Engage in Palestine’s private Arabic lessons are perfect for students who prefer or need the undivided attention of an instructor in order to better aid in their language acquisition. Our one-on-one private courses are designed to better accommodate each student’s individual needs and tailor fit teaching styles and methodologies. 

The Center offers various Arabic programs, which are ideal for students of Arabic or those interested in embarking on the Arabic language, as well as people of other professions or specializations wishing to learn Arabic as an asset for their field while gaining a wider cultural competency. Such examples of this might include those in international business, history, diplomacy and international relations, or nonprofits and charitable organizations. 

Enrolling in one-on-one Arabic language courses in the West Bank will not only enhance your Arabic skills, but will also provide a uniquely immersive experience in Arab culture and the daily life of Palestinians. Experience gained from spending time in Palestine will also be seen as an invaluable benefit from potential employers, especially those operating in the Middle East; additionally, the ability to converse in Arabic or any other language is an indispensable skill of high value owing to the time and commitment necessary for its acquisition. 

Community Ties

Engage in Palestine is an integral part of the community here in Hebron which allows us to partner with other organizations and operate volunteer workshops for Palestinians on a regular basis. All our programs are designed to aid and assist the Palestinian people here in Hebron, with past examples of workshops having included writing seminars, live performances, heath education lectures, and instructional English classes. 

If interested in learning Arabic while contributing positively to the Palestinian people as a volunteer, please search the plethora of programs we offer, whether it be medicine and healthcare, journalism and media, teaching English, women and children’s rights, fieldwork and research, and even more. Please feel free to explore all of our available opportunities listed under the “Volunteer Programs” tab on our homepage.

In addition to our community ties, Engage in Palestine also conducts regular excursions in Hebron to various historical, cultural, and politically significant sites, as well as to neighboring cities such as Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Jericho, Nablus, Jenin, Nazareth, and Bethlehem. Students may also participate in Center-led missions in refugee camps in order to better understand the contemporary circumstances of Palestine and Palestinians. 

Arabic Varieties on Offer 

Engage in Palestine offers a wide range of Arabic varieties, including Modern Standard (MSA), Classical, and colloquial variants including Palestinian and Levantine dialects (Ammiya); additionally, students may choose to learn a blend of Arabic varieties, such as combining MSA and Palestinian Arabic into their program. We also offer courses in six proficiency levels: Beginner, Elementary Levels 1 and 2, Intermediate Levels 1 and 2, and Advanced. Students in any level of Arabic may choose at which intensity they wish to study, as well, whether they decide to study non-intensively, intensively, or super-intensively. 

Arabic, as many know, is an incredibly diverse language with numerous dialects and subdialects. Before choosing their desired variety of Arabic, we recommend students consider how they intend to use the language and for what future purposes they might need it. For example, those who wish to use Arabic in professional settings will probably find the formal Modern Standard Arabic most beneficial to their goals. Those with an interest in history who intend to decipher primary source materials such as religious and literary texts should probably study Classical Arabic. And finally, those wishing to use Arabic to converse in everyday settings as they travel throughout the region should focus on learning the spoken Palestinian or Levantine dialects. 

For prospective students unsure about which style of Arabic is most suitable for their situation, feel free to reach out to us at Engage in Palestine. We are more than happy to assist students in finding the course that’s right for them. 

Arabic Varieties on Offer: 

• Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) 
• Classical Arabic
• Colloquial Palestinian Arabic 
• Colloquial Levantine Arabic (Ammiya dialect)
• Combination of two varieties 

Course Levels on Offer

No matter your experience level, Engage in Palestine has a variety of Arabic language levels available, in addition to our non-intensive, intensive, and super intensive tracts. 

Beginner 

The Beginner Arabic course is designed for students with absolutely no previous Arabic language experience of any kind. This course will introduce students to basic concepts including the Arabic alphabet, writing systems, grammar fundamentals, phonetics, and common vocabulary and phrases. The Beginner Arabic course will create a strong, linguistic foundation from which students may leap into the diversity and complexity of the Arabic language.

Elementary Level 1

This Arabic course is intended to continue where the previous course left off, building on students’ foundational Arabic language knowledge. This entails the introduction of new vocabulary and slightly more complex grammatical rules into the curriculum, as well as regular reading, writing, and speaking exercises. Upon the completion of this course, students will be able to converse, read, and write about elementary subjects such as shopping, asking for directions, and expressing preferences.

Elementary Level 2

This Arabic immersion course will take the subjects addressed in the Elementary Level 1 course and build on the curricula, expanding into more intricate territory. Generally speaking, this course will diversify vocabulary even further and expand on topics introduced in the previous level. However, the Level 2 course will still focus predominantly on elementary subjects while easing into more complex grammar. 

Intermediate Level 1

This Arabic intermediate course will introduce students into a more immersive curriculum than the previous levels; this will entail venturing into the Palestinian community of Hebron in order to communicate with native speakers and complete everyday tasks. For example, students may be instructed to purchase items from a Palestinian market, order from a restaurant, discuss preferences about a certain topic, or other colloquial activities. Students will also be introduced to subjects in class which touch upon specific issues such as culture, art, and politics, and will learn the vocabulary needed to further converse about these topics in a concise and well-informed manner. 

Intermediate Level 2

This Arabic course level is intended for those possessing an extensive Arabic vocabulary applicable to a wide range of topics and are seeking further immersion in Arabic.  Subsequently, this course level will focus mostly on comprehension in the context of listening, writing, reading, and speaking. This will entail the practical application of Arabic, such as venturing into the Palestinian community of Hebron and interacting with shop keepers and other locals. 

Advanced

This Arabic immersion course will combine all the previous courses’ curriculums, maintaining the immersive nature of the Intermediate levels while also expanding into complex reading, writing, and spoken materials. Additionally, students will conduct research in the community of Hebron on a variety of subjects. With all these methods and materials combined, students will be able to establish a firm understanding and grammatical competency of whichever variety of Arabic they have decided to pursue. Upon completion of this course students will be able to articulate their thoughts and opinions over complex matters such as politics, history, the environment, and the arts of Palestine. 

Course Intensities on Offer

Not to be mistaken with course level itself, course intensities regard the frequency at which classes are held, as well as their level of immersion and the amount of assigned homework. 

Non-Intensive

We recommend students interested in a long-term program of 1-3 months enroll in non-intensive Arabic courses, which will provide them with plenty of in-class instruction (4 hours per day 3 days a week) while still leaving ample time to explore the city of Hebron and immerse themselves in Palestinian culture. 

Intensive

The intensive Arabic course in Palestine is designed to further immerse students in Arabic language and culture. These courses are held 5 days a week for approximately 4 hours each day, giving a total of about 20 hours of instruction per week. Intensive Arabic courses will also add additional homework and out of classroom assignments for participants. 

Super-Intensive

Finally, our super-intensive courses in Palestine are designed for students who are looking for an accelerated Arabic in a completely immersive, high-intensity classroom setting. Super-intensive Arabic courses are conducted 5 days a week at 6 hours of instruction per day, totaling approximately 30 lesson hours per week. We recommend those studying less than a month enroll in this program. 

Which Course is for Me?

If you are having difficulty deciding in which course to enroll, we offer a free placement test to evaluate students’ Arabic language skills in 4 crucial areas: speaking, reading, writing, and listening. We are always happy to consult you if you have any questions regarding course levels or intensity. Our contact information can be found at the bottom of this page, along with our Facebook page and other social media platforms. 

Why Learn Arabic in Palestine? 

Those looking for an Arabic immersion program in country in which interacting with native Arabic speakers on a daily basis is not only possible but inevitable should consider enrolling in Engage in Palestine’s Arabic programs. 

During their time in Hebron, students of Arabic will interact closely with the local community when they explore the city and attend community outreach events hosted by the Center. Additionally, students will have accommodation provided by the Center in which they may choose to stay with a Palestinian host family or in dorms, however host families when available are preferable as this ensures the use of Arabic even while participants are at home. 

Studying Arabic in Hebron will prove to be a rewarding, unforgettable experience to those who enroll. However, if you would prefer to pursue Arabic in a non-native country, consider our sister school The Excellence Center in Europe, located in Halle, Germany. 

Benefits to Studying Arabic in Palestine: 

• Access to a diverse range of Arabic teachers with various specializations
• Daily interaction with the local community of Hebron, as well as the Center’s personal connections within the community
• Homestay accommodation with a Palestinian family or in an all-male dorm in Hebron’s city center
• Access to local shops, businesses, and cultural centers
• Opportunities to visit Palestinian historical sites and areas of political significance such as national parks and refugee camps, along with neighboring cities such as Jerusalem and Bethlehem
• Optional participation in Center-led outreach activities and excursions

Students studying Levantine, Palestinian, or any other variety of Arabic offered by the Center will have unprecedented access to the local community of Hebron and a completely immersive experience!

Who is This Program For? 

This Arabic immersion program is perfect for anyone with a passion for the Arabic language, or have wider interests such as political science, history, or diplomacy of the Middle East in which they need to utilize Arabic to access connections or primary sources documents. Enrolling in private Arabic courses with Engage in Palestine ensures the undivided attention of the instructor while providing language education in a fun, unique way. Students will embark on their Arabic language journey as they immerse themselves completely in Palestinian culture and customs. 

This style of education and level of immersion is an opportunity few other language schools can provide. Additionally, this program is excellent for first-time travelers to the Middle East and especially Palestine who are looking for a bit of structure and logistical support during their journey. Engage in Palestine conducts regular excursions into Hebron and neighboring cities, for which students in this program are welcome to participate. 

Who Can Participate?

The Engage in Palestine does not discriminate on any basis; this includes nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other discernable way. We have a long history of welcoming people from around the globe, from all walks of life, and from all backgrounds and identities. All are welcome!

Previous participants of Engage in Palestine have hailed from the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States! 

Are There Any Criteria for Participants? 

There are only 3 criteria for participants, the first being conversational fluency in either of the program languages (i.e. English or Arabic). Secondly, participants should be between the ages of 18 and 70, though exceptions can be made in special circumstances. And finally, we ask participants to have a positive attitude with an eagerness to learn.

Participant Requirements: 

• Colloquial fluency in English
• 18-70 years of age (unless granted special permission by the Center’s director) 
• A positive attitude and eagerness to learn

Traveling to Hebron

Reaching the Center in Hebron, Palestine will be a long journey, but it need not be arduous. Although there are some obstacles when traveling to Hebron, Engage in Palestine has all the resources you need to reach us in an efficient, safe, and practical manner. Please read our articles below on planning your trip, flying to Palestine, the different routes to Hebron, and Israeli and Palestinian taxi services: 

• How to fly to Palestine
• How to get to Hebron, Palestine
• Planning your trip to Palestine
• How to get from the Ben Gurion Airport (Israel) to Hebron

If you have any further inquiries about travel to Palestine, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. Our contact information can be found at the bottom of this page. 

Living in Palestine

Housing

When staying in Hebron, West Bank, Palestine, you will have the option to reside either with a Palestinian host family or in a dorm; in either case, there are advantages to both. For those staying in a dorm, you will have extra time to become acquainted with other Center participants and volunteers. Additionally, the dorms are located in Hebron’s metropolitan center, providing ample opportunity to explore downtown, either by yourself or with your fellow dorm mates.

The second option available to participants will be to reside with a Palestinian host family. This option will provide participants an intimate view into Palestinian daily life, customs, and culture, while also giving them a chance to become familiar with family structures and taste some of the delicious Palestinian cuisine. It’s also likely that participants residing with a host family will be invited to family gatherings and cultural events, guaranteeing a culturally immersive experience! 

Whichever housing option participants choose, their time in Palestine is sure to be immersive, enriching, and memorable! 

Dress

We at Engage in Palestine advise participants to be mindful of the culture, customs, and society in which you will be living. Palestine is a Muslim-majority country, and as such the style of dress is quite modest. However, Hebron especially tends to be the most conservative city within the West Bank, and therefore both male and female participants should keep in mind certain attire which may come as second nature in other countries are not appropriate here. 

Men should refrain from wearing shorts and tank tops, however short-sleeve shirts are fine just as long as they cover the shoulders. Women, on the other hand, should refrain from wearing short-sleeve shirts, making sure their arms and legs down to their ankles are covered. Cleavage or any low-cut tops are unacceptable, though this may be easily remedied by pairing your favorite camisole with an undershirt or scarf. While it’s common in Western countries for women to wear leggings as pants, skin-tight clothing such as Lycra leggings should not be worn. 

Additionally, participants should best be aware of fluctuating temperatures and weather. While this region is often thought of as rugged desert, Hebron and other cities like Jerusalem are at a higher elevation, making them susceptible to intermediate snowfall during the winter. Even though it is located in the Eastern Mediterranean, temperatures during the fall and winter in Palestine can drop to 3˚C (about 38˚F), with wind and rain continuing into the early springtime. Also be advised that housing materials in this part of the world are quite different from that of most insulated, wooden structures found in the West. Because houses here are mainly built using concrete, it can be quite cold inside even on warm, sunny days. Therefore, it’s best to consider the season in which you will be traveling, but either way pack warm clothing.

Interacting with Palestinian Culture

Participants will find the majority of Palestinian people are incredibly friendly and open to foreigners. If participants utilize their Arabic skills, no matter how developed, they will find most Palestinians are enthusiastic, patient communicators simply pleased that people have taken an interest in their language and culture. 

In addition, Palestine is located at the heart of the Levant (the area associated with the Eastern Mediterranean), providing ample opportunities to visit cultural sights, historical monuments, and many other landmarks. Although Palestine faces difficult circumstances, participants will find the Palestinian people are friendly and open–and Palestine in general is a safe place to visit! 

Don’t Just Take Our Word for It!

If you are having any doubts about the safety of Palestine–or more specifically Hebron–it might be reassuring to know prior to the COVID pandemic, the Center welcomed around 80 participants each year. Since travel into the West Bank has recently resumed, we are seeing a steady return of participants once again. 

You may hear from past volunteers about their experiences while participating at Engage in Palestine under the description of various programs, as well as the testimony below from Archie, a volunteer from the UK:  

“Throughout my stay in Palestine, as a male, I have felt completely safe. I have never felt that I have been in danger. It is safer to walk through Hebron at night than it is to walk through Leeds in the UK.”  

Should you have any questions regarding the program, traveling to and within Palestine, or concerns regarding safety and security, please do not hesitate to reach out! Our contact information can be found at the bottom of this page. 

Program Costs and Information

Priced competitively with other Arabic courses, program costs at Engage in Palestine vary by course intensity. Tuition is charged per week at:

• 370 Euros for non-intensive courses 
• 500 Euros for intensive courses
• 750 Euros for super-intensive courses

Program costs cover language courses, housing, complimentary breakfast each day the participant is at the center, operating costs, and group excursions. There are no other additional or hidden fees applied to these programs; the cost quoted above is the complete and final cost participants will pay.

Program Fees Cover:

• Housing
• Language courses
• Operating costs
• Complimentary breakfast 
• Group excursions into Hebron 

Qualified Teachers

We pride ourselves on our faculty and staff, all of whom are native Palestinian Arabic speakers. However, many of our teachers have varying degrees in related fields such as Teaching Arabic to Non-native Speakers, Teaching Arabic as a Second Language, Arabic Cultural Studies, Arabic Literary Studies, and many others. 

A Unique Experience

Although the Center hosts volunteers and students from all over the world, many people are unaware of the diversity within Palestine, with only a crude understanding of a culture thousands of years old. By enrolling in this program students will take part in a unique experience that is sure to change perspectives and dispel any preconceived notions about Palestine and the wider Arabic-speaking world.

Additionally, the opportunity to live in Hebron with a Palestinian host family will provide students with a level of Arabic immersion that is second to none, creating many opportunities for cross-cultural learning and linguistic immersion. 

In Which Language is the Program Run? 

All of our Arabic immersion programs are geared toward English speakers. However for the sake of immersion, the higher the Arabic course level the less English will be utilized in the classroom. Additionally, students will necessarily need to utilize their Arabic skills to the best of their ability when navigating through Palestine, thereby ensuring a fully immersive experience.

General Information Regarding Program Costs and Components

Additional Pertinent Information:

• 30€ one-time registration fee
• No charge for study materials including books 
• Free placement test
• Certificate of completion
• Monthly program fee covers:
  • Arabic courses
  • Breakfast
  • Housing
  • Center-led excursions in Hebron
  • Operational costs

Program Reviews 

Since 2011, the Engage in Palestine has welcomed individuals from 40 different countries! While we continue to develop our programs to provide the best possible learning experience, for over 10 years the Center’s fundamental mission remains the same: to connect, teach, and advance individuals within the local and international community. In 2019, we received our first “Go Overseas Community Choice Awards” recognizing our meaningful and unforgettable impact on international travelers. 

Additionally, the Engage in Palestine is renowned as one of the best intensive Arabic immersion programs and respected for its cultural immersion, friendly staff and atmosphere, and its commitment to dispelling misconceptions about Palestine and Palestinians. If you are interested in the culture of Palestine and would like to visit the West Bank, please read our program reviews to see if this is the right organization for you:

• +525 reviews (94%) on gooverseas.com
• +100 reviews (96%) on goabroad.com
• Video testimonials

Summary

Our Private Arabic Program in Palestine is an excellent choice for anyone interested in an immersive Arabic experience to maximize their language ability while residing in the bustling city of Hebron. This is also an excellent opportunity for students with wider interests such as political science and international relations to become acquainted with the Middle East on a cultural level while gaining a greater comprehension for their field.  

This Arabic immersion program is especially ideal for university students to gain academic credit towards their degrees while abroad, and for recent graduates to gain experience while building on their Arabic language abilities through immersion. If this sounds like the program for you, reach out to us to begin your linguistic journey!

How to Apply

If you are interested in private Arabic courses, please write to us at Info@ecpalestine.org. We should respond to your initial inquiry within 1-3 business days.

In the subject line of your email, write “Individual Arabic Courses” and we will reply with an application form attached. Please fill this out and return to us to begin the on-boarding process.