English in Dubai: Practical Guide for Everyday Talk

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and English is the common language that ties everything together. Whether you’re catching a taxi, ordering food, or signing a contract, you’ll hear English everywhere. The good news? You don’t need a perfect accent—just a few useful phrases and some cultural awareness to get by smoothly.

Everyday Phrases You’ll Use

Start with greetings: “Good morning,” “How are you?” and “Thank you” go a long way. When you need directions, try, “Excuse me, can you tell me how to get to Al Fahidi Street?” For shopping, “How much is this?” and “Do you accept credit cards?” are essential. If you’re dining out, say, “Can I see the menu, please?” and “I’d like the chicken shawarma, no spicy, thank you.” These basics keep conversations polite and clear.

At hotels, the front desk usually speaks fluent English. A simple “I have a reservation under the name John” is enough. For transport, most ride‑hailing apps are English‑only, so you can type your destination without any hassle.

Where English Might Fail

Even though English is widespread, you’ll occasionally meet people who speak it with a strong Arabic or South‑Asian accent. Don’t take it personally if you need to ask them to repeat themselves. A polite, “Sorry, could you say that again?” works every time.

Some official documents, like visa forms or property contracts, might be in Arabic. In those cases, bring a trusted translator or use a reputable service. It’s also smart to keep a copy of important terms in both languages, just in case.

Signs in older neighborhoods can be bilingual, but the English translation might be small. Look for the Arabic word “مقابل” (meaning opposite) to locate entrances or exits. When in doubt, ask a shop clerk: “Where is the bathroom?” is understood everywhere.

For business meetings, English is the norm, but knowing a few Arabic greetings—like “As‑salaam alaikum” (peace be upon you)—shows respect and can break the ice. Most professionals appreciate the effort, even if you quickly switch back to English.

Apps like Google Translate, Duolingo, or local language guides can help you fill gaps. Download offline dictionaries before you travel; internet isn’t always reliable in certain areas.

Finally, remember that body language matters. A smile, eye contact, and a friendly tone can smooth over any language hiccup. Dubai’s residents are used to interacting with visitors from all over the world, so they’ll be patient with you.

With these tips, you’ll navigate Dubai confidently, whether you’re strolling through the Marina, negotiating a price at the Gold Souk, or chatting with colleagues in a skyscraper office. English gets you far, but a little cultural awareness keeps the journey pleasant.