The career scope of learning the Arabic language in India has risen to great extents. The article will explore the benefits, demand, courses, and job opportunities after studying Arabic.
There are several reasons to learn a foreign tongue. As the nature of global business changes, so do languages used in communicating in the business process.
And for many, acquiring a new foreign language opens the door to several other activities, like international travel, study abroad, pursuing a hobby, career advancement, and meeting people from different parts of the world.
The cultural aspects, immigration, and careers requiring languages are some of the most influential factors in choosing a language to learn.
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Why Learn the Arabic Language in India?
Why learn Arabic of all languages?
Why not French, Spanish, or German? Or even Mandarin, Korean, or Japanese? Because it seems to be the most practical language to have these days living in India or even abroad?
After Spanish, Hindi, Mandarin Chinese, and English, Arabic is the fifth most spoken language, with an estimated 425 million native and non-native speakers throughout the planet.
The Arabic language is assuming a central position in international business. One cannot underestimate the significance and importance of Arabic in the modern world, and the scope of the Arabic language in India is growing and vast.
Are you interested in studying ancient Eastern history, modern Middle Eastern, religion, or the Arab world? Then, learning the Arabic language will help you in your academic pursuits.
There is an ever-increasing amount of reasons why people should learn it. It is the language of the Holy Koran. Hence Muslims, all over the world consider it sacred.
The Arabic language in India arrived in the eighth century. It carries an almost absolute Islamic identity, to the extent that even the study of pre-Islamic pagan poetry is ascribed to a spiritual impetus.
In India, It is also being taught and learned in more than twenty thousand Madrasas and 100’s of Colleges and Universities, mostly in Northern and some central and western parts of India.
Arabic is becoming a critical language in India and outside it when it comes to operating an international business trying to break into foreign markets.
Learning the Arabic language opens up many employment avenues and possibilities in several different industries such as oil, travel, finance, industrial collaborations, and translation, to name a few.
Some businesses want Arabic speakers onboard to contact local Arab people and obtain an edge when running a business. It might otherwise end up being missed only using English when interpretation and discussions are being made.
It was introduced in the Indian Civil Services examination as early as 1963 for the first time. And it became an optional subject to be taken at the preliminary stage of the test from there onwards.
And how do we know that?
Let’s take a walk through the facts that underline the Arabic language’s scope and why many people are learning Arabic in India.
1. A widely spoken language of historical importance
The Arabic language isn’t just like every other language out there. It is a popular language and spoken by well over 400 million people spread across more than 25 countries globally. The majority of these Arabic-speaking countries are located in the Middle East and the Northern regions of Africa.
As of 2022, It is the official language in 25 Middle Eastern and African countries, such as Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Israel, Morocco, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and many more.
But what makes the language even more important is that it is the language of the Holy Quran — the Holy Book of Islam.
So if you are a Muslim, the scope of learning the Arabic language will put you in a better light of interacting and blending positively into the Islamic/Arabic culture — relating easily with millions of Muslims across the globe.
Although Arabic has been known since the early 4th century, the spread of Islam in the 7th century caused Arabic to gain importance.
Today, the Arabic language is the 5th most spoken language globally and is among the United Nations’ (UN) sixth official languages.
India has ancient historical links with the Arab world and also with Persia. A number of the dynasty from those parts of the world reigned over India for many centuries.
If you pay close attention, you will notice many borrowed words from Arabic, Persian, and Turkish as used in Hindu/Urdu. Mostly spoken language in most parts of India.
Read → (i) Why Learn Persian? (ii) Learn Persian in Delhi (iii) Arabic courses in Delhi (iv) Pros of learning Turkish (iv) Movies to learn Arabic (v) Top Persian Films (vi) Best Turkish Movies.
2. Arabic is a gateway to an economic wealth
Another critical aspect of learning the Arabic language in India lies in the large business and economic opportunities.
Just take a good look at many of the countries where the Arabic language is spoken. You will discover they are places that provide the Western world with vital resources like crude oil and gas.
In today’s world, Arabic is of utmost importance due to the economic significance of the oil-producing Arabic countries in the global scenario. Most of the Arabic-speaking countries are extremely rich in untapped mineral and natural resources.
Your ability to understand and speak Arabic will open doors to countless job opportunities involving languages, especially if you’re into the oil business boom.
Initiatives aimed at integrating the Arab world into the mainstream of the global economy are paying dividends in huge returns. These have led to the opening up of potential and numerous business opportunities.
Thanks to the rapidly growing Arabic population, modernization of the socio-economic, political, and infrastructural developmental strides. The demand for Arabic speakers is moving northwards across the globe.
The Arabic speaking region now provides a vast export market for goods and services. The GDP of the Arabic speaking region is more than 600 billion dollars yearly.
There is a lot more the Arab speaking world has in store to offer the global market. To succeed in your business initiatives, you need to understand the language and culture of the people you are going to engage with.
3. A career-boosting language
A friend of mine once told me that Arabic is a language only terrorists love to speak. But how wrong he was when he came in contact with a job to pay him six figures in a month as a translator.
He missed out simply because he lacks proficiency in the Arabic language. That same week saw him taking classes in Arabic, but the damage had already been done, and that chance may never come again.
Presently, there is a lot of demand for Arabic language speakers. For instance, many companies in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and other cities look out for Arabic speakers in the KPO & BPO sector.
The reason is that most of these companies are involved in colossal business dealings with the Gulf region.
Other sectors like IT, Publishing, Aviation, Education, Finance & Banking, Travel & Tourism, business, and industries in India are hunting for people with proficiency in the Arabic language.
Since Arabic is a widespread language, you can find many positions in foreign embassies in India.
As the Middle East continues to accelerate in development, it has attracted substantial investment opportunities as well.
Most of the Arabic-speaking country’s economies are prosperous and are developing at a fast pace. For instance, Qatar is the wealthiest in the world, and it has attracted a lot of interest and visitors, mainly from the western world.
These have opened up demand for career opportunities such as transcribers and translators in the Hospitality & Tourism sectors.
The export and import companies continue to look for people who can speak English and Arabic to handle their foreign clients and business engagement.
After learning Arabic, You can work as an Arabic language teacher or faculty.
You can also explore possibilities as a transcriptor, translator, interpreter, editor, proofreader, researcher, content writer. You can work either as a freelance linguist or for any organization.
4. Job opportunity in Middle-East & Arab World
One of the reasons many Indians are learning the Arabic language is to enable them to get jobs in the Middle East or other parts of the Arab world. There are so many employment opportunities for people who are knowledgeable in Arabic plus English.
If you have plans to visit an Arabic-speaking country such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, or Morocco, consider taking accelerated Arabic courses before you go.
By taking a class, you will be able to quickly and conveniently learn the basics of the language, which will make your travels abroad less stressful and more enjoyable.
Taking the time to learn the Arabic language will allow you to immerse yourself in a fascinating new culture. It perhaps helps to change a few stereotypes, enhance your travels, and supplement your academic pursuits.
Gone are the days when the dream of petrol dollars is the only motivating factor driving people to study Arabic. Today, call centers opportunities, finance and banking, journalism, and more, are new career prospects that inform people’s decisions to learn the Arabic language.
5. Arabic is a language of strategic importance
In India, the Arabic language is one of the most sought-after subjects among defense personnel. As stated earlier, the Middle East and the Gulf region are increasingly becoming a strategic point for crucial nations worldwide, including India.
The United States has become active in the region for many years, increasing its presence. Russia has followed suit, and China just voiced its interest in becoming more involved in the Middle East.
All these points to the strategic importance of the region. Any why not, since it is blessed with a considerable concentration of mineral and natural resources. As such, these countries’ intelligence agencies are actively looking for people who can speak Arabic fluently.
Your proficiency in the Arabic language can earn you a job in the Indian secret service, immigration, or in the Foreign Service department.
Arabic Language Courses in India
Arabic education in India is essentially the monopoly of madrassas, but there are several courses in various parts of India for non-Muslims who may be interested. Madrassas mostly teach Islamic theology and Koran.
You have options if you feel that you should learn the Arabic language for academic or career possibilities. There are several ways you can go about learning how to read, write, and speak.
You can attend a college or university and earn a degree in Arabic. Today, It is being taught for many decades, and it has found its place in more than 50 universities. JNU, University of Delhi, BHU, Jamia Millia Islamia, Kolkata University, Mumbai University, Bangalore University, Osmania University, to name a few.
These centers are now offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and Doctoral Degree Programs in the modern Arabic language.
Arabic is also part of the curriculum in many academic areas such as Engineering, Mathematics, Philosophy, Biotechnology, Information Communication & Technology, Medical, Arts, Fine Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Literature, Applied Sciences, etc.
Many want to learn to pursue a hobby or joy of learning. By studying Arabic at a college or university, you will gain complete knowledge of reading formal Arabic, which will undoubtedly assist you in your academic research and career.
Final thought
Arabic is a beautiful and musical language, and it is high time that appropriate action should be taken to promote the growth of the Arabic language.
There is a shortage of intellectuals when it comes to speaking Arabic. So it’s almost a guarantee that you’re most likely going to reap a huge benefit from it once you become proficient in the tongue.
By the inception of the 21st century, the Arabic language demand in India has increased manifold augmenting career prospects in various fields.
Hi, I have done both bachelor’s and master’s in the Arabic language from JNU. I am currently working for Accenture. But could you please tell me if it would be beneficial for me to do MBA from a distance to get a high-paying job in any of the Gulf countries? If yes, then which specialization would be better? Finance, HR, Marketing, or what? Kindly help me out with it if you can.
Thanks
Md Yunus
MBA is more beneficial if it is done through the regular programs from a reputed academic institution. You can still consider distance learning, though not highly recognized. Specializtion depends on your career goal and types of job you prefer. Usually, most prefer based on previous academic qualifications.
Hello, I know Arabic very well if u need any type of Arabic translator or want to learn Arabic. I am born and bought up in this language. If anyone interest to learn and for a job profile plz, contact me.
Very super this source.
I have done B.pharmacy. So is there good scope for learning Arabic?
If you work in companies from the Middle-east or an organization that deals with this region.
Which languages work the most in 1) IT sector, 2) Tourism sector, 3) Teaching sector and 4) Translation interpretation sector in India?
There is no specific language that matches best with the above-mentioned respective field.
Hi Vikash,
Can you please tell if learning Arabic is beneficial for Software or IT people and also for freelancers?
Thanks
Raghav
There are always some opportunities, but they are limited.
Thanks
Dear Vikash
Thanks for writing this article. This couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time. Truly appreciate your efforts.
Thanks for your appreciation, Ahmad 🙂
At which University I study Arabic in India? And I want to study only Arabic. Now, now I study for BCA. So, how can I study Arabic and which city?
Since you’re already doing a bachelor’s program, you can consider part-time courses in various universities like DU, JMI, and many more. Arabic is offered in several colleges across India.
There are several places in Delhi where you can learn Arabic on a part-time basis. I know it well as I am an Arabic teacher in one of the prestigious universities of the country. You can contact me if needed.
Assalam o Alaikum Dr. M . Akram Nawaz, this is Arzoo Khan. I have done my graduation in biotechnology, but since my childhood, it’s been my dream to learn Arabic language. Could you let me know how I can fulfill my dream? I’ll be thankful.
I am not sure if he can answer. If you wish to learn Arabic, find a teacher or join any learning center. You can also pick the path of self-study through books, audio, and other resources.
Please recommend self-study resources.
I haven’t checked Arabic language resources.
Hello sir, good evening. I want a cal course. Plz guide me.
Sorry, I didn’t get you. Can you elaborate with some details?
In DGRS placements, Italian is demanded or not?
They do provide placement help, but it is insufficient. In many cases, you have to find a job on your own.
I’d done a Basic certification course from NCPUL, Delhi, in the Arabic language. I have been traveling to Saudi Arabia on short visits several times in my Job period, and I knew enough about their culture. Currently, I have no employment right now. How can Arabic help me to earn my bread at this crucial time? Please help me concentrate on the field that I can choose for earning with the help of the Arabic language. I will be very grateful to you in my whole life. P.S. I can read Arabic normally, Knowing Mostly but not Speaking very much fluent.
Thank You
It is a difficult time for everyone. You can contact some companies and agencies that provide jobs requiring Arabic language skills. Some of them also offer part-time work meant for freelancers. It might take time to find such employment, but surely possible. Good luck!
I want to do an Arabic language certificate course. I am working as a typist in a library and want to increase my knowledge of Arabic.
You can join any College or University for a one-year part-time Certificate course in Arabic. You can also try IGNOU’s distance learning Certificate in Arabic Language (CAL).
I am a BA student, and I want to add some skills together with graduation. How about Arabic? Is this the best option? What is the job opportunity in India? I am very confused about language selection. Can you help me please sir?
Arabic is a good choice, but job opportunities are limited in India compare to European languages. If your target is middle-east countries, then it will be more valuable
Hello Sir, my name is Rakesh. What benefit is of Arabic language for me? Actually, I want to do a job there in the middle east country as an engineer. I started to learn Arabic, and I can continue to learn this language. Give me some advice. Thanks, sir.
Arabic is not compulsory to get a job in Middle-east. Most people do speak English. If you are sure about moving to Middle-east, you can learn Arabic. It will enhance your career possibilities.
Hi Sir,
Which type of Arabic should I learn MSA or dialect?
The modern standard Arabic.
Hello,
I am working as a data entry operator, and now I have completed 30 years of my age. But, I want to get a higher paying job. For it, I am thinking of learning the Arabic language. Please suggest 1) scope of this language in India 2) In Delhi, which Institute is considered by companies 3) how much amount need for this course and time?
Munna khan
1) The scope is okay but comparatively less than other popular languages like French, Spanish, German, Japanese, and Mandarin. 2) You can join any institute as a company preference is your skills, and not from where you have done the course. 3) 2-3 years to achieve the upper intermediate level. Fee varies. Check — Learn Arabic in Delhi.
Please let me know is there any job opportunity for me. I have done BA in the Arabic language for job purposes.
Contact companies offering jobs for Arabic specialists. Besides, you can make your profile on various job portals.
Sir,
I am in my mid-40s and am an IT professional based out of Hyderabad, India. I am interested in writing and am considering taking up part-time or freelance work as a technical writer, ghost-writer, or being a translator. I was considering learning one or more of the following three (not in any particular order): 1) Mandarin 2) Spanish 3) Arabic.
Request you to let me know which of the above you would recommend considering the a) scope of work available, b) talent already available in India, and c) level of difficulty.
1) Scope – Spanish (Highest), Mandarin, Arabic. 2) Talent availability – Spanish (highest), Arabic, Mandarin. 3) Difficulty – Between 3, Mandarin is the most difficult language, whereas Spanish is the easiest language.
Hi, I am an MBA graduate and want to learn Arabic as it will open many career opportunities. I want to be a translator for companies. Please tell me how I should go about it. Is certification necessary? If yes, How can I do it offline with my regular job?
Relevant Certification is required for most jobs. Once you achieve higher proficiency, you can explore opportunities as a freelance translation, teaching, and more.
Hi, I want to learn a language so I can work as a translator. Can you please guide which language I should go for and how much time it will take to study?
The choice of language depends on numerous factors. That is why it is challenging to suggest any specific one. You can read more, and I’m sure you’ll able to make the right decision. As far as time is concerned to become a translator, it usually will take 3-5 years, depending on the language.
Hi, I am a social media and communication professional, looking for better job prospects in the UAE / Middle East. Will learning Arabic be of an advantage?
Yes, to some extent.
Hi, I’m already working in the tourism industry. I need to update my profile so, kindly suggest me Arabic is right for me.
Arabic is okay though there are languages with better career possibilities!
Sir, I am doing graduation from arts. This is the final year. Sir, I want to make a career in a foreign language. I have selected three languages Japanese, Spanish, and Arabic. Which language from these is easy to learn and have high career scope? Sir, I want to go with Japanese. Is there any degree required in that language because it will take three years. Please tell me about the JLPT exam.
Between these three languages, Spanish is the easiest one. Career-wise, Japanese and Spanish offers more career options. You can enroll in any private institute to achieve JLPT N2 in 3-4 years.
Hello,
I have completed Msc in mathematics but not much interested in the teaching profession. Does learning a new language help me with some other right profession. Kindly advise which language would be suitable for my education.
It might help, but it will take a few years to learn a language properly. It is something that you have to ponder about, considering everything. Without knowing a particular subjective or objective goal, it is impossible to suggest any language. You can go through some articles on this blog, and let me know if you have any question.
Please let me know is it beneficiary to go with online certification course for the Arabic Language other than coaching center or doing diploma and degree for making a career? Please suggest me to expert in language within a short duration of time?
No. Regular Language classes are always better than Online courses. Language learning takes time. It is not possible to achieve the Advanced level in a short span of time.
Hi,
I want to learn Arabic part time in Mumbai University for job prospects and request you to share the schedule of the classes. I have seen the MU website and tried calling all the listed phone numbers but none seem to work or answer. Also, request you to share options of good classes to learn Arabic, certificates of which would be recognized in other countries.
I’m not aware of many good options for Arabic in Mumbai. The Mumbai University offers a 3-year Arabic course divided into Certificate, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma. For Admission, you can try contacting 26543-313/452. If phone is unreachable, visit Department of Arabic at Kalina campus in Santa Cruz East. Read — Mumbai University Language Courses
Please let me know good online learning for Arabic in India Especially in Pune. I saw that “National Council for the promotion of Urdu” has a Diploma course (not online but centers) but there is no center in Pune. So the only option for me while being in Pune is Online. I am interested in learning only the language – for a grasp on it and literature etc. Not for religious purposes – that is another blocker. Kindly send pointers.
You can try some local classified ads to find an Arabic tutor in Pune. Additionally, there is no harm in trying any online course you may come across. Read – Foreign Language Courses in Pune
Are you looking for Arabic speakers?
As of now, No!
Yes, i would like to communicate with Arabic seekers.
Team,
I am experienced Arabic Teacher seeking a suitable opportunity. I have done BA in Arabic Language and its equivalent From The USA and also done English and French Languages certificate From The Grenoble university France as well as German Language certificate ZDF. I have 25 years of experience in teaching and currently working in a French school in Casablanca Morocco.
Best Regards.
If you want to work in India, you can apply to numerous new openings. You can try various India centric job portals site. Good Luck!