How many people speak Arabic worldwide?

It is estimated that there are over 420 million speakers of Arabic worldwide, making it one of the five most commonly-spoken languages around the globe. This includes both native and non-native speakers.

Is there more than one dialect of Arabic? Which one should I learn?

Generally speaking, there are two basic forms of Arabic: standard and colloquial. The former is used by the media and in universities, literature and formal writing. If you take Arabic lessons from a Western school, this is probably the form you'll get. But, this isn't the way Arabic speakers use the language in their day-to-day lives! If you know that you'll be using Arabic mainly in one particular location (e.g. Egypt vs. Persian Gulf nations vs. Lebanon), it might be worth looking for an Arabic course that at least introduces the dialect of that area. On the other hand, of all of the Arabic dialects, Egyptian is the most widely-understood by all speakers (largely due to the nation's popular music, film and TV industry), so learning the Egyptian dialect is a safe bet too.

How hard is it to learn Arabic?

If your first language is English, be prepared for your Arabic studies to require some work! Ranked as a Category IV language by the State Department's Foreign Service Institute, Arabic is "exceptionally difficult" on par with Japanese, Korean and Chinese. But, if you're willing to put in the time and effort, it's definitely doable!

What are some good tips for studying the Arabic language?

Your first step should be to learn the Arabic alphabet, so that you don't have to depend on transliteration into English. Arabic experts also recommend that you memorize the plural forms of every noun you learn, because they can be very different (no tacking on an "s" like we do in English!), as well as the verb forms and any prepositions that go along with them. Finally, as with learning any language, give yourself plenty of time to study regularly; a few minutes here and there won't get you speaking Arabic fluently!

Why should I choose online Arabic lessons?

Availability, affordability and access: for those three reasons alone, you should consider studying Arabic online. Many colleges and universities don't offer courses in the language, and there's no guarantee you can secure one of the coveted seats in the class if your school does. Studying Arabic online can be done according to your preferred schedule, and at a fraction of the cost you'd pay per credit hour at a local school.

How can I read and write in Arabic on my computer?

If you're studying Arabic online, you will probably need to take a few extra steps to enable the language on your computer. The steps depend on whether you're using a Mac or Windows-based PC, so search for the instructions according to your operating system. There are also online Arabic keyboards you can use without changing your computer settings.

Are online Arabic lessons expensive?

No! They're definitely less costly than taking in-person courses. Some programs charge a one-time fee, while others use a month-to-month subscription format. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a one-off software purchase, or between $10 and $30 per month for an online course that lasts up to two years. You've got lots of options!

Can I get a refund if I don't like the Arabic language program?

That depends on the provider you choose. Some offer satisfaction guarantees ranging from 30-60 days from the date of purchase or start of the subscription plan, while others only allow you to cancel future months without refunding past payments. We recommend that you use any free materials offered by the Arabic lessons platform prior to making your choice: you can often take full sample lessons or watch a demo of how the program works, which will help you get a feel for which Arabic lessons are the best fit for your preferences and learning style.

Best Arabic Lessons for November 2025

Item: The Best Arabic Lessons - Summary Reviews
Rating: 5
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Monday, November 10th We evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

2025 Arabic Lesson Reviews

Where Can You Find the Best Arabic Lessons? Are you interested in learning Arabic? You may find yourself contemplating a relocation to one of the many countries where Arabic is the national language, or maybe you're just planning a trip to see Egypt. Whether you're looking to reconnect with your culture, learn more about a new one, or brush up on some courses you took in school, learning Arabic can be a truly worthwhile experience.

5.0

EXCELLENT

Best Option

Rosetta Stone

Priced $47 per quarter, $126 per year, or $199 one-time
Immersion-based approach
3-day free trial

Read Full Review

EXCELLENT

5.0

On the Rosetta Stone website

Rosetta Stone, a leading language learning platform, offers a comprehensive Arabic program with a 3-day free trial featuring engaging lessons. Using its innovative TruVoice speech recognition and Dynamic Immersion model, Rosetta Stone creates an immersive language experience. Its student-friendly approach, customized learning plans, and a 30-day money-back guarantee contribute to its stellar reputation, earning it a top 5-star rating as an ideal choice for learners starting their Arabic journey.

4.5

GREAT

Great

Mondly

Pricing from $10 per month or $48 per year
Sentence-reading and listening approach
Latin and Al-abjadiyah alphabets used

Read Full Review

GREAT

4.5

On the Mondly website

Mondly, based in Romania, offers engaging Arabic lessons through its app and online platform. The platform's language games, including unique features like lessons starting from various languages and flexible alphabet options, make it stand out. Despite limited direct grammar instruction, Mondly's multimodal learning approach, gamified features, and positive user reviews contribute to its excellent rating, making it an enjoyable and cost-effective choice for Arabic learners.

4.4

GREAT

Great

Ling Q

Priced $12.99 to $39.99 per month or up to $839.76 for two year
Immersion-based approach
30-day refund window

Read Full Review

GREAT

4.4

On the Ling Q website

Ling Q provides an immersive Arabic learning experience through its vast library of authentic content and the option to import preferred materials. The platform personalizes learning based on interests, and its immersion method, emphasizing relevant input, aims to accelerate language acquisition. Ling Q offers a free membership with limited features and Premium and Premium Plus memberships, and the platform's engaging difficulty level, emphasis on input flood, and unique features like auto-generated audio contribute to its effectiveness. Ling Q has an "A+" BBB rating and favorable reviews, earning it a very high rating as a competitive and immersive Arabic language learning platform.

4.0

VERY GOOD

Very Good

Arabic Pod 101

Pricing from free to $23 per month
Listening and video approach
7-day free trial of paid features

Read Full Review

VERY GOOD

4.0

On the Arabic Pod 101 website

Arabic Pod 101 offers comprehensive Arabic language courses with a focus on audio and video lessons for learners of all levels. The membership plans range from free to $23 per month, with a 7-day free trial and a 60-day money-back guarantee. While the user interface may pose challenges, the quality of lesson material, frequent updates, and emphasis on contemporary language contribute to its respectable rating.

3.9

VERY GOOD

Very Good

Pimsleur

Pricing from $19.95 to $20.95 per month or $164.95 per year
Listening approach
7-day free trial

Read Full Review

VERY GOOD

3.9

On the Pimsleur website

Pimsleur has over 50 years of language teaching experience and uses that to provide an effective listening-focused approach for Arabic learners. The service offers both monthly and annual subscriptions to Modern Standard Arabic, Egyptian Arabic, and Eastern Arabic. While lacking certain teaching features, Pimsleur's effectiveness at teaching conversational Arabic, supported by positive student reviews, earns it a solid rating, especially suitable for on-the-go learners and those prioritizing auditory learning.

3.5

GOOD

Good

Busuu

Plans from free to $13.90 per month
Listening and visual approach
14-day money-back guarantee

Read Full Review

GOOD

3.5

On the Busuu website

Busuu offers Arabic language courses aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) up to level B2. The platform employs visual and auditory learning, with tools like vocabulary and grammar review, quizzes, and a Study Plan for personalized learning. While most features are free, premium membership plans range from $6.95 to $13.90 per month. Busuu's approach is praised for user-friendliness; however, limited transparency and a focus on beginner and intermediate levels rather than full fluency result in a slightly above average rating for Arabic lessons on Busuu.

3.4

GOOD

Good

Duolingo

Pricing from free to $9.99 per month
Sentence-reading and listening approach
Latin and Al-abjadiyah alphabets used

Read Full Review

GOOD

3.4

On the Duolingo website

Duolingo, a popular language learning platform, offers a gamified approach to learning Arabic for free, with a $6.99 per month premium option. The lessons cover the Al-abjadiyah alphabet and basic vocabulary, featuring a gamified system for language learning. While the platform is engaging and fun, progressing to fluency requires self-discipline and external support. Duolingo has a mixed reputation, with an "F" rating from the BBB but high ratings on app stores. Considered best as an introductory course, Duolingo earns a good rating for its affordability and engaging platform.

3.0

AVERAGE

Average

Memrise

Priced $27.99 per month, $130.99 per year, or $80 for lifetime
Free features available
Video and audio lessons with native speakers in authentic contexts

Read Full Review

AVERAGE

3.0

On the Memrise website

Memrise, founded by individuals with backgrounds in neuroscience and psychology, offers an Arabic language learning platform focused on memory techniques and innovative approaches. With 100+ lessons, Memrise covers various topics with audio and video methods, providing an immersive experience. However, Memrise is primarily seen as a tool for memorization and vocabulary drilling, lacking comprehensive grammar explanations. Reviews are mixed, with lower ratings on third-party sites like Trustpilot but higher ratings on app stores. Memrise's Arabic lessons receive a mid-tier rating from us.

2.9

AVERAGE

Average

Rocket Languages

Pricing at $149.95 for lifetime access
Listening approach
Guest account for free trial

Read Full Review

AVERAGE

2.9

On the Rocket Languages website

Rocket Languages, founded in 2004, emphasizes audio and cultural lessons for beginners. Priced at a one-time cost of $149.95, Rocket Languages promises proficiency up to the intermediate level for Arabic. A 60-day refund policy adds to its appeal; however, customer reviews for the Arabic course are mixed, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the content's value and others praising the language-learning techniques. Our rating for Rocket Languages for Arabic is middle of the road, reflecting those varied customer experiences.

2.8

AVERAGE

Average

italki

Pricing from $10 to $40 per hour
Trial lesson usually available at half-price
Tutoring and video-call lessons

Read Full Review

AVERAGE

2.8

On the italki website

italki is a flexible platform connecting learners with language tutors, offering personalized Arabic sessions with prices ranging from $5 to $40 per hour. While lacking a standard, structured curriculum, it receives positive reviews for high-quality instruction, making it a recommended supplement to other language learning resources. For this reason, it earns an average score, missing out on a higher spot due to not having a standalone curriculum.

2.0

SUBPAR

Subpar

Talk in Arabic

Priced at $12.95 per month, $95.40 per year, or $197 for lifetime
Dialect-based approach
Desktop only

Read Full Review

SUBPAR

2.0

On the Talk in Arabic website

Talk in Arabic offers lessons in regional dialects, providing a unique approach to learning the language. However, it lacks structured progression, making it less suitable for beginners, and user reviews are limited, with some expressing concerns about functionality and skill-building. For these reasons, it earns a low rating in our review, though it may be useful as a supplement to other Arabic lessons.

Continued from above...

Where Can You Find the Best Arabic Lessons?

Are you interested in learning Arabic? You may find yourself contemplating a relocation to one of the many countries where Arabic is the national language, or maybe you're just planning a trip to see Egypt. Whether you're looking to reconnect with your culture, learn more about a new one, or brush up on some courses you took in school, learning Arabic can be a truly worthwhile experience.

However, finding Arabic lessons that fit your busy life, include your preferred learning methods, and don't break the bank can be hard. For most people, in-person lessons aren't an option either for cost reasons or time commitments. Fortunately, the realm of online courses continues to grow, offering new Arabic learning opportunities that were previously unavailable.

Whether you prefer hearing, writing, or speaking, various Arabic programs are designed to offer a range of skill-building exercises. Modern audio materials cover syllables, words, phrases, and sentences for effective repetition.

Alternatively, for visual learners, there are Arabic language platforms that cleverly gamify the entire learning process. These platforms not only cover grammar and writing exercises but also often integrate speech recognition software, allowing you to compare your pronunciation directly with that of a native speaker.

Nearly every Arabic platform offers cultural and historical aspects in their programs. Given the rich historical background and symbolic importance of the Arabic language, a thorough grasp of it requires exploring its historical origins and understanding its contemporary applications. Many of today's language-learning options also emphasize Modern Standard Arabic, mirroring the language you would encounter in general conversations. And, some companies focus on local dialects too.

As you navigate the wide array of online Arabic lessons, it might seem a little daunting to pick the best fit. To help you find the best Arabic lessons for you, we've put together some helpful criteria:

Teaching methodology. What type of learner are you? Are you inclined towards auditory learning, finding podcasts or narrations to be your favorite? Perhaps you enjoy engaging in written or gamified exercises to support your learning experience? While several Arabic lesson programs integrate various learning modalities, some platforms prioritize one style over others. Consider your preferred learning approach so you select the most suitable platform for how you learn best.
Free trial option. Top-notch Arabic lesson programs allow you to explore the program without making a payment. Look for platforms that offer free trials and pay attention to their duration. You should also look for sites that provide example lessons or preview videos on the site so you can see what you're getting into at a glance. Exercise extra caution if a company doesn't have these important details.
Cost vs. value. The cost of the subscription (or one-time payment) is a significant factor for your Arabic education. But you'll also want to assess the value you'll receive. Consider how much fluency you'll gain from the program and whether you can learn Arabic from one program or if you'll need two or three to supplement others that are less complete.
Reputation. While many Arabic lesson platforms aren't listed with the Better Business Bureau, there are reviews on third-party sites, linguistics blogs, and mobile apps to consider. Check-in on the ratings for your chosen Arabic lesson provider to make sure you're getting a language source with a great reputation.

To make sure you have the best possible experience learning Arabic, Top Consumer Reviews has assessed and rated the top options for Arabic lessons. We hope our reviews help you achieve your desired level of fluency, whether your goal is travel, cultural understanding, or simply enjoyment of a new language. Enjoy your continuing education in the beautiful language of Arabic!