Learn Arabic language with an Al-Azhar Islamic Studies Student — Structured, Motivating & Beginner-Friendly.

Find out more about Ahmed

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  Arabic is not my native language as I am originally a Nigerian , but my academic journey has also played an important role in developing my fluency and understanding of the language. I studied at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, at the Faculty of Languages and Translation, where I had the opportunity to study Arabic in a deeper and more academic way.
  
  Over the years, I have come to appreciate Arabic not only as a means of communication, but also as a language with a rich history, beautiful literature, and many different ways of expression.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  One person I would choose is Naguib Mahfouz. He is one of the most important figures in modern Arabic literature, and his writing reflects many aspects of Arab society, culture, relationships, and everyday life.
  
  I think he represents something important about Arabic: the language can be both beautifully literary and very close to ordinary people's lives.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  I particularly like the Arabic expression "أهلاً وسهلاً" (Ahlan wa sahlan), which is commonly used to welcome someone.
  
  What I like about it is the warmth behind it. Arabic has many expressions that communicate hospitality, respect, kindness, and closeness, even in simple everyday conversations. These expressions are one of the things I enjoy introducing to my students because they help learners understand not only the language, but also the culture behind it.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Arabic matters to me because it is more than a language—it is part of a very rich cultural and literary heritage.
  
  Speaking Arabic allows me to communicate with people from many different countries and backgrounds, while also giving me access to a huge world of literature, history, and culture. As a teacher, I especially enjoy helping other people discover that world and become confident enough to use Arabic themselves.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  One of the biggest challenges for learners is that Arabic can look very different from languages they may already know. The alphabet, pronunciation, sentence structure, vocabulary, and the difference between Modern Standard Arabic and spoken dialects can initially feel difficult.
  
  However, I believe Arabic becomes much easier when students learn gradually and practice consistently. I use simple explanations, repetition, examples, conversation, and activities appropriate to the student's level. I also encourage students to speak from the beginning rather than waiting until they feel "perfect."
  
  Making mistakes is a normal part of learning, and my goal is to create an environment where students feel comfortable making them and learning from them.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  One thing I remember from my studies is realizing that knowing the meaning of individual Arabic words is not always enough to understand what someone really means.
  
  The same expression can feel different depending on the situation, the speaker's tone, and the people involved. This taught me that learning a language is not simply about memorizing vocabulary and grammar. You also have to understand how people actually use the language.
  
  That experience has influenced the way I teach today. I try to give students real examples and situations rather than teaching isolated words alone.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Living and studying in Cairo gave me valuable opportunities to use Arabic outside the classroom. Everyday interactions—speaking with people, asking questions, shopping, travelling, and simply listening to conversations—helped me understand how Arabic is used naturally in real life.
  
  These experiences also helped me appreciate the differences between formal Arabic and everyday spoken Arabic. For me, this is an important part of learning a language: what you study in a book becomes much more meaningful when you hear and use it in real situations.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  What makes me a Superprof is my combination of academic knowledge, patience, and passion for helping students learn Arabic.
  
  I studied at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Faculty of Languages and Translation, which gave me a strong foundation in language and communication. At the same time, I understand that every student learns differently.
  
  Whether a student is starting Arabic from zero, wants to improve conversation, needs help with reading and writing, or wants to understand Arabic culture better, I try to adapt my lessons to their goals and level.
  
  For younger learners especially, I like using simple vocabulary, repetition, visual aids, songs, and interactive activities to keep lessons engaging.
  
  My goal is not simply to teach students Arabic rules. I want them to gradually become comfortable using Arabic and to enjoy the learning process.