Arabic Language Schools in Morocco

Morocco is home to a great deal of striking diversity. In the north you can find beaches and lush forests contrasted by the mountains and Sahara desert in the south. Whether you prefer to be on the coast or up in the mountains, you will find the perfect city in Morocco to learn Arabic. The official languages of Morocco are Arabic and Amazigh (also known as Berber), but each city has developed their own spoken vernacular known as Darija. While locals throughout Morocco know Arabic, you will have a different experience with Arabic dialects depending on which city you select.

Rabat. The capital of Morocco is an obvious choice for many travelers. Though not the biggest city in Morocco (that title goes to Casablanca), Rabat is a major political, business, and administrative hub. Located in northwest Morocco along the Atlantic Ocean, Rabat is home to historical sites dating back to the Roman and Almohad eras. The Medina (old town) is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites and is marked by a stark contrast between Muslim history and Western modernism. This is an excellent place to take intensive Arabic classes in Morocco due to the strong cultural ties to historical Arabic and access to numerous language programs to fit your individual needs. Be careful not to slip into your native tongue in this international city, and know that many major businesses and corporations in Rabat utilize French instead of Arabic.

Tétouan. Just south of the Strait of GIbraltar, only an hour ferry ride from Spain, is the port city Tétouan. With a perfect mix of sandy beaches, soaring mountains, wide reaching orchards, and the Mediterranean Sea, Tétouan has been home to a variety of different religions and cultures. With a strong Spanish influence due to colonization, Tétouan is known for its architecture resembling the Alhambra in Granada. The Medina of Tétouan is also on UNESCO’s World Heritage List thanks to the lively squares, 15th century buildings, and detailed houses. Several different forms of Arabic are spoken on a daily basis here in addition to Spanish and French. Learning Arabic in Tétouan is a unique experience that will provide you with insight into unique dialects of Arabic while also allowing you to learn more traditional Arabic.

Fez. The former capital city of Morocco, and current capital of the Fes-Meknes administrative region, Fez is the second largest city in Morocco. You will find yourself surrounded by the Atlas mountains and expansive pedestrian zones that host a continually bustling street life in the tight compact alleys. Home to the oldest continually operating university in the world and two Medina’s, Fez has impressive walled cities, labyrinths, and gardens that landed it on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. This massive city is a great place to learn Arabic in Morocco because there are numerous opportunities to learn either Moroccan colloquial Arabic or Modern Standard Arabic.

Tangier. In northwest Morocco, near the Strait of Gibraltar, is the third largest city in Morocco: Tangier.  Thanks to its proximity to Spain, Tangier is a popular spot for day visitors and tourists. With rapid development and modernization, there is a beautiful juxtaposition between modernity and historical cultures. Tangier is known for its beautiful leather, wood, and silver working along with traditional Moroccan clothing and shoes. The colloquial version of Arabic most commonly spoken in Tangier is influenced heavily by Spanish and is different from the rest of Morocco. French is commonly used in universities and businesses along with English and Spanish in tourist areas.