Arabic language training for beginners is a stepping stone to many opportunities in the global marketplace. Millions of wealthy business people around the world speak Arabic as their first language. A sizable portion of the Arabic speakers converse easily in English, but they usually appreciate people who try to speak their language.

Although Arabic language instruction often concentrates on either the written or spoken language, some Arab language classes will include instruction in both writing and speaking. Many colleges around the world hire native speakers and offer language training in Arabic. Students will also find excellent language schools that specialize in Arab language training classes.

1. Some students learn Arabic more quickly than others, but a dedicated teacher can make a substantial difference in the progress of every student.

2. Learning to speak Arabic may seem daunting because the letters of the Arabic alphabet are very different than the letters in the English alphabet.

3. An Arab language training class should provide activities to encourage the use of the language with other members of the class and the teacher.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Learn Arabic by understanding which sounds are associated with the each letter of the alphabet

The letters of the Arabic language might seem like Greek at first, but a talented instructor will demonstrate the sounds associated with each letter of the language. A dedicated student will soon find out that most of the letters have sounds found in the English language although the letters do not look like the English equivalent. There are some excellent websites with audio facilities that provide free Arabic language training courses.

I recommend: Learn Arabic Online is an interesting starting point to learn the basic sounds of the language and the sounds associated with each letter. Babel: Arabic also provides clear language training in Arabic with an explanation of the sounds and letters of the Arabic language.

Choose Arabic language instruction online or through an independent study course

Many accredited online Arabic classes provide expert instruction for busy people. Most of the accredited online Arabic classes are available for a fee. Some of the courses although not accredited will provide a solid foundation in the language without charge.

I recommend: Muttaqun Online provides an Arab language course starting with basic words and phrases without charge. The Rosetta Stone has a strong track record in language instruction in general, and the Arabic language instruction course is excellent.

Enroll in a program devoted to Modern Standard Arabic language instruction

Modern Standard Arabic language instruction is the most practical for beginners. Native speakers from Oman to Morocco use Arabic, but the informal language varies greatly. Arabic speakers in many countries understand Modern Standard Arabic more than any other form of Arabic although they might not understand dialects peculiar to other countries. Although students might want to learn the language as spoken in a particular country, they will be able to use the Modern Standard Arabic language instruction in more countries and as a stepping stone to other studies.

I recommend: WorldLanguage.com offers exciting opportunities to speak Modern Standard Arabic with native speakers at a reasonable price. The University of Albany offers Modern Standard Language Instruction for beginners who can continue with the program until they reach fluency in the language.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Some of the Arabic language training websites claim to be free but often lead to buying textbooks, videos or tapes.

Learning to speak Arabic can help your company succeed. In a world that is becoming increasingly international, it's important to have foreign language skills. Arabic is one of the most spoken languages in the world, which makes Arabic language training particularly appropriate.

There are a variety of ways that you can get Arabic language instructions. Some people do well by studying at home, while others prefer to attend Arabic language classes.

If you can speak Arabic, you can:

1. Get a job abroad in Arab countries. Some Arab companies need to hire native English speakers to help run their business. However, you will need to learn to speak Arabic before they consider hiring you.

2. Do business with Arabic countries. To maximize your profits, you should always try to sell your goods and services to as wide an audience as possible. If you learn Arabic, you are able to reach a much wider audience.

3. Open a branch office in an Arabic country. Your business may be ready to expand and you've got your eye on a country in the Middle East or North Africa. Since Arabic is the predominant language, it's important to learn how to speak it.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look for free resources for language training in Arabic

If you are just starting out, you may want to make sure you have a strong interest before you spend a lot of money on language learning products. Free online resources to learn Arabic can help you get accustomed to the language and decide whether you want to go further.

I recommend: Babel offers free language lessons in Arabic to help you get started with grammar and writing. Many people feel that Arabic is an intimidating language because it uses a different style of writing. Ukindia offers free lessons in how to read Arabic.

Purchase Arabic language instruction software programs to learn from home

Many people enjoy studying languages from the comfort of their own homes. If this sounds like you, you may want to consider purchasing software that can teach you Arabic. Make sure you choose a program that covers all areas of language learning - speaking, reading and listening.

I recommend: The Rosetta Stone software program is a popular solution. They offer three levels of language learning so that you can progress. Pimsleur offers a basic program that can get you started in learning Arabic.

Take Arab language classes for additional practice

When learning a foreign language, there's nothing quite like being able to interact with others speaking the language. An Arab language training class can help you progress faster than studying on your own.

I recommend: The Boston Language Institute offers classes in Arabic at a reasonable price. Pacific Arabic Resources offers classes at several different levels to suit your needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're serious about Arabic language training, make sure that you study every day. Becoming fluent in a foreign language requires much practice.