Pack your bags — and your Arabic! Arabic: Language for Travel is a practical A1 course that helps you speak with confidence on holiday or work trips. Over two consecutive Saturdays at IH London, you’ll practice the phrases that matter through role-plays, guided conversations and real travel scenarios. 

You’ll leave with a “survival Arabic” toolkit: high-frequency vocabulary, clearer pronunciation, and easy strategies to keep talking even when you can’t remember the exact word. 

Why study Arabic at IH London? 

Arabic is one of the world’s most widely spoken languages and a valuable skill for travel, culture and international communication. It can also open doors to meaningful connections across a wide range of countries and communities.

At International House London, you’ll learn with expert teachers and dynamic, interactive lessons that help you build real communication skills quickly and naturally — with plenty of guided speaking practice from day one. 

What’s included in your course? 

• Lesson summaries, notes and learning resources 

• Additional self-study materials 

• Ongoing support from experienced teachers 

• Access to exclusive IH London student workshops and events

This course is ideal for learners who want practical Arabic for travel, including: 

• students who have studied very little Arabic but want to use it more confidently 
• beginners who want a focused “holiday Arabic” boost
• learners who can recognise a few words but hesitate when speaking
• anyone travelling to an Arabic-speaking destination who wants useful language for real situations 

If you’re unsure about your level, we can help you choose the best option.

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

Communicate confidently in common travel situations 

You’ll practice Arabic for real-life travel scenarios, such as: 

• greetings, introductions and polite social language 

• checking in/out at hotels and handling common requests 

• ordering in cafés/restaurants (preferences, problems, paying) 

• asking for and understanding directions and transport information 

• shopping and making simple enquiries (prices, sizes, tickets, times) 

• dealing with unexpected situations (lost items, delays, health/pharmacy basics) 

Speak more clearly and naturally 

You’ll also build speaking confidence through: 

• key survival phrases and high-frequency vocabulary 

• strategies to keep going when you don’t know the exact word (rephrasing, clarification, “buying time”) 

• pronunciation support for clearer, more intelligible Arabic 

• mini role-plays and speaking tasks to help you respond quickly and naturally 

Build cultural confidence 

Alongside the language, you’ll build confidence for real interactions through: 

• polite requests, greetings and everyday etiquette 

• typical service interactions and communication style 

• practical tips for Arabic-speaking destinations 

Course materials: All course materials are shared via SharePoint. You will receive the access link in your welcome email, which is sent 24 hours before the course starts. 

Do I need previous knowledge of Arabic? 

Some basic Arabic is helpful, but the course is designed to support learners who want practical travel language and lots of guided speaking practice. 

When is the course and how long is each class? 

The course runs on two consecutive Saturdays, 10:00–13:00, at IH London. 

Is this course face-to-face or online? 

This is a face-to-face course taught at our school in London. 

What level is the course? 

This course is best for beginners and near-beginners who want practical Arabic for travel. If you’re unsure, we can advise you on the best option. 

Will there be lots of speaking practice? 

Yes. The course is highly practical and includes guided speaking tasks, role-plays and realistic travel scenarios to help you build confidence quickly. 

Which type of Arabic will I learn? 

Arabic has different varieties. In this course, you’ll learn a practical core that works widely, and we can adapt the focus depending on your destination and interests. Your teacher will also help you recognise common differences you may hear while travelling. 

Will we learn the Arabic alphabet? 

We focus mainly on speaking and listening, using transliteration (Latin script) to support communication at the start.  

What should I bring to class? 

Just a notebook and something to write with. Your teacher will provide materials, and digital resources are shared via SharePoint. 

Where will the class take place? 

Classes take place at IH London – 16 Stukeley Street, London WC2B 5LQ. You’ll receive full details in your welcome email. 

What if I miss a Saturday? 

Because this is a short course, it’s best to attend both sessions. If you miss a class, we’ll share key materials via SharePoint, but we can’t replicate the in-class speaking practice. 

Can I continue studying after this course? 

Yes! Your teacher can recommend the best next step, such as a general Arabic course or a level-based programme at IH London. 

How will I receive the course materials? 

All course materials are shared via SharePoint, with access provided in your welcome email 24 hours before the course starts. 

Is there a coursebook? 

No fixed coursebook is required — your teacher will provide targeted materials and resources for the course. 

Arabic Level 1 is a Beginners Arabic course for students who have never studied the Arabic language before. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Lessons take place once a week.

Course Content

Topics

• Alphabets
• Greetings
• Question words
• Meeting people for the first time
• Making introductions
• Immediate family
• Introducing family members
• Jobs
• Talking about family occupations

Grammar

• Present simple
• Long and short vowels
• Masculine and feminine distinction
• Case endings
• Nominative case
• Definite and indefinite

Cultural exposure

• King of Jordan & royal family

This language course includes

•  Access to our online platform to download lesson summaries, notes and resources 
• Support and advice from Arabic language teachers 
• Arabic language study tips 

Arabic Level 1 is a Beginners Arabic course for students who have never studied the Arabic language before. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Lessons take place once a week.

Course Content

Topics

• Alphabets
• Greetings
• Question words
• Meeting people for the first time
• Making introductions
• Immediate family
• Introducing family members
• Jobs
• Talking about family occupations

Grammar

• Present simple
• Long and short vowels
• Masculine and feminine distinction
• Case endings
• Nominative case
• Definite and indefinite

Cultural exposure

• King of Jordan & royal family

This language course includes

•  Access to our online platform to download lesson summaries, notes and resources 
• Support and advice from Arabic language teachers 
• Arabic language study tips 

Arabic Level 1 is a Beginners Arabic course for students who have never studied the Arabic language before. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Lessons take place once a week.

Course Content

Topics:

• Alphabets
• Greetings
• Question words
• Meeting people for the first time
• Making introductions
• Immediate family
• Introducing family members
• Jobs
• Talking about family occupations

Grammar:

• Present simple
• Long and short vowels
• Masculine and feminine distinction
• Case endings
• Nominative case
• Definite and indefinite

Cultural exposure:

• King of Jordan & royal family

This language course includes: 

•  Access to our online platform to download lesson summaries, notes and resources 
• Support and advice from Arabic language teachers 
• Arabic language study tips 

Arabic Level 1 is a Beginners Arabic course for students who have never studied the Arabic language before. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Lessons take place once a week.

Important Notice

Course Content

Topics

• Alphabets
• Greetings
• Question words
• Meeting people for the first time
• Making introductions
• Immediate family
• Introducing family members
• Jobs
• Talking about family occupations

Grammar

• Present simple
• Long and short vowels
• Masculine and feminine distinction
• Case endings
• Nominative case
• Definite and indefinite

Cultural exposure

• King of Jordan & royal family

This language course includes

•  Access to our online platform to download lesson summaries, notes and resources 
• Support and advice from Arabic language teachers 
• Arabic language study tips 

Arabic Level 2 Afternoon is an Elementary Arabic course for students who have already completed a Beginners course. Arabic Level 2 requires that you have previously studied Arabic Level 1 or a course of at least 12 class hours. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Lessons take place once a week.

Course Content

Topics

• Asking questions
• Asking for directions
• Describing your city
• Talking about capital cities vs. towns
• Countries and nationalities
• Numbers and counting
• Asking how many and how much
• Buying and selling.

Grammar

• Introducing action verbs عندي after introducing family
• Negation in the present tense form
• Sun and moon letters
• Genitive case
• Spelling rules for Hamza
• Idafa (the possessive form)
• Dual form

Cultural exposure

• A tour of the Arab World on the map

This language course includes

• Access to our online platform to download lesson summaries, notes and resources 
• Support and advice from Arabic language teachers 
• Arabic language study tips 

Arabic Level 2 is an Elementary Arabic course for students who have already completed a Beginners course. Arabic Level 2 requires that you have previously studied Arabic Level 1 or a course of at least 12 class hours. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Lessons take place once a week.

Course Content

Topics

• Asking questions
• Asking for directions
• Describing your city
• Talking about capital cities vs. towns
• Countries and nationalities
• Numbers and counting
• Asking how many and how much
• Buying and selling.

Grammar

• Introducing action verbs عندي after introducing family
• Negation in the present tense form
• Sun and moon letters
• Genitive case
• Spelling rules for Hamza
• Idafa (the possessive form)
• Dual form

Cultural exposure

• A tour of the Arab World on the map

This language course includes  

• Access to our online platform to download lesson summaries, notes and resources 
• Support and advice from Arabic language teachers 
• Arabic language study tips 

Arabic Level 2 is an Elementary Arabic course for students who have already completed a Beginners course. Arabic Level 2 requires that you have previously studied Arabic Level 1 or a course of at least 12 class hours. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Lessons take place once a week.

Important Notice

Course Content

Topics

• Asking questions
• Asking for directions
• Describing your city
• Talking about capital cities vs. towns
• Countries and nationalities
• Numbers and counting
• Asking how many and how much
• Buying and selling.

Grammar

• Introducing action verbs عندي after introducing family
• Negation in the present tense form
• Sun and moon letters
• Genitive case
• Spelling rules for Hamza
• Idafa (the possessive form)
• Dual form

Cultural exposure

• A tour of the Arab World on the map

This language course includes  

• Access to our online platform to download lesson summaries, notes and resources 
• Support and advice from Arabic language teachers 
• Arabic language study tips 

Our Fast Track Arabic Level 1 and 2 course is designed for complete beginners who are looking to accelerate their language learning. Classes take place twice a week at our school in Covent Garden. Led by qualified, experienced teachers, our lessons are dynamic, engaging, and focused on spoken communication. Classes include a variety of interactive activities such as group discussions, role-plays, and practical exercises to build fluency and confidence.

Is this course for you?

This course is ideal for complete beginners who are ready to commit to a more intensive learning experience. If you’re looking to make faster progress and can attend classes twice a week, this course is a great fit. However, if you prefer a slower pace or have a busier schedule, we also offer evening, afternoon and weekend courses that take place once a week—perfect for learners seeking a less intense option. If you already have some basic knowledge of Arabic, we recommend taking our placement test or contacting the Foreign Language Department, as a more suitable course may be available for you. After this course, continue your learning with Level 3 and 4 and beyond. Progression is based on your class participation and self-study—there are no formal tests. To help you better understand our level system, check our level chart.

Course Dates:
Monday and Wednesdays: 12th January 2026 – 25th February 2026 (Break 16th and 18th February 2026)
Tuesday and Thursdays: 10th March 2026 – 30th April (Easter Break – 31st March – 9th April 2026)
Monday and Wednesdays: 11th May 2026 – 24th June 2026 (Spring Break 25th and 27th May 2026)
Tuesday and Thursdays: 7th July – 13th August 2026
Monday and Wednesdays: 31st August – 7th October 2026
Tuesday and Thursdays: 13th October – 26th November 2026 (Autumn Break – 27th and 29th October 2026)

What’s Included in your course?

• Lesson summaries, notes & resources
• Arabic study tips
• Additional study resources
• Support from experienced teachers
• Exclusive workshops and events to IH London students

By the end of your course, you should be able to:

• Introduce yourself and others with confidence, and discuss your background, daily life, and family in Arabic.
• Ask and respond to questions in a range of everyday situations, such as in shops, at work, or at home.
• Describe people, places, possessions, and routines using accurate vocabulary and sentence structures.
• Engage in short conversations about personal interests, preferences, and experiences.
• Use culturally appropriate greetings, expressions, and conversational norms across formal and informal settings.

Materials

Suggested Coursebook
Wightwick, Jane, and Mahmoud Gaafar. Mastering Arabic 1. 4th ed.
Bloomsbury Publishing, 2024
ISBN: 9781350367265

For this course we will use units 1 to 10 in the coursebook. Please note we might not cover all activities during the course.

Why not try out a sample beginners Arabic lesson before signing up to a full course? These one-off sessions are aimed at students who have never studied the Arabic language before. 

Our Arabic language classes take place at our school in Covent Garden with a qualified, experienced teacher and fellow students. Evening language classes at IH London are dynamic and interactive as the emphasis is on spoken communication, which is achieved through lots of group work and role-plays. At the same time, there is systematic work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, so that you can improve on all aspects of the language. Your teacher speaks in the target language throughout, so that you can refine your comprehension and listening skills. 

Sample Lesson Plan

• Greeting people
• Introducing yourself and someone else
• Asking and giving personal details (name, nationalities, profession, age, phone number, date of birth)