So, you’ve decided to learn Egyptian Arabic and want to immerse yourself in the language and culture of the country. Mabrook! With plenty of Arabic language programs in Egypt to choose from, you’ve chosen one of the best countries to learn Arabic abroad. Here, whether you choose to stay for a month and learn Arabic in Cairo or stay for a year and learn Arabic in Egypt University or the Arabic Institute, Egypt fits everyone’s schedule.


Why Should Go All the Way to Egypt to Study?

Sure you can take Arabic classes online from home. However, you miss out on some of the best parts of learning Arabic when you learn Arabic online – Egypt and its history, culture and people!  The Egyptian dialect is somewhat easier to learn than Modern Standard Arabic. Still, the alphabet is different and how to know if you pronounce the words correctly will be a bit harder. Thus, learning Arabic at home all alone can be stressful for some.

On the other hand, immersing yourself in the language will make it a bit easier for you. You’ll have a teacher who’s a native speaker. You’ll have more chances to practice your new language. Thus, you’ll have a much more rewarding experience actually using the language you’ve learned.

Plus, many programs offer the chance to get out and see the countries that are included in the costs.  Just think, this time next year you can be posting pictures on social media of you in from of the Sphinx or cruising down the Nile.


The Best Places to Learn Arabic in Egypt

You’ll find a majority of Arabic languages schools in Egypt are located in its capital, Cairo. However, Alexandria is also a good second choice for learning Arabic in the country. The world-famous Nile River runs through both cities. However, the weather in Cairo is hotter and dryer than the more temperate Alexandria. Just something to think about if you’re not into hot and dry weather most of the year. 


Getting with a Program

There are many factors to think about when deciding on which program to choose that work best for you. However, we advise that you choose your Arabic language program based on the type of course and how long it is. Some language schools offer bigger discounts the longer your program is.  On the other hand, the longer you stay, the more you’ll be paying for living quarters. For example, if you’re taking an intensive course that lasts only a couple of weeks, a hotel might be cheaper than an apartment. And that works vice versa. Likewise, one-on-one classes with a private tutor might cost a little more than a series of classes at a language academy. In the end, it’s really all about what you want to get out of your class and what you can afford to do to reach that goal.  


Diving Into Egyptian Culture

Until you’ve really gotten past the basics of Arabic, you’ll be able to speak English to survive. At most popular tourist places in Egypt speak English. However, the main language is Arabic so take advantage of this chance to practice what you’ve learned even when you’re out having fun.

If you’re not good at bargaining, learn to be. In stores, taxis, and markets, you’ll likely have to bargain for whatever it is you’re buying. However, try to see it as fun instead of daunting, After all, the Egyptian you’re bargaining with is having fun, too. With that said, keep your price reasonable and stay firm with it. Also, don’t be afraid to walk away. Don’t carry big bills around with you. Not only is it not safe to flash all that cash around, with smaller bills you’ll find it easier to pay for goods and services. Finally, be careful when out on the streets because won’t stop for you. You have been forewarned!


Show Them the Money

Speaking of money, you’re probably thinking about how much the cost of studying Arabic in Egypt is really going be.  Well, in fact, the cost of studying Arabic in Egypt is somewhat cheap when compared to other countries. For example, a private tutor will only cost you about 5 bucks an hour. On the other hand,  group classes may only set you back $25 a month.

What’s more, some programs offer package deals that include room and board with your tuition. Of course, the price of these will vary depending on how long you plan to stay and study in Egypt. However, as an example, two weeks at 25 hours a week without room and board may cost you about $500. At the same time, four weeks with 120 hours total class time and room and board might cost you a little over $1,000. As with everything that seems too good to be true, read the fine print and check for hidden fees.

Even more, study abroad programs sponsored by universities include flights, excursions, tuition, and room and board. The good news is, though these might be outside of your budget, if you want to study Arabic in Egypt, scholarships are an option.  These are available through government sponsored Critical Language Scholarships that will pay for everything. Likewise, some third party businesses and institutions also offer a variety of funding and scholarships for certain costs. A quick Google search will give you an idea of just how many opportunities are out there.

Finally, if you’ve opted to learn Arabic online, Egypt might seem so far away. However it doesn’t have to. With the Kaleela Arabic language learning app, we take you step by step through learning Egyptian Arabic and culture in a way that’s so easy, you’ll feel like you just got back from Cairo when you’ve complete each lesson. Find out more on how you can learn Egyptian Arabic or any of our other Arabic dialects along with MSA. Check it now!


Kaleela – Learn Arabic the Right Way!