Learn Arabic

Master both standard and colloquial (spoken) Arabic, a global language of diplomacy and culture, and the official language of the UAE, many Arab nations, and several African countries. Spoken in 22 Middle-Eastern countries with a population of about 250 million and used in numerous non-Arab Muslim countries with a billion people, Arabic is indispensable for Islamic studies, comparative theology, Middle-Eastern studies, international law, political sciences, and international business due to its fast growth and UN recognition.

Learn Arabic with

Bilal Al-Omar

Senior Lecturer
Ph.D. Arabic Language with a focus on Post-colonial and Comparative Literature, The World Islamic Sciences and Education, University in Amman, Jordan

Bilal Al-Omar is a senior lecturer of Arabic in the African Languages and Translation Program at the Africa Institute. Prior to this role, Al-Omar was a Lecturer of Arabic Language and Literature at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York (2017 to 2022). He has taught a diverse range of courses at Cornell University including Modern Arabic Literature, Current Events in Arabic Media, Elementary Arabic I/II, Intermediate Arabic I/II, and Advanced Arabic I/II. Currently, Al-Omar is working on a website dedicated to teaching modern Arabic literature to non-Arabic speakers as well as curating a dictionary with over 10,000 keywords.

On Completion of This Program, You Will Acquire

• Language Proficiency: Develop the skills to speak, read, and write an African language, enabling effective communication with native speakers and enriching your understanding of authentic texts from the target culture.
• Cultural Understanding: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural landscapes of the African continent, fostering cultural sensitivity and creating opportunities for engagement with diverse communities.
• Global Career Opportunities: Gain a valuable skill that enhances your career prospects. Language proficiency is highly sought after in various professional fields, including translation and interpretation, international relations, social services, and business.

Certification

Upon successful completion, you will receive recognized certificates from The Africa Institute, Global Studies University, licensed by the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA).

Mode of Learning & Levels Offered

• Elementary I – for new students
• Intermediate I – for continuing and new students
• Advanced I – for continuing and new students

*To enroll in intermediate and advanced level courses, students are required to complete a placement test to ensure they meet the necessary prerequisites. This assessment is free of charge.

Course Format and Schedule

• Registration Deadline: Thursday, August 28, 2025
• Course Duration: 12 weeks of instruction from September 1 to November 27, 2025
• Total hours: 36 hours (24 sessions × 1.5 hours)
• Timezone: Gulf Standard Time
• Class frequency: Twice a week, Monday to Thursday
• Session length: 1.5 hours per class
• Fall Break: October 13–16, 2025 (no classes)

Tuition Fees

• Tuition Fee per hour: AED 40
• Tuition Fees per 36 hours (one semester): AED 1,440

Avail Special Discounts

• 10% discount available for students who register for one level course of 60 hours or more
• 10% discount available for participants registering multiple family members

Get in Touch

For any queries or more information, please contact languages@theafricainstitute.org.