Arabic is Not Optional in the UAE, Here’s How Your Child Can Master It
If you’re an expat parent raising a child in the UAE, you’ve likely asked yourself this:
“How can I help my child succeed in Arabic, when we don’t speak it at home?”
For thousands of families living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and beyond, Arabic is not just a subject, it’s a requirement. Whether your child attends a British, Indian, American, or IB curriculum school, Arabic is almost always mandatory.
But for non-Arab families, this creates a real challenge:
Their children struggle with Arabic in class, in homework, and in day-to-day communication, while native speakers looks different around them.
Let’s talk about how you can turn that struggle into confidence.
Why Arabic Isn’t Optional in the UAE
In the UAE, Arabic is part of the national curriculum. Even if your child is not an Arab national, schools are required to offer Arabic classes and your child is expected to participate.
But here’s the truth:
Most international students come from homes where Arabic isn’t spoken. They enter school already at a disadvantage, and over time, this affects their performance, confidence, and comfort.
You may have heard:
- I don’t understand what the Arabic teacher says.
- Everyone else speaks Arabic except me.
- I’m scared to be called on in class.
Sound familiar?
Why Most Expat Kids Struggle with Arabic
- Arabic letters and grammar are very different from English
- Teachers can’t always adjust for non-native learners in a big classroom
- Children feel shy speaking a language they’re unsure of
- Parents can’t support at home because they don’t speak Arabic either
But there’s a solution, and it doesn’t involve you learning Arabic yourself!
How to Help Your Child Learn Arabic — Effectively & Comfortably
At Taallam Academy, we work with families across the UAE, Pakistani, Indian, Filipino, European, African, and more, who want their kids to:
- Feel confident in Arabic class
- Participate with ease
- Handle homework independently
- Communicate better at school
Here’s how we help:
1. Build Speaking Confidence First
Before grammar and writing, your child needs to feel comfortable speaking.
We start with:
- Everyday words (hello, how are you, thank you, please)
- Common phrases used in school and playground
- Role-playing conversations (answering questions, asking for help, etc.)
This helps children lose fear and gain fluency.
2. Offer One-on-One Arabic Support
In a classroom of 20+ students, teachers simply can’t personalize the pace for every child. But with a private or small group setting:
- The child learns at their own speed
- No embarrassment if they make mistakes
- Teachers explain concepts in simple, child-friendly ways
- Progress is consistent and measurable
Taallam Academy offers Arabic classes online with trained teachers, scheduled around your child’s school routine.
3. Make Arabic Fun and Interactive
Let’s be honest, no one enjoys dry textbooks. That’s why we use:
- Flashcards, games, and storytelling
- Visual aids and animations
- Cultural exposure through fun examples (shopping, greetings, school life)
When learning is fun, retention skyrockets.
4. Align Arabic Learning with School Goals
We understand school pressure, especially during exams or report card time.
That’s why we help kids:
- Understand school textbook vocabulary
- Prepare for oral presentations in Arabic
- Practice reading passages with confidence
- Review grammar in an age-appropriate way
It’s not about memorizing, it’s about real understanding.
Take the First Step Today
Your child doesn’t need to struggle with Arabic anymore.
All they need is the right guidance—and a learning space that understands their unique situation.
At Taallam Academy, we offer:
- Private & small group Arabic classes
- Flexible timings for UAE time zone
- Experienced Arabic teachers who work with expat kids
- A gentle, interactive, and effective curriculum
Book a free demo today — and watch your child’s confidence grow.
Final Thought
In the UAE, Arabic isn’t optional, it’s part of your child’s reality.
But struggle doesn’t have to be part of it.
With the right support, your child can not only keep up, they can excel.
Start today with Taallam Academy. Because confidence in Arabic opens doors, in school, in friendship, and in life.