Languages in the United Arab Emirates

Arabic

The official language of the United Arab Emirates is Arabic, and it’s the language of the country's constitution.  It is the language spoken by the locals, as well as the language of government.  Arabic is the medium of instruction in all public schools in the county, and is also taught at many private schools at the elementary school level.  Signboards are displayed in both Arabic and English.

Although Arabic is the official language, there have been concerns raised by locals about the " invasion" of foreign languages in many government establishments.  The federal government has recently decided to strongly enforce the use of Arabic in government establishments in lieu of English.

English

You don’t have to know a word of the local language to visit the country.  Locals usually will speak at least a smattering of English, enough to communicate with the numerous expatriates who live here, as well as the million of tourists and medical tourism visitors who visit every year.  Expatriates end up learning at least a little Arabic during their tenure in the county, but they use English for travel and business. 

There are a number of langue learning centers where expatriates and locals throng to learn not the local language, but English.  There is a huge demand here for English speaking courses, especially in Dubai which has billions of dollars in foreign investment coming in.  English is also the language of tourism, including medical tourism, and you'll find the staff at your hospital is likely to consist of Western educated, English-speaking personnel.

Other Languages

The large expatriate population in this medical tourism hub has meant that the languages brought by Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, and Filipinos have found a place here.  They are not spoken in any official capacity, however. 

Medical Tourism Articles	Medical Tourism Blogs
Advertise With Us