Arabic Travel Phrases for Tourists

If you're planning a trip to an Arabic-speaking country, learning a few basic Arabic Travel phrases for tourists can completely transform your travel experience. You don't need to be fluent — just a handful of essential Arabic words for travelers will help you connect with locals, navigate cities, and enjoy your trip with more confidence.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the most useful Arabic expressions every traveler should know. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some cultural tips to help you make the best impression while visiting!

Arabic is one of the most spoken languages in the world, with over 300 million native speakers. Whether you're visiting Egypt, Morocco, the UAE, Jordan, or any other Arab country, a few friendly words in Arabic can go a long way.

Knowing some Arabic phrases for travel helps you:

• Break the ice with locals.

• Show respect for the culture.

• Navigate easier in markets, hotels, and taxis.

• Avoid misunderstandings.

• Gain deeper access to authentic local experiences.

Even a simple greeting in Arabic can open doors you didn’t even know existed!

Let’s dive into the most useful Arabic phrases for tourists. We'll keep it simple, practical, and traveler-friendly!

Greeting someone properly is a huge deal in Arab cultures. Here are the must-know Arabic greetings:

• Hello – Marhaba (مرحبا)

• Peace be upon you – As-salamu alaykum (السلام عليكم)
  (The reply: "Wa alaykum as-salam" - وعليكم السلام.)

• Good morning – Sabah el-kheer (صباح الخير)

• Good evening – Masa’ el-kheer (مساء الخير)

• Goodbye – Ma’a as-salama (مع السلامة)

• Please – Min fadlak (من فضلك) (to a man), Min fadlik (لأنثى)

• Thank you – Shukran (شكرا)

• You're welcome – Afwan (عفوا)

• Yes – Na’am (نعم)

• No – La (لا)

 Cultural Tip: Handshakes are common but often lighter than in Western cultures. Also, between men and women, wait to see if the local person offers a handshake first.

When you're navigating a new city, these Arabic phrases for tourists are absolute essentials:

• Where is...? – Ayna... (أين…؟)

• How much does it cost? – Kam thamanoh? (كم ثمنه؟)

• I want to go to... – Ureed an athhab ila... (أريد أن أذهب إلى…)

• Left / Right / Straight – Yasar / Yameen / 'Ala tool (يسار / يمين / على طول)

• Bus / Taxi / Train – Hafilah / Taxi / Qitar (حافلة / تاكسي / قطار)

 Tip: Always agree on the taxi fare before starting the ride, unless the driver uses a meter.

If you’re visiting colorful souks or markets, bargaining is expected — and kind of fun! Here’s your shopping survival kit:

• How much is this? – Bikam hatha? (بكم هذا؟)

• Can you lower the price? – Hal yumkin an tukhafidh al-thaman? (هل يمكن أن تخفض الثمن؟)

• It’s too expensive! – Ghali jiddan! (غالي جدا!)

• I’ll take it. – Saa’khudhuhu (سآخذه)

• Discount – Takhfeedh (تخفيض)

Fun Fact: Smiling and joking during bargaining often gets you a better price!

Trying local food is half the adventure! Here are key dining phrases:

• Menu, please. – Al-qaa'ima, min fadlak. (القائمة، من فضلك.)

• I am vegetarian. – Ana nabaty. (أنا نباتي.)

• No meat, please. – Bidoon lahem, min fadlak. (بدون لحم، من فضلك.)

• Water – Maa' (ماء)

• Tea – Shay (شاي)

• Coffee – Qahwa (قهوة)

• Bill, please. – Al-fatoora, min fadlak. (الفاتورة، من فضلك.)

 Tip: In many Arab countries, it's common for meals to be shared. Don’t hesitate to ask what's recommended!

Better safe than sorry! Here’s what you should know:

• Help! – Al-Mosada! (المساعدة)

• I need a doctor. – Ahtaj ila tabeeb. (أحتاج إلى طبيب.)

• Call the police. – Ittasil bilshurta. (اتصل بالشرطة.)

• I am lost. – Dalaltu tareeqi. (ضللت طريقي.)

 Keep the embassy number saved in your contacts just in case!

Here are a few extra useful Arabic expressions to help you be even more prepared:

• Excuse me / Sorry – Afwan / Aasef (عفواً / آسف)

• Do you speak English? – Hal tatakallam al-ingleeziya? (هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟)

• I don’t understand. – Ana la afham. (أنا لا أفهم.)

• I’m looking for… – Abhath an... (أبحث عن...)

Traveler’s Tip: Even if locals speak English, starting in Arabic (even a few words) will make them warm up to you much faster

• Modesty matters. Dress respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites.

• Fridays are holy days — expect many businesses to open late or close.

• Hospitality is sacred. If you’re invited for tea, accept! It’s a sign of honor.

• Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon — keep it subtle

Here’s how to quickly pick up these essential Arabic words for travelers:

• Use language apps like ArabicPod101, Memrise, or Duolingo.

• Listen to Arabic travel podcasts.

• Watch short YouTube videos focused on Arabic phrases for tourists.

• Flashcards! They still work like magic.

• Practice with a friend or tutor if you can.

Tip: Play Arabic songs or shows in the background while doing chores. Your brain picks up words passively!

Mastering a handful of Arabic travel phrases is a small effort that brings huge rewards. Locals will appreciate your respect for their language and culture, and your trip will feel much richer and more authentic.

Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, don’t worry — your genuine effort is what counts.

So pack your bags, bring your smile, and sprinkle a little Arabic magic into your adventures.
Yalla bina! (Let’s go!)