Study Levantine Arabic Programs offered by Study Levantine Arabic School are a unique opportunity for anyone looking to expand their spoken Arabic to include the Levantine dialect, travel through the Levant, and immerse themselves in Levantine culture, history, and politics. Fortunately, for those looking to study Arabic with us, we are located in the West Bank, Palestine, in the heart of the Levant, and in the busy and vibrant city of Hebron. Levantine Arabic is one of the most widely spoken Arabic dialects, making its acquisition the ultimate passport to the Arabic-speaking world.
The Arabic courses offered by Study Levantine Arabic School focus on daily colloquial tasks, meaning students will learn everyday phrases and real-world skills. Students will learn how to write and speak using Levantine phonetics, in addition to improving their reading and listening comprehension. Depending on the course level, the program will also focus on various topics specifically designed to be used in conversation. The experience is immersive, featuring interactions with the city of Hebron and the option to stay with a host family.
Table of Contents
What is the Levant and Levantine Arabic?
The Levant is a region of the Middle East associated with the Eastern Mediterranean. Typically, the countries included in this region are Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine- though broader definitions may also include Cyprus, Turkey, Egypt, and a small portion of Iraq. The population of the Levant totals about 44.5 million people, with a rich diversity of cultures and ethnicities, including Arabic, Aramaic, Armenian, Assyrian, Circassian, Domari, Greek, Hebrew, Kurdish, Turkish, and many others!
The Muslim conquest of the Levant in 634 CE brought Arabic to the region, and since then, it has been the predominantly spoken language of the area. In the 1400 years since then, generations of Arabic speakers have slowly developed a regional dialect, called Shami (another name for Levantine Arabic). The dialect is distinct from the rest of the Arab world, but still closely related to Classical Arabic, known as FusHa. In fact, approximately 50% of its vocabulary corresponds directly to Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), making it one of the most recognizable dialects among many in the Arab world.
Today, there are two distinct dialects of Levantine Arabic:
Northern Levantine: Also known as Syro-Lebanese Arabic, North Levantine Arabic is spoken in the northern countries of the Levant, such as Lebanon, in specific territories such as Turkey’s coastal regions of Adana, Hatay, and Mersin, and in the areas of Syria bordering Aleppo, Damascus, and the Mediterranean.
Southern Levantine: This is the other dialect of Levantine, and is spoken in Palestine and across most of Jordan. It is also spoken in Syria’s southern region, particularly in the Hauran. It will be the dialect most present in Hebron and the immediate area.
There is also a colloquial form of Arabic known as ‘Ammiyya. ‘Ammiyya is a term that refers to the regional varieties or vernaculars across the Arab world used for everyday speaking situations. In fact, ‘Ammiyya is the first language of every Arab, as they later acquire Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) in school. Unlike MSA, ‘Ammiyya does not adhere to the strict rules of grammar and word order and often loses other structured linguistic features.
Why Learn Levantine Arabic?
Shami is now one of the two dominant dialects of Arabic in the world, the other being Egyptian. With an estimated 38 million native speakers throughout the Levant and the Arab diaspora, Levantine Arabic is one of the most widely spoken dialects of Arabic. By learning this dialect, students will have numerous opportunities to engage with the people, politics, histories, and cultures of the Arabic-speaking world within and beyond the Levant.
Due to its geopolitical importance and rich historical inheritance, Levantine Arabic is a key to interacting with an essential part of history, literature, and religion. This region continues to be important today, and is vital for those wishing to engage with the politics, human rights, and economics of the area. Learning Levantine Arabic is the key to accessing this diverse region, as well as the Arab diaspora at large.
Additionally, whether it be because of travel, recreation, business, personal interest, family lineage, or simply curiosity, those who study Levantine Arabic will be connected to one of the most diverse and influential regions of the world. Students will have the opportunity to interact with individuals and communities across Arabic-speaking countries and the Arab diaspora, including those located in their own communities back home!
How Are Classes Conducted?
Study Levantine Arabic School offers Arabic classes that are second to none, creating a completely immersive experience for our participants. Study Levantine Arabic School can provide this due in part to its prime location in the bustling center of Hebron, which allows participants to engage with the Arabic language daily intimately. These courses enable students to rapidly develop their Arabic skills through the immersion methodology of language acquisition, reinforcing their formal studies with practical use of the language in daily life. Students will essentially have two options in terms of class style: one-on-one or small groups:
One-on-one: Students will have private lessons with one of our qualified Arabic language teachers, allowing for a more personalized approach to instruction. This also ensures that the student will have the instructor’s full attention while allowing the instructor to focus on any questions that the student may have.
Small groups: Typically 2 or 3 students, but up to 5. While one-on-one courses are more personalized, small groups allow for structured interaction with peers at similar language proficiency levels, which is often an effective strategy for fostering collective linguistic growth. Students will be able to practice their Arabic together, collaborate on group projects, enjoy class excursions, and much more.
Qualified Teachers
Study Levantine Arabic School prides itself on its faculty and staff, all of whom are native Levantine Arabic speakers. In addition, many of our teachers have degrees in related fields such as Teaching Arabic to Non-native Speakers, Teaching Arabic as a Second Language, Arabic Cultural Studies, Arabic Literary Studies, and many more.
Our flexible and experienced teachers are ready and happy to help build an Arabic course designed specifically for your needs. Essential to our intensive Arabic language courses is participation in lively class conversations. We employ a communicative approach and limit class size to five students, leaving ample opportunity for discussion and inclusive participation, as well as for receiving individual attention from our Arabic teachers.
Are the Courses Taught in English?
The short answer is yes – all of our Levantine Arabic courses are geared towards English speakers. However, for the sake of immersion, the higher the course level, the less English will be utilized in the classroom. Please also keep in mind that while Study Levantine Arabic School’s center speaks English and is geared towards English speakers, the city of Hebron is predominantly Arabic-speaking. When navigating through Hebron, students will need to utilize their Arabic and rely on their skills to the best of their ability, thereby creating a fully immersive experience.
Levantine Arabic Course Levels
Beginner Levantine Arabic
This course is designed for students with absolutely no previous Arabic language experience. This course will introduce students to basic concepts, including the Arabic alphabet, writing systems, grammar fundamentals, phonetics, and common vocabulary.
Elementary Levantine Arabic
This course is intended to continue where the previous course left off, building on students’ foundational Arabic language knowledge. This entails the introduction of new vocabulary and slightly more complex grammatical rules into the curriculum, as well as regular reading, writing, and speaking exercises. Upon the completion of this course, students will be able to converse, read, and write about elementary subjects such as shopping, asking for directions, and expressing preferences.
Intermediate Levantine Arabic
The intermediate course will introduce students to a more immersive curriculum than the previous levels; this will entail venturing into the Palestinian community of Hebron to communicate with native speakers and complete everyday tasks. Students may be instructed to purchase items from a Palestinian market, order from a restaurant, discuss preferences about a specific topic, or engage in other colloquial activities.
Advanced Levantine Arabic
The advanced course maintains an immersive nature while also expanding into complex reading, writing, and spoken materials. Students will conduct research in the community of Hebron on a variety of subjects. With all these methods and materials combined, students will establish a firm understanding of and gain grammatical competency in Levantine Arabic. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to articulate their thoughts and opinions on complex matters such as politics, history, the environment, and the arts of Palestine.
Course Intensity Options
Non-Intensive: This course load would mean students spend approximately 12 hours per week in Arabic classes. We recommend that students who are interested in a long-term program of 2-3 months in duration enroll in a non-intensive course. This will provide you with plenty of in-class instruction while still leaving ample time to explore the city of Hebron and immerse yourself in Palestinian culture.
Intensive: This course load would mean students spend about 20 hours per week in Arabic classes, in addition to assigned homework and extracurricular activities. For those looking to study for a month or less, we recommend enrolling in an intensive course.
Super Intensive: This course load can include up to 30 hours of in-class Arabic lessons per week. This intensity is for those looking for a challenge, and for anyone who wants to make significant gains in their language abilities. However, this does not account for the extra-curricular activities for which Study Levantine Arabic School is well known, and may be an overwhelming study load for some. There is no doubt you will leave Palestine with an accentuated and advanced knowledge of Arabic after this course.
Start and End Dates
Studying Arabic with Study Levantine Arabic School is available year-round and has no official application deadlines; when you decide to start your Levantine journey is up to you! Students may choose their starting and end dates however they see fit, up to a three-month stay.
However, especially for students, our Summer Semester, which runs from June to August, is especially popular. This is ideal for students on a summer break looking to study Arabic for their own interests, for academic credit, or to equip them to take a summer internship in the Levant afterwards. Our summer Arabic courses are also ideal for anyone looking to start studying Arabic or improve their skills with real-world experience during their time off.
Study Levantine Arabic Programs
Here is a brief overview of the Study Levantine Arabic Programs:
1. Levantine Arabic Summer Program
Levantine Arabic Summer Program: The Levantine Arabic Summer Immersion Program is an excellent opportunity for those seeking an intensive Arabic course during the summer in the West Bank, Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Israel, or the broader Middle East region. Recognized as one of the top Arabic language schools in Palestine, our Study Levantine Arabic school offers enriching summer Arabic courses suitable for all learners.
Whatever your reason, if you’re interested in learning Levantine Arabic (Shami dialect), our Summer Arabic Immersion Program is for you. With options for super-intensive and intensive immersion summer programs in dialects such as Levantine (Ammiya), Palestinian colloquial Arabic, and Modern Standard Arabic, Study Levantine Arabic welcomes all guests seeking to learn this beautiful language. Our students include undergraduates, graduates, professionals, and even retirees with abilities ranging from beginner to advanced.
2. Intensive Levantine Arabic Program
Intensive Levantine Arabic Program: We offer a variety of courses in Levantine Arabic. These include intensive Levantine Arabic courses, winter Arabic programs, summer Arabic programs, and online Palestinian Arabic programs. This is a unique opportunity for individuals who wish to learn this popular dialect of Arabic, connect with the broader Palestinian diaspora, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Palestine and the Levant region.
These lessons include Intensive Levantine Arabic Courses, Summer and Online Levantine Arabic Programs. Students have the chance to study 20 hours of instruction per week. With this format, students can quickly acquire Arabic skills and complete a full 80-hour course in just four weeks.
3. Online Levantine Arabic Courses
Studying Levantine Arabic Online: Levantine Arabic, also known as Shami Arabic or the Ammiyya dialect, is a fantastic option for those who want to learn this widely spoken and increasingly important dialect from the comfort of their home. Spoken by approximately 42 million people across Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria, Levantine Arabic is a cornerstone of the Levant region. It is easily understood throughout the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
This dialect bridges linguistic gaps, enabling communication with people in countries like Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and the Gulf states. Studying Levantine Arabic online allows you to immerse yourself in the language, practice with other learners, and build the skills needed to connect with diverse communities throughout the Arab world.
Which Course is for Me?
Study Levantine Arabic School offers a free placement test to evaluate your Arabic language skills in 4 crucial areas: speaking, reading, writing, and listening. We are always happy to consult with you if you have any questions regarding course levels or intensity. Our contact information can be found at the bottom of this page, along with our Facebook page and other social media platforms.
Live with a Palestinian Host Family
Your time in the classroom is not where your Arabic learning experience will end. Residing in Hebron, you may have the option to reside with a Palestinian host family. This opportunity is truly special and unique since students will not only have the chance to practice their Arabic skills with native speakers, but will also gain rare access into Palestinian culture, customs, and home life. This ensures an intensive, immersive experience not only in the classroom, but outside as well.
You may even take part in family activities, attend Palestinian cultural events, become familiar with daily life in Hebron, and so much more! However, homestay is only guaranteed for female students and is subject to availability for male students, so we recommend applying to the program of your choice as early as possible to secure your place and homestay.
Student Requirements
Study Levantine Arabic School does not discriminate on any basis; this includes nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other discernible means. There are only three primary criteria we request from participants:
- Students should be between 18 and 70 years of age. This age restriction may be waived, provided that Study Levantine Arabic School’s director approves it..
- We require all prospective students to have working knowledge of English and/or Arabic, since these are the primary languages used during the program.
- Finally, we ask all participants to have a positive attitude, an open mind, and an eagerness to learn.
Competitive Pricing
Study Levantine Arabic School is priced competitively in comparison to other study abroad programs, and covers a wide range of expenses aside from mere Arabic lessons. The price of a course depends on its intensity and is charged weekly. The program fee per week is as follows:
Non-Intensive: €370
Intensive: €450
Super Intensive: €700
All Students also pay a one-time registration fee of €30. Program prices listed on this webpage are the complete and final costs students will pay; there are no hidden or additional fees.
Program Fees Cover:
- Placement Tests
- Language courses
- Study Material and Workbooks
- Housing for the duration of your stay
- Operational expenses
- Arrival and pre-departure assistance
- Breakfast 5 days a week
- Excursions led by Study Levantine Arabic School in Hebron, including the old city of Hebron, local companies, refugee camps, as well as local universities such as the Palestine Polytechnic University and Hebron University
- A certificate upon completion
Study Levantine Arabic Programs: Overview
| Colloquial Levantine Arabic Courses | Super-Intensive Program | Intensive Program | Non-Intensive Program |
| Program Duration | 1-13 weeks | 1-13 weeks | 1-13 weeks |
| Lessons Per Month | 30 | 20 | 12 |
| Days Per Week | 5 | 5 | 3 |
| Lesson Duration | 45 minutes | 45 minutes | 45 minutes |
| Average Class Size | 1-3 students | 1-3 students | 1-3 students |
| Maximum Class Size | 5 students | 5 students | 5 students |
| Program Levels | Beginner Elementary Intermediate Advanced | Beginner Elementary Intermediate Advanced | Beginner Elementary Intermediate Advanced |
| Lesson Periods | Morning 8:30-12:30 Afternoon 12:30-16:00 | Morning 8:30-12:30 Afternoon 12:30-16:00 | Morning 8:30-12:30 Afternoon 12:30-16:00 |
| Application Deadline | No Deadline | No Deadline | No Deadline |
| Start/End Dates | Flexible | Flexible | Flexible |
| Program Fee Per Week | 700€ (confirm prices) | 450€ (confirm prices) | 370€ (confirm prices) |
| University Credit | Available | Available | Available |
Reviews and Awards
How to Apply
If you are interested in participating in our Study Levantine Arabic Program, please write to us at Info@ecpalestine.org. We should be able to respond to your initial inquiry within 1-3 business days.
In the subject line of your email, write “Study Levantine Colloquial Arabic,” and we will reply with an application form attached. Please fill this out and return it to us to begin the enrollment process.
Conclusion
For anyone wishing to learn spoken Levantine Arabic, expand their knowledge of Palestinian or Levantine history and culture, and reside in a dynamic and bustling city in the West Bank, Study Levantine Arabic School’s Study Levantine Arabic program is for you! This is a unique opportunity for anyone looking to expand their spoken Arabic to include the Levantine dialect, travel through the Levant, and immerse themselves in Levantine culture, history, and politics.
The courses offered by Study Levantine Arabic School focus on daily colloquial tasks, meaning students will learn the idioms and everyday phrases associated with the Levantine dialect. Students will gain an immersive experience, potentially reside with a host family, and venture into the Arab world, experiencing the culture and customs of Palestine firsthand. This Levantine Arabic intensive program promises to be a transformative and enriching experience for all who pursue it.
From all of us at Study Levantine Arabic School, we would be more than happy to have you as part of our family here in Hebron. Apply today and begin your linguistic journey!
