Introduction
Dubai is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, attracting millions of visitors and expatriates every year. If you’re wondering “What do they speak in Dubai?”, the answer is more diverse than you might expect. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, and many other languages are common due to Dubai’s multicultural population. This guide explores the primary and secondary languages used in Dubai, helping travelers and expats navigate communication with ease.
Official Language of Dubai
Arabic: The National Language
As part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai’s official language is Arabic. Specifically, the Gulf Arabic dialect is most commonly spoken among locals. Key facts:
- Used in government, legal documents, and official communications.
- Islamic prayers and religious texts are in Classical Arabic.
- Street signs, public notices, and business contracts are often bilingual (Arabic and English).
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) vs. Emirati Arabic
- MSA: Used in formal settings like news broadcasts and official speeches.
- Emirati Arabic: The everyday dialect spoken by locals, with slight variations across the UAE.
Most Widely Spoken Language: English
Due to Dubai’s large expat population (over 90%), English serves as a lingua franca. It is used in:
✅ Business and corporate environments
✅ Schools and universities (many are English-medium)
✅ Restaurants, hotels, and tourist areas
✅ Road signs and public transport (Dubai Metro announcements are in English and Arabic)
Note: While English is dominant, learning basic Arabic phrases (e.g., “Marhaba” for hello, “Shukran” for thank you) is appreciated.
Other Commonly Spoken Languages in Dubai
Dubai’s multicultural workforce means many languages are widely spoken, including:
1. Hindi & Urdu
- Spoken by the large Indian and Pakistani communities.
- Common in retail, construction, and service industries.
2. Malayalam, Tamil, and Tagalog
- Malayalam & Tamil: Spoken by South Indian expats.
- Tagalog: Used by the Filipino community.
3. Russian & Chinese
- Increasingly heard due to tourism and business ties.
4. French & German
- Spoken by European expats and tourists.
Is It Possible to Live in Dubai Without Speaking Arabic?
Yes! Many expats live in Dubai comfortably with just English. However:
✔ Workplace: Most companies operate in English.
✔ Daily Life: Shopping, dining, and services are English-friendly.
✔ Legal & Government Services: English translations are usually available.
Tip: Learning basic Arabic can enhance cultural immersion and ease interactions with locals.
Language in Schools & Media
Education System
- Public Schools: Teach primarily in Arabic.
- Private/International Schools: Mostly English-medium (e.g., British, American, or IB curricula).
Media & Entertainment
- TV/Radio: Channels broadcast in Arabic, English, Hindi, and more.
- Newspapers: Gulf News (English) and Al Bayan (Arabic) are popular.
Conclusion
So, what do they speak in Dubai? While Arabic is the official language, English dominates daily communication, and a mix of Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and other languages reflect the city’s diversity. Whether you’re visiting or moving to Dubai, English will suffice, but learning a few Arabic phrases can enrich your experience.
