9 Intensive Arabic Courses In The Middle East in 2026/2027: Arabic is a vibrant language stretching back many centuries and intertwined with a unique culture and history. For several reasons, including cultural, business, academic, or personal interests, having Arabic-speaking relatives, or simply enjoying the language, Arabic can be an advantageous language to learn.
One of the best ways to learn any language is via immersion in a country where the language is spoken. All across the Middle East and North Africa, numerous short-term and long-term Arabic language programs are available in various dialects. When choosing where to study, it is first essential to decide which dialect you wish to learn.
Once you have chosen the dialect, you can look at the available programs. If you wish to learn and develop your Arabic proficiency quickly, taking a short-term intensive Arabic course can help you do this.
Keep reading to learn more about why choosing an intensive mode is beneficial for studying Arabic, why learning in the Middle East is better than learning in your home country, where you can study intensive Arabic in the Middle East, and more.
Table of Contents
Why Choose An Intensive Course For Studying Arabic?
For several reasons, taking an intensive Arabic language course is more advantageous and beneficial than a regular-paced Arabic course.
More Opportunities For Immersion And Practice
Firstly, intensive programs provide students with more opportunities for immersion and practice, as classes are typically held 4-5 times a week for several hours each. At the same time, a regular language course might only be taught 1-2 times per week for 1-2 hours each session.
Develop Your Skills And Arabic Proficiency More Rapidly
Secondly, students will need to commit and dedicate several additional hours per day to study to keep up with the fast-paced nature of their course. This can allow students to make faster progress and significantly speed up the development of their speaking, listening, writing, and reading skills.
Opportunities For Immersive Activities Outside The Classroom
Thirdly, intensive courses may provide immersive activities that can include excursions, trips, cultural outings, cooking classes, or homestays, which give students more chances to use the language in real-life settings, as well as increasing their cultural awareness.
Seeing Your Progress Motivates You To Continue
Finally, taking a short-term intensive Arabic course can help a student’s motivation to continue learning. One of the biggest reasons that language learners give up is a lack or loss of motivation when they don’t see quick progress. An intensive course will show students in a very short period of time the progress they can make with dedication, commitment, and effort.
Why Taking A Course In The Middle East Is Better Than Your Home Country?
Taking an intensive Arabic course in the Middle East can be an immensely gratifying opportunity that you won’t be able to find in your home country. There are several advantages to studying Arabic in the Middle East compared to learning it in your home country. Here we will outline the two main reasons.
Learn A Spoken Arabic Dialect Instead Of Modern Standard Arabic
Many universities, language schools, and other institutions around the world only teach Modern Standard Arabic. While this can be very useful in the proper context, it is not a language that is spoken in daily life by Arab peoples. So if your primary goal with Arabic is to communicate with others, it is better to learn a spoken dialect.
It can be difficult, however, to access courses or teachers to facilitate your learning of a spoken dialect in your home country. This means that the best way to learn a spoken dialect is to immerse yourself in the language by going where it is spoken.
The Opportunity To Learn More Rapidly Through Linguistic And Cultural Immersion
Studying Arabic in the Middle East will give students the chance to fully immerse themselves in the Arabic dialect of their choice as well as the culture and daily life of their chosen destination. This benefits not only your language learning, but it may also enrich your personal life as well as your career prospects.
Additionally, by living and studying in the Middle East, you can make friends with your fellow students as well as with locals, so you can continue practicing Arabic long after you’ve left the Middle East.
Intensive Arabic In The Maghreb Region
The Maghreb (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya) can be an exciting choice to study Arabic, given the rich history that mixes Arab, Berber, and many other influences. French, British, Spanish, and Italian colonialism and Western imperialism have also left lasting impacts, including on the history, culture, infrastructure, and languages of this region.
One reason this region is so appealing is that there are some fantastic historical sites, especially in Tunisia, where you can find the remains of Ancient Carthage. There is also much diversity and a range of fascinating cultures, cuisine, and architecture here, and it can be quite an affordable destination.
The main issue with studying Arabic here is that other Arabic speakers do not easily understand the dialects spoken in the Maghreb. So, depending on your goals with Arabic, you may have trouble transferring your Arabic skills to different regions.
Intensive Arabic In Egypt
Egypt, also located in North Africa, can be a suitable choice for studying Arabic. Egypt is world-famous for its ancient monuments, architectural and anthropological sites, as well as its history. Additionally, Egyptian Arabic is one of the most popular Arabic dialects due to the large population of Egypt, and the prevalence and popularity of Egyptian films, series, and music throughout the Arab World.
However, there are also a few disadvantages; for example, big cities in Egypt can be bustling and have high levels of pollution. Egypt also attracts many tourists, which may detract a little from having a fully immersive Arabic-learning environment. Finally, while other Arabic speakers widely understand Egyptian Arabic, you may have some difficulties understanding other Arabic dialects.
Intensive Arabic In The Gulf States
The Gulf Region (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE) primarily speaks a dialect of Arabic known as Khaliji. Learning Arabic here can be a good option if you are interested in business or professional Arabic, as the Gulf is a wealthy area with many lucrative jobs. If you can speak the dialect along with formal Fus’ha (i.e., Modern Standard Arabic), you will be well placed to secure a well-paid job in this interesting area.
It is also important to note that the Gulf is generally very hot and humid, so be prepared! There are also many expatriates and migrant workers in the Gulf, which means English is widely spoken, so it’s not the most immersive environment you can find.
Intensive Arabic In The Levantine Region
For most Arabic students, the best place to learn Arabic is in the Levant or Levantine Region (Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria). This is because Levantine Arabic (also known as Shami Arabic) is the most widely recognizable dialect of the language, with most Arabic speakers worldwide being able to understand it. The Levant is also a really fascinating part of the Middle East, encompassing the Holy Land and part of the Cradle of Civilization.
However, there can be some difficulties in this region. For example, it’s not very feasible to study Arabic in Syria this time due to several factors, including ongoing security concerns and devastating US sanctions. Lebanon is experiencing a severe financial and economic crisis, making it more challenging to study there than it used to be. While Gaza isn’t accessible to tourists or students due to the ongoing Israeli blockade and siege, the West Bank of Palestine and Jordan are much more stable options.
Advice For Finding A Quality And Trustworthy Organization To Take A Course With
When looking for an organization to study Arabic with, be sure to do your research thoroughly before signing up for a program. Firstly, make sure you read the program description carefully and that it meets your needs.
Next, make sure to choose an organization with good reviews and testimonials from former students. This will help ensure that the organization is of high quality and trustworthy, and that the experience you are promised will be matched or exceeded by what you receive in reality. This is especially important because you will likely be investing a significant portion of time and money in your intensive Arabic program.
Incredible Flexibility
We offer much flexibility to our Arabic students. You can choose the duration of your Arabic course (1-13 weeks) and the start and finish dates that suit you. You can also choose the intensity and dialect you would like for your course. If you would like to extend your program or increase the number of hours for your Arabic lessons, we can also accommodate you.
One-on-one Or Small Group Classes
Depending on availability and your preferences, our Arabic classes are taught either one-on-one or in small groups (2-5 students). This is a huge advantage over larger class sizes because it allows your Arabic teacher to adopt a more personalized and attentive approach, and it also affords you far more chances to practice Arabic and to feel more comfortable.
List of Shami (Ammiya) Dialect Intensive Programs
Here you can check out which Levantine Arabic programs Engage in Palestine offers:
1. Intensive Palestinian Arabic Program
Intensive Palestinian Arabic Program: Study Palestinian Arabic School offers a variety of courses in Palestinian Arabic. These include intensive Palestinian Arabic courses, winter Arabic programs, summer Arabic programs, and online Palestinian Arabic programs. This is a unique opportunity for individuals who wish to learn the colloquial Palestinian dialect of Arabic (Ammiya or Levantine dialect), connect with the broader Palestinian diaspora, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Palestine and the Levant region.
These lessons include Intensive Palestinian Arabic Courses, Summer and Winter Palestinian Arabic Programs, and Online Palestinian Arabic Lessons. Students have the chance to study 20 hours of instruction per week. With this format, students can quickly acquire Arabic skills and complete a full 80-hour course in just four weeks.
2. Winter Palestinian Arabic Program
Winter Palestinian Arabic Program: Explore our Arabic Winter Immersion Course in Palestine at Study Palestinian Arabic School, located in Hebron, West Bank. We offer courses in Palestinian Arabic Ammiya dialect, Levantine (Shami Arabic), and Modern Standard Arabic. Lying in the heart of the Levant, the West Bank is a captivating destination to explore the language’s rich history and culture.
Our Winter Immersion Course in Palestine is designed to enhance your Arabic language skills through interactive lessons led by experienced Palestinian instructors. Outside of the classroom, you’ll have the chance to practice your language skills in authentic settings, engaging with local Palestinians and participating in cultural activities.
3. Summer Arabic Immersion Program in Palestine
Summer Arabic Program: The Arabic Summer Immersion Program is an excellent opportunity for those seeking an intensive Arabic course during the summer in the West Bank, Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Israel, or the broader Middle East region. Recognized as one of the top Arabic language schools in Palestine, our Study Palestinian Arabic School offers enriching summer Palestinian Arabic courses suitable for all learners.
Whatever your reason, if you’re interested in learning Levantine Arabic (Shami dialect), our Summer Palestinian Arabic Immersion Program is for you. With options for super-intensive and intensive immersion summer programs in dialects such as Levantine (Ammiya), Palestinian colloquial Arabic, and Modern Standard Arabic, Study Palestinian Arabic School welcomes all guests seeking to learn this beautiful language. Our students include undergraduates, graduates, professionals, and even retirees with abilities ranging from beginner to advanced.
4. Intensive Jordanian Arabic Program
Our Intensive Jordanian Arabic Program in Amman, Jordan, is designed to accelerate your language learning through complete cultural and linguistic immersion. We offer year-round courses in Jordanian and Levantine Colloquial Arabic (Ammiyya), as well as Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). Online lessons are also available for those seeking more flexibility. For a more customized experience, we provide personalized courses tailored to your specific learning goals.
Our courses offer flexibility in both duration and timing, running from one to thirteen weeks and available year-round—spring, summer, fall, and winter. Whether you’re looking for a short, intensive Arabic program in Amman or elsewhere in the Middle East, or prefer a more extended stay to immerse yourself in the language and culture, we’re here to help you find the experience that fits your goals.
5. Summer Intensive Jordanian Arabic Program
Summer Intensive Jordanian Arabic in Amman provides an excellent opportunity for those interested in deepening their proficiency in Levantine Arabic or Ammiyya Arabic (اللهجة الشامية او العامية), spoken across a variety of regions, including Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and the broader Middle East. Recognized as one of the leading Arabic language schools in Jordan, we are committed to delivering high-quality, culturally immersive Arabic education.
Our Summer Intensive Arabic program provides a range of study options for Arabic dialects tailored to different goals and proficiency levels. Choose from intensive or super-intensive courses in Levantine (Ammiya), Jordanian colloquial Arabic, or Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), and gain language skills in a dynamic, supportive environment rooted in an authentic regional context.
6. Winter Jordanian Arabic Program
Winter Jordanian Arabic Program offers an exceptional opportunity for learners looking to deepen their proficiency in Levantine or Ammiyya Arabic (اللهجة الشامية او العامية), spoken across regions such as Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and the broader Middle East. As one of Jordan’s leading Arabic language schools, we are dedicated to providing high-quality instruction grounded in cultural immersion and meaningful community engagement.
Studying Arabic in Jordan during the winter offers a unique and enriching experience. You’ll explore the vibrant culture of Amman, enjoy the renowned warmth of Jordanian hospitality, and form lasting connections with the local community. Jordanians are known for their friendliness and generosity, creating an environment where students feel welcomed and encouraged to engage with the language and culture every day.
7. Intensive Syrian Arabic Program
Intensive Syrian Arabic Program in Damascus, at Study Syrian Arabic School offers a unique chance to learn the Syrian dialect through full immersion in Damascus. As one of the most widely spoken Arabic dialects, mastering Syrian Arabic provides access not only to Syria but to much of the Arabic-speaking world.
Courses emphasize colloquial language and practical communication, helping students quickly gain real-world proficiency. In addition to reading and listening skills, students learn to speak and write using Syrian phonetics. All levels are available, with topics focused on daily life in Damascus. Students can also stay with host families for deeper cultural immersion.
8. Syrian Summer Arabic Program
Syrian Summer Arabic Program in Damascus offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Levantine (Shami) dialect, Syrian colloquial Arabic, or Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) while experiencing the rich cultural and historical landscape of Syria. Hosted in Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, this program is ideal for learners at all levels, from complete beginners to advanced students.
Whether you’re a university student, professional, or retiree, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive environment at Study Syrian Arabic School. Our experienced instructors and immersive curriculum ensure that your summer in Syria is both academically enriching and personally transformative.
9. Winter Syrian Arabic Program
The Winter Syrian Arabic Program in Damascus offers a rich opportunity to study Arabic in the heart of the Levant—Damascus, Syria. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced learner, this immersive program is designed to help you develop fluency in Syrian Colloquial Arabic, Levantine (Shami) Arabic, or Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) while experiencing the warmth of Syrian hospitality and the depth of its cultural heritage.
Running throughout December, January, and February, the program is ideal for students, professionals, and lifelong learners seeking a meaningful winter experience that combines language learning with cultural exploration. With small class sizes, experienced instructors, and cultural experiences that extend beyond the classroom, our Winter Immersion Course in Syria offers a fulfilling experience that goes beyond the textbooks.
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In Conclusion
One of the best dialects to learn is Levantine Arabic, as it is the closest to Modern Standard Arabic and is therefore the most recognizable dialect. An excellent organization for studying Levantine Arabic is Engage in Palestine, located in Hebron, West Bank, Palestine.
At Engage in Palestine, students will learn Arabic in a friendly, welcoming, and immersive environment. Students will be supported by their Arabic teacher to foster their learning in one-on-one or small group classes.
Engage in Palestine offers students a lot of flexibility and options for their short-term Arabic course. For example, students get to choose the course intensity, which type of Arabic they would like to study (from those on offer), as well as the length of their program (from 1-13 weeks) and the start and end dates.
This is in addition to a host of other benefits, such as a daily included breakfast (except Fridays), pre-arranged and included accommodation, included trips and tours of the local area, and much more. Students will also have many chances to make friends with our other international participants, as well as locals.
We hope to receive you at Engage in Palestine soon for one of our short-term intensive Arabic programs!
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Tags: Arabic language study abroad programs, Best Arabic immersion programs in the Middle East, intensive Arabic courses in Palestine, Learn Arabic intensively in the Middle East
