Most UAE life runs in English. But a few Arabic greetings and thanks visibly shift local reactions — especially in government offices, family-run shops, and taxis.
Basic greetings (the essential five)
| Situation | English | Arabic (pronunciation) |
|---|---|---|
| On meeting | Hello | As-salaam alaikum |
| Reply to above | (same meaning) | Wa-alaikum as-salaam |
| On leaving | Goodbye | Ma'a salama |
| Thanks | Thank you | Shukran |
| You're welcome | You're welcome | Afwan |
As-salaam alaikum literally means "peace be upon you." It's religion-neutral in daily use and one of the most universally well-received gestures a foreigner can offer.
Common phrases to recognise (even if you don't use them)
| Arabic (pronunciation) | Meaning | When you'll hear it |
|---|---|---|
| Insha'allah | If God wills / maybe | Attached to nearly every future-tense statement. Not a confirmation. |
| Yani | I.e. / so | Common mid-explanation filler |
| Wallahi | I swear to God | Emphasis |
| Masha'allah | As God willed (praise) | On seeing something beautiful or good |
| Alhamdulillah | Praise be to God | Reply to "how are you?" among other uses |
| Khalas | Done / enough | Closing a conversation |
| Yalla | Let's go / hurry | The most commonly heard word |
Warning: the "insha'allah" trap
When someone says "I'll see you tomorrow at 2, insha'allah":
- Nuance = "maybe / if granted", not a confirmation
- Especially with government officials, re-confirm by phone or email the day before
- If you need certainty, reinforce it yourself: "Will you confirm by email tomorrow?"
Safe one-phrase moves
| Situation | What to say |
|---|---|
| Getting in a taxi | As-salaam alaikum |
| Paying at a small shop | Shukran (after payment) |
| With a government officer | As-salaam alaikum + Shukran |
| Meeting an Emirati national | As-salaam alaikum (strongly recommended) |
Pronunciation tips
- As-salaam: "as-salaam" — not "as-salam". Hard "s" sound.
- Shukran: roughly phonetic as written.
- Wa-alaikum: say it quickly — "wah-alay-koom"
- Even imperfect pronunciation lands well — locals appreciate the attempt over the accuracy.
Numbers (only if you want)
| # | Arabic | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | واحد | Waahid |
| 2 | اثنان | Ithnaan |
| 3 | ثلاثة | Thalaatha |
| 5 | خمسة | Khamsa |
| 10 | عشرة | Ashara |
| 100 | مئة | Mi'a |
→ Numbers in English are universally understood. No need to memorise.
Gestures and words to avoid
- Handing things with your left hand: in Islam, the left hand is considered unclean for giving. Always right hand or both hands.
- Showing the sole of your foot: pointing foot soles at others is rude.
- Religious jokes: never about Islam or the Prophet. Can be a criminal offence for insult.