in both Arabic and English. Taxi drivers, hotel staff, and shop workers almost universally speak English. Emirati Arabic has its own distinct dialect that differs from Egyptian or Levantine Arabic. Learning a few basic Arabic greetings ("As-salamu alaykum" for hello, "Shukran" for thank you) is appreciated and warmly received by locals.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Say "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you) as a greeting — locals genuinely appreciate the effort
- 2"Shukran" (thank you) and "Inshallah" (God willing, used to mean hopefully/maybe) are the two most useful Arabic words
- 3English is sufficient for every tourist situation in the UAE — translation apps are unnecessary for most visitors
How does this compare?
Language Basics rules in nearby and similar countries:
English is widely spoken in tourist areas — but learning 'shukran' (thank you) and 'la shukran' (no thank you) will serve you well every day.
French is more useful than English in most of Morocco — learn a few words of Darija (Moroccan Arabic) and you will receive a genuinely warm reception.
Arabic is the official language; English is widely spoken in hotels, tourist areas, and business settings, though less prevalent in Riyadh than in Jeddah.
Traveling to UAE?
You might also need:
Airalo eSIM
Instant eSIM for 190+ countries. Set up before you leave — no physical SIM card needed.
Pocket WiFi Rental
Unlimited mobile internet in your pocket. Rent a WiFi hotspot device for your entire trip.
SafetyWing Travel Insurance
Medical coverage for travelers worldwide. Covers emergency care, hospital stays, and evacuation.
More About UAE
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10–15% at restaurants is standard. Round up for taxis.
Updated 2025-01
Dubai has an excellent metro and buses. Buy a Nol Card for all public transport in Dubai. Abu Dhabi has buses but no metro yet.
Updated 2025-01
Healthcare quality is excellent but expensive. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Many hospitals have English-speaking staff.
Updated 2025-01
The UAE has strict laws around alcohol, public behavior, drugs, and dress. What is legal in your home country may be a criminal offense here.
Updated 2025-01
Police: 999. Ambulance: 998. Fire: 997. Tourist Police (Dubai): 800-4438.
Updated 2025-01
Dress modestly in public. Shoulders and knees should be covered in malls, markets, and public areas. Swimwear is only for beaches and pools.
Updated 2025-01
🗣️ See Language Basics rules in all countries
Compare all countries →