12 Best Apps to Learn Arabic Fast in 2014
If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering Arabic, whether for travel, work, or cultural exploration, now is the time to turn that dream into a reality. Learning a new language may seem like a daunting challenge, but having an exceptional Arabic language learning app can significantly simplify the process.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top 12 apps for learning Arabic, suitable for learners of all levels, making it easy and enjoyable to grasp this beautiful language.
12 Best Arabic Learning Apps for All Levels
1. Drops
Drops is a visually engaging app designed to make Arabic language learning both fun and effective. With its focus on practical vocabulary, the app uses beautiful graphics and quick mini-games to help users memorize words and phrases in just 5 minutes per day.
Main Features:
- Illustrated Learning: Uses pictures to directly convey meanings.
- 5-Minute Sessions: Short, addictive learning sessions.
- Effortless Play: Game-like interactions for an immersive experience.
- Vocabulary Focus: Concentrates on practical words and phrases.
- Habit Building: Encourages daily language learning habits.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: User-friendly, visually appealing, quick learning sessions.
- Cons: Limited to vocabulary, no in-depth grammar lessons.
Best for: Beginners and casual learners who want a fun and quick way to pick up Arabic vocabulary.
Pricing: Free with in-app purchases. Subscriptions: $9.99/month, $69.99/year.
2. AlifBee
AlifBee is tailored for learners at all levels, from beginners to advanced. It offers over 200 lessons across 10 difficulty levels, covering reading, writing, and speaking Arabic. The app is designed to make Arabic learning accessible and enjoyable.
Main Features:
- Comprehensive Lessons: Covers reading, writing, and speaking.
- Traditional Arabic Script: Teaches Arabic script effectively.
- Interactive Activities: Engaging quizzes and cultural references.
- Repetition for Memory: Uses repetition to enhance learning.
- Tailored Learning: Adapts to individual learning speeds.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: In-depth lessons, interactive content, suitable for all levels.
- Cons: Some users find text size small, occasional glitches.
Best for: Those who want a comprehensive and interactive approach to learning Arabic.
Pricing: Free with in-app purchases. Monthly Premium Plan: $14.99, Annual Premium Plan: $89.99.
3. Mondly
Mondly takes a conversational approach to teach Arabic, focusing on helping learners quickly start forming sentences and engaging in dialogues. It combines language exercises with advanced speech recognition technology for a practical learning experience.
Main Features:
- Conversational Focus: Emphasizes learning through dialogue.
- Speech Recognition: Advanced technology to improve pronunciation.
- Interactive Exercises: For reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
- Verb Conjugations: Detailed conjugations for better understanding.
- Adaptive Learning: Customizes lessons based on individual progress.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Effective for conversational skills, advanced speech recognition, adaptive learning.
- Cons: Some content locked behind subscription, some users desire more grammar focus.
Best for: Learners who prioritize speaking and conversational skills in Arabic.
Pricing: Free with in-app purchases.
4. I Read Arabic
I Read Arabic is an educational app designed to help children learn Arabic through engaging games, videos, and stories. It covers the journey from learning Arabic letters to advanced reading levels, making it an ideal tool for young learners.
Main Features:
- Educational Games: Tests comprehension and learning outcomes.
- Extensive Book Library: Over 1000 books, both fiction and non-fiction.
- Learning Basics: Shapes, fruits, and colors in Arabic.
- Reward System: Unlock games after completing tasks.
- Read Aloud Feature: Books are read out loud for better learning.
- Vocabulary Building: Arabic words available after each story.
- Voice Recording: Practice fluency by reading aloud.
- Quizzes and Worksheets: Test comprehension and learning outcomes.
- Personalized Recommendations: Based on reading level and interests.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Wide range of content, interactive learning, suitable for children.
- Cons: Some technical issues reported, such as freezing buttons.
Best for: Young learners beginning their journey in Arabic reading and comprehension.
Pricing: Free trial available. Subscriptions: Monthly – $5.99, Annual – $39.99, Six Months – $29.99.
5. Quranic
Quranic is a unique app designed for Muslims to learn Quranic Arabic. It uses verses, quotes, and readings from the Quran to teach the language in an interactive and engaging way, making it ideal for those interested in religious studies.
Main Features:
- Quranic Focus: Learn Arabic using quotes from the Quran.
- Spaced Repetition: Increases information retention.
- Offline Access: Learn anywhere, anytime.
- Bite-Sized Lessons: Short, focused learning sessions.
- Grammar and Vocabulary: Learn Arabic grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary.
- Verse Memorization: Techniques to memorize Quran verses.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Unique religious focus, effective teaching method, offline access.
- Cons: Limited to Quranic Arabic, may not cover modern conversational Arabic.
Best for: Muslims and others interested in learning Quranic Arabic for religious purposes.
Pricing: Free with in-app purchases. Basic Plan – $4.99, Pro Plan – $9.99.
6. Arabic Dictionary – Dict Box
Arabic Dictionary – Dict Box is a comprehensive dictionary and translator app for English-Arabic learners. It offers a wide range of features for translating and understanding both English and Arabic, making it a valuable tool for language learners.
Main Features:
- Translation: English to Arabic and vice versa.
- Offline Access: No internet connection required.
- Word Suggestions: Smart suggestions for word searches.
- Text Pronunciation: Helps with correct pronunciation.
- Picture Dictionary: Visual learning for better understanding.
- Word Reminder: Helps in memorizing new words.
- Multiple Dictionaries: Access to various dictionaries in one place.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Comprehensive translation features, offline access, multiple sources for definitions.
- Cons: Ads can be intrusive, concerns about clipboard data usage.
Best for: Language learners who need a reliable translation tool for English and Arabic.
Pricing: Free with in-app purchases. Premium Version – $19.99, Monthly – $2.99, Yearly – $9.99.
7. Memrise
Memrise is an app designed for beginners to learn the basics of Arabic through a variety of online educational tools. It uses a mix of fill-in-the-blank and multiple-choice questions, along with sound clips, to enhance listening and vocabulary skills.
Main Features:
- Interactive Learning: Engaging quizzes and exercises.
- Sound Clips: Narrated by native speakers for authentic language exposure.
- Game-Like Features: Leaderboards and reward points to motivate learners.
- Speed Reviews: Quick quizzes for extra practice.
- User-Created Resources: Courses created by other learners.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Engaging for beginners, variety of learning tools, user-generated content.
- Cons: Limited free content, lacks comprehensive grammar coverage.
Best for: Beginners looking for an interactive and fun way to start learning Arabic.
Pricing: Some free materials; Premium Membership required for full access. Monthly: $8.49, Yearly: $29.99, Lifetime: $119.99.
8. ArabicPod101
ArabicPod101 offers pre-recorded video classes that guide learners through real-life Arabic conversations. It provides a range of lesson topics and extra resources to enhance learning.
Main Features:
- Video Lessons: Focus on practical conversation skills.
- Diverse Topics: Wide range of lesson subjects.
- Extra Resources: Additional study materials available.
- Word Lists: Build and review vocabulary.
- Voice Recording: Compare pronunciation with native speakers.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Comprehensive lesson topics, various subscription options.
- Cons: Unorganized course structure, overreliance on English in lessons.
Best for: Learners who prefer structured video lessons for studying Arabic.
Pricing: Free basic option; Premium subscriptions for full access. Monthly: $47, 24-month plan: $549.
9. Duolingo
Duolingo is known for its user-friendly design and gamified approach to language learning. It offers quick and simple lessons in Arabic, making it popular among both kids and adults.
Main Features:
- Interactive Exercises: Fill-in-the-blanks, multiple-choice questions, and flashcards.
- Streaks: Encourages daily use and consistent learning.
- Gamified Learning: Motivates users with points and rewards.
- User-Friendly Design: Easy to navigate for all ages.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Free, quick lessons, engaging for regular practice.
- Cons: Can be repetitive, limited resources, lacks in-depth tutor guidance.
Best for: Beginners and casual learners who want a free and fun introduction to Arabic.
Pricing: Free with ads; Duolingo Plus for an ad-free experience and additional features at $12.99/month.
10. Ling
Ling is a comprehensive language learning app that offers interactive lessons in Arabic among 60 other languages. It is designed by language specialists and focuses on all fundamental language skills, including speaking, writing, listening, and grammar.
Main Features:
- Practical Vocabulary: Teaches useful phrases for various situations.
- Integrated Memorization Process: Uses notecards for language exercises.
- Self-Directed Learning: Allows users to choose topics at their own pace.
- Extensive Exercises: Includes writing and listening activities.
- Cultural Insights: Access to free online reading resources on Arabic culture.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Comprehensive learning approach, practical vocabulary, cultural insights.
- Cons: Limited free lessons, may require a subscription for full access.
Best for: Learners seeking an all-encompassing app for learning Arabic.
Pricing: Free access to the first eight lessons in every language course. Subscription plans: $8.99/month, $79.99 annually, $149 for a lifetime.
11. Busuu
Busuu is a popular app for learning Arabic, offering both traditional and innovative learning methods. It is known for its advanced vocabulary training, innovative grammar tools, and the provision of an official certificate of learning.
Main Features:
- Advanced Vocabulary Training: Focuses on expanding vocabulary.
- Innovative Grammar Tool: Helps in understanding Arabic grammar.
- Official Certificate: Provides certification after lesson completion.
- Personalized Study Plan: Tailors lessons according to user availability.
- Native Speaker Interaction: Practice speaking with Arabic natives.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Comprehensive learning plan, interaction with native speakers, certification.
- Cons: Subscription required for full access, may be pricey for some users.
Best for: Learners looking for a structured and innovative approach to learning Arabic.
Pricing: Three-day free trial. Annual subscription: $70 (around $6/month).
12. HelloTalk
HelloTalk is an all-in-one language exchange app that facilitates learning Arabic through interaction with native speakers. It is ideal for learners aiming to achieve fluency and speak like native speakers.
Main Features:
- Language Exchange: Communicate with native Arabic speakers.
- Voice and Text Messages: Practice pronunciation and writing.
- Grammar Correction: Automatic correction of grammatical errors.
- Cultural Exchange: Learn about Arabic culture through interaction.
- Customizable Learning: Focus on specific dialects or aspects of the language.
Pros and Cons:
- Pros: Real-life language practice, cultural exchange, grammar correction feature.
- Cons: More suitable for advanced learners, limited free version.
Best for: Advanced learners who want to perfect their conversational skills in Arabic.
Pricing: Free version with limited services. Paid packages: $1.99 to $4.99/month, $21.99 to $29.99/year.
Your Gateway to Arabic Mastery
To wrap up, we’ve navigated through a diverse array of apps designed to make learning Arabic accessible and engaging.
While each app has its strengths, Memrise and Duolingo are particularly noteworthy for beginners due to their user-friendly interfaces and gamified learning experiences. For those looking to dive deeper into Arabic grammar and vocabulary, Drops and ArabicPod101 provide more focused and structured learning paths. However, if you’re seeking an all-encompassing solution that combines interactive lessons, cultural immersion, and practical language use, Ling emerges as the top recommendation.
Remember, the effectiveness of an app depends on how well it resonates with your learning style and objectives. By selecting the app that best suits your needs, you’re setting yourself up for a successful and fulfilling journey in mastering the Arabic language.