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If you plan to study abroad in Jordan or the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you’ll want to pick up some of the official language spoken in both countries: Arabic.

While English is widely spoken in both countries, taking the time to learn some Arabic will not only enhance your study abroad experience but also deepen your connection with the local community. 

Let’s get into it! 

Top 5 Arabic Slang Words 

Let’s dive into some essential Arabic slang that can help you feel at home in Jordan and the UAE:

Arabic Slang Word #1: تمام (Tamam)

Meaning: Ok/perfect/all good

A universal response you’ll hear in both Jordan and the UAE when confirming plans or agreeing with someone.

For example: “نلتقي الساعة خمسة؟ تمام!” “Niltaqi al-sa‘a khamsa? Tamam!” (“Meet at five? Perfect!”)

Read More: Eat, Drink, Explore: Amman 

Arabic Slang Word #2: خلص (Khalas)

Meaning: Done/enough/finished

Used constantly when something is completed or when someone wants to end a conversation or decision.

For example: “خلص، انتهينا من الدراسة.” “Khalas, intahayna min al-dirasa.” (“Done, we finished studying.”

Arabic Slang Word #3: يلا (Yalla)

Meaning: Let’s go/hurry up 

You’ll hear this when friends are heading out, starting an activity, or getting excited to explore the city.

For example: “يلا نروح!” “Yalla nroo7!” (“Let’s go!”)

Read More: Eat, Drink, Explore: Abu Dhabi

Arabic Slang Word #4: حلو (Helou)

Meaning: Nice/cool

Used to react to anything from food to weekend plans.

For example: “المكان كثير حلو.” “Al-makan kteer helou.” (“This place is really cool.”)

Arabic Slang Word #5: حبيبي / حبيبتي (Habibi/Habibti)

Meaning: My friend/dear/bro

Used warmly between friends – not just romantically. Expect to hear this from classmates, shop owners, and locals.

For example: “شكراً حبيبي!” “Shukran habibi!” (“Thanks, my friend!”)

Top 5 Arabic Slang Phrases 

Learning common Arabic phrases not only helps you communicate with locals in Jordan and the UAE, but also deepens your cultural understanding, shows respect for residents, and can even help you navigate everyday situations more confidently. Check out these Arabic slang terms you’ll likely hear while studying abroad:

Arabic Slang Phrase #1: : شو عم تعمل؟ (Shu ‘am ta‘mel?)

Meaning: What are you doing?

A super common casual check-in between friends or classmates.

For example:“شو عم تعمل بعد الكلاس؟” “Shu ‘am ta‘mel ba‘d al-class?” (“What are you doing after class?”)
  

Arabic Slang Phrase #2: خلينا نطلع (Khalينا netla‘)

Meaning: Let’s go out

Perfect for making last-minute plans with new friends abroad.

For example:“خلصنا دراسة، خلينا نطلع.” “Khalasna dirasa, khalينا netla‘.” (“We finished studying, let’s go out.”)

Arabic Slang Phrase #3: أنا جوعان جدًا (Ana jo‘an jiddan)

Meaning: I’m really hungry

A phrase you’ll hear constantly after classes or excursions.

For example: “أنا جوعان جدًا، نجيب أكل؟” “Ana jo‘an jiddan, njeeb akel?” (“I’m starving, should we get food?”)

Arabic Slang Phrase #4: شو رأيك؟ (Shu ra’yak?)

Meaning: What do you think?

Used when deciding plans, trips, or restaurants with friends.

For example: ““نروح الكافيه الجديد؟ شو رأيك؟” “Nrooh al-cafe al-jadeed? Shu ra’yak?” (“Should we try the new café? What do you think?”)

Arabic Slang Phrase #5: ما عندي فكرة (Ma ‘indi fikra)

Meaning: I have no idea

Very common student response in casual conversation.

For example: “وين الصف؟” “ما عندي فكرة.” “Wain al-saff?” “Ma ‘indi fikra.” (“Where’s the class?” / “I have no idea.”)

Take Your Studies to the Middle East

Even if you begin with a handful of slang Arabic words and expand your vocabulary over time, each new term becomes a key to unlocking the history of the Arab world. Immerse yourself in the incredible experiences that await you! 

EXPLORE PROGRAMS IN THE MIDDLE EAST