The UAE prides itself in a strong education system and actively works to foster its universities, which creates a pull for young, educated, and driven people to join their adventures in whatever UAE location they choose. Language programs in the UAE continue to develop as it is a relatively new nation, but they already offer diverse learning environments from university study to language schools to private tutoring.

Dubai. Since taking the world stage with its booming economy, Dubai is by far the most popular destination for language study in the UAE, and equally for tourism. The city is truly a global crossroads, with people, foods, cultures, and languages all meeting and intersecting in the desert. Once you’ve hit up the flashy sights of downtown Dubai, the city’s other districts are there to bring you back down to Earth. Use your language skills to discuss the 20 art installations on Alserkal Avenue or chat with a barista at one of the new, local cafés in the quieter area of Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT); whatever your style, you’ll be sure to dig language schools in Dubai!

Sharjah. Just north of Dubai, those who seek a more traditional Middle Eastern experience can find just that in the emirate of Sharjah. In 2014, UNESCO reaffirmed Sharjah’s standing as a Capital of Islamic Culture, which has preserved an authentic religious context for the Arabic language. While Sharjah oozes history compared to the UAE’s more modern cities, language learners will find company amidst the student communities of the beautiful American University of Sharjah. With a huge diversity of students on campus, you’ll be sure to hear a mix of both Arabic and English with accents from around the world.

Abu Dhabi. Slowly emerging out of Dubai’s dominating shadow, Abu-Dhabi makes for a prime location to mix up your textbook and local Arabic in the UAE’s capital city. It won’t take long to uncover the city’s vibrant flair as the city streets fill at night with the chatter of locals and the smell of shisha. Maybe you’ll discuss the art seen at the Abu-Dhabi Louvre or history witnessed at the Emirates Palace or Grand Mosque. With so much culture to consume, look out for language programs in Abu Dhabi that offer excursions and activities to supplement your classroom time. Within no time, you’ll sound like a native with the ability to discuss and describe the array of activity in Abu-Dhabi.