The Learn Levantine Arabic in Palestine program offers a valuable chance for individuals interested in studying and acquiring proficiency in Shami Arabic (also known as Levantine Arabic or Ammiya) while engaging with the local community in Palestine. Shami Arabic is spoken by approximately 42 million people across four Arab countries, namely Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.
The Levantine dialect stands out as the most readily comprehensible variant for individuals from Gulf countries or Arab nations in the northernmost regions of the African continent, such as Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, and Libya. By learning the Shami dialect, you will gain the ability to effectively communicate with a wide audience of people.
The Learn Levantine Arabic in Palestine program provides an excellent opportunity for non-native speakers to acquire Arabic language skills. You will have access to all the necessary learning materials and receive instruction from our experienced and qualified native Arabic teachers.
What does the term “Shami” or “Levantine” (Ammiya) Arabic refer to?
Shami or Levantine (Ammiya) Arabic refers to the dialects of Arabic spoken in the region historically known as “Greater Syria.”These dialects originated from the Arabic language as it evolved and was spoken following the Arab conquest of Sham in the 7th century AD. This linguistic transformation occurred as the region transitioned from Aramaic to Arabic, both of which belong to the Semitic language family.
Shami or Levantine Arabic encompasses two main divisions: the northern dialects, prevalent in western Syria and Lebanon, and the southern dialects, prevalent in northern Palestine and northwestern Jordan. These dialects trace their roots back to traditional Arabic dialects, particularly those spoken in rural areas. For instance, the Shami/Levantine variant originates from a handful of rural dialects that retain the ancient Arabic vowel sounds. Additionally, Shami Arabic maintains the most accurate pronunciation of Classical Arabic.
Why Study Shami Arabic in Palestine?
Arabic serves as a language with historical significance, representing the ancient Arab and Islamic civilizations, while also functioning as a vibrant contemporary language spoken by diverse societies. The geographical area in which Arabic is prevalent often garners global attention. Due to various factors like politics, diplomacy, economics, business, religion, culture, education, and tourism, there is a growing interest among non-native speakers to learn Arabic. This trend highlights the multifaceted appeal of the language.
Arabic, recognized as one of the official languages of the United Nations, holds a prominent position as one of the most extensively spoken languages globally. It serves as the predominant language in the Levant, Arabian Peninsula, and North Africa regions. Arabic is often referred to as “the language of Daad” due to its unique characteristic. It stands out from other languages by featuring a specific letter, known as daad, that is not present in any other language worldwide.
Who teaches the Shami/Levantine (Palestinian) Arabic courses ?
The Palestinian Center prides itself on maintaining a highly qualified and dedicated staff comprising proficient Arabic and English speakers. Within this team, there are accomplished instructors who possess a deep understanding of teaching Arabic as a foreign language.
The Arabic instructors at the Palestinian Center bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their teaching practice. They are well-versed in various pedagogical approaches and methodologies specifically tailored to meet the needs of non-native Arabic learners. Their proficiency in English allows them to effectively communicate and interact with students, facilitating a smoother learning experience.
Furthermore, these instructors not only possess a strong command of the Arabic language but also have a comprehensive knowledge of the cultural nuances and contextual aspects associated with it. This enables them to provide students with a holistic learning environment, where language acquisition is accompanied by an understanding of the rich cultural heritage embedded within the Arabic language.
Brief Information of the Study Shami/Palestinian Dialect in Palestine Program
Place of Study Shami/Levantine Arabic Program
Hebron (H1 – Under Palestinian Control), Palestine
Study Shami/Levantine Arabic Program Fees
Super Intensive Arabic Course = Starting from 580$ Intensive Arabic Course = Starting from 430$ Non-Intensive Arabic Course = Starting from 315$
Age
18-75 Years Old
Minimum Duration of Study Shami/Levantine Arabic in Palestine Program
Super Intensive Arabic Course = One Week – 30 Hours Intensive Arabic Course = One Week – 20 Hours Non-Intensive Arabic Course = One Week – 12 Hours
Maximum Durationof Study Shami/Levantine Arabic in Palestine Program
Super Intensive Arabic Course = 12 Weeks x 30 Hours Intensive Arabic Course = 12 Weeks x 20 Hours Non-Intensive Arabic Course = 12 Weeks x 12 Hours
Arabic Studying Hours
Super Intensive Arabic Course = 6 hours a day x 5 days a week. Intensive Arabic Course = 4 hours a day x 5 days a week. Non-Intensive Arabic Course = 4 hours a day x 3 days a week.
One Studying Hour
45 Minutes
Type of Arabic Class
Individual Class (One to One)
Arabic Classes Time
Morning (8:30-12:30), Afternoon (12:30 -16:00)
Starting/Ending Dates
Flexible – Anytime
Application Deadline
No Deadline
Days off
Two days including Fridays & Thursdays or Saturdays
Educational Degree
Not Required
University Credit
Available
When do Shami/Levantine Arabic Courses in Palestine take place?
The Study Arabic Levantine in Palestine program offers a remarkable level of flexibility, allowing participants to customize their Arabic language learning experience according to their individual preferences. Students have the freedom to select the desired start and end dates for their program, tailoring it to fit their specific needs.
To facilitate this personalized approach, the Center’s administration collaborates closely with Arabic students to arrange and coordinate their schedules. Whether you prefer an intensive immersion experience or a more gradual learning pace, the program structure can be adjusted to accommodate your requirements. Participants have the option to engage in Arabic classes in Palestine for a duration ranging from a single week up to three months. This wide range of time frames allows learners to select the length of their program based on their objectives, availability, and desired level of linguistic proficiency.
By offering such flexibility, the Study Arabic Levantine in Palestine program ensures that students have the opportunity to maximize their language learning potential while also immersing themselves in the vibrant cultural and historical aspects of Palestine.
Types of Shami/Levantine Arabic Courses in Palestine :
1. Study Super Intensive Shami/Levantine Arabic in Palestine (One on One) – 5 Days a Week
Enroll in our Super Intensive Shami/Levantine Arabic Study Program in Palestine, featuring one-on-one sessions, five days a week. Each session spans four hours, resulting in a total of 30 instructional hours weekly. The program runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday designated for worship and rest, and Saturday observed as the weekend in Palestine.
This immersive Levantine Arabic course is tailored for individuals seeking a rapid and comprehensive language learning experience. It is particularly suitable for those with limited time in Palestine who aim to maximize their language acquisition during their stay.
2. Study Intensive Shami/Levantine Arabic in Palestine (one on one) – 5 Days a Week
The student takes five days of lessons per week. Each lesson lasts for four hours. This is a total of 20 hours per week. The week begins on Sunday and runs through to Thursday (Friday, the day of worship and rest, and Saturday is the “weekend” in Palestine).
This intensive Levantine Arabic is ideal for those who wish to learn Arabic intensively and in a short period of time. This type, of course, is recommended for those who want to learn as much language as possible during their short stay in Palestine.
3. Study Regular Shami/Levantine Arabic Palestine (one on one) – 3 Days a Week
The student takes three lessons per week for four hours per lesson for a total of 12 hours per week. The week begins on Sunday and runs through to Thursday (Friday, the day of worship and rest, and Saturday is the “weekend” in Palestine).
This non-intensive Sahmi/Levantine Arabic in Palestine is suitable for people who lack the time necessary to participate in daily lessons, or who simply need more time to follow up on what has been learned in the lesson or to finish homework. Some students wish to have more time for visiting landmarks in Palestine, as well as learning the Arabic language.
The non-intensive Sahmi/Levantine Arabic in Palestine may be suitable for foreigners living in Palestine and working in international or local institutions. Those who live in Israel who would like to learn Shami, such as students and workers, but with limited time for language lessons may appreciate a more abbreviated lesson schedule.
Our Arabic in Palestine Program Fees
1. Super Intensive Arabic Course – 5 Days a Week
580$ (American Dollar)
This includes 30 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
1000$ (American Dollar)
This includes 60 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
1500$ (American Dollar)
This includes 90 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
2100$ (American Dollar)
This includes 120 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
3900$ (American Dollar)
This includes 240 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
5850$ (American Dollar)
This includes 360 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
2. Intensive Arabic Course – 5 Days a Week
430$ (American Dollar)
This includes 20 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
775$ (American Dollar)
This includes 40 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
1100$ (American Dollar)
This includes 60 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
1450$ (American Dollar)
This includes 80 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
2850$ (American Dollar)
This includes 160 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
4350$ (American Dollar)
This includes 240 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, day trips, daily Palestinian breakfast, and a certificate of participation.
3. Non-Intensive Arabic Course – 3 Days a Week
315$ (American Dollar)
This includes 12 hours ofArabic classes, accommodation, local visits, daily Palestinian breakfast, certificate of participation.
575$ (American Dollar)
This includes 24 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, daily Palestinian breakfast, certificate of participation.
875$ (American Dollar)
This includes 36 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, daily Palestinian breakfast, certificate of participation.
1150$ (American Dollar)
This includes 48 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, daily Palestinian breakfast, certificate of participation.
2450$ (American Dollar)
This includes 96 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, daily Palestinian breakfast, certificate of participation.
3575$ (American Dollar)
This includes 144 hours of Arabic classes, accommodation, local visits, daily Palestinian breakfast, certificate of participation.
Available Shami/Levantine Arabic Courses Levels at GO Palestine
Shami/Levantine Arabic – Level (A1)
This Arabic level will teach the student to understand and use basic everyday expressions and phrases that are designed to meet specific needs. At the course’s conclusion, the student will be able to introduce him or herself in Arabic, and he/she will be able to ask and answer questions asking for personal details, such as where he or she lives, the people he or she knows, and the things he or she owns. The student will be able to slowly and clearly converse in basic Arabic conversation.
Shami/Levantine Arabic- Level (A2)
At the conclusion of this Arabic level, the student will be able to understand frequently used phrases that are related to personal and family background, shopping, local geography and directions, and employment. He or she will be able to converse in routine topics and will be able to describe in simple Arabic terms his or her character, the environment, and issues concerning immediate needs.
Shami/Levantine Arabic – Level (A3)
At the conclusion of this Arabic level, the student will be able to understand familiar issues relating to work, recreation, school, and daily travel, as well as be able to deal with most of the situations likely to arise during travel. The student will be able to write simple Arabic text on familiar or personal topics, and he or she will be able to describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and aspirations and briefly give reasons and interpretations of opinions and plans.
Shami/Levantine Arabic – Level (A4)
At this advanced Arabic level, the student will be able to understand the main ideas of complex texts, both in specific topics or in the abstract, including topics within specialized areas. The student at this stage becomes able to interact with a degree of spontaneity and fluency that makes regular interaction with speakers without stress to either side. The student at this stage will be able to produce clear and detailed Arabic texts on a wide range of subjects. He or she will be able to explain his or her point of view on an issue of the day and describe the pros and cons of the issue.
Shami/Levantine Arabic – Level (A5)
The student at this Arabic level will be able to understand lengthy Arabic texts, including the implicit meanings of the text. He or she will be able to express him or herself fluently and spontaneously. Students will be able to use the Arabic language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. Students will be able to produce clear, well-structured, and detailed texts on complex subjects. These Arabic texts will demonstrate effective organizational methods, linking, and cohesive structures.
Where do I live while studying Shami/Levantine Arabic in Palestine?
The Palestinian Center will arrange your living quarters with either a Palestinian host family or at our 8th-floor apartment in Hebron, which is conveniently located in the city center and within easy reach of supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation. Daily breakfast at the Center with other internationals is included in the program.
Things to know before you come to Palestine!
Living Costs in Palestine
Approx. 50-70$ a Week
Weekend in Palestine
On Friday
Food in Palestine
The West Bank engages primarily in heavier meals involving the use of bread, rice, and meat, and coastal plain inhabitants frequent fish, other seafood, and lentils.
Wifi Access in Palestine
At houses, cafes, restaurants – Almost everywhere
3G Service in Palestine
Available since Jan 2018
The official language in Palestine
Arabic – Palestinian Dialect (One of the Levantine dialects)
Currency in Palestine
MainlyIsraeli Shekel (NIS). Jordanian Dinar & American Dollars are also used in buying Real estate and land.
We at GO Palestine are keen to make your weekly schedule diversified, rich, and organized. Thus, it will contain a number of educational, social, and fun activities that will make your experience in Palestine special and unique.
The First Arabic Class starts at 8:30
The day is divided into three Arabic classes. The first Arabic class begins at 8:30 in the morning and continues till breakfast at 9:30.
Breakfast starts at 9:30 am
The breakfast starts at 9:30 in the morning and ends at approximately 10:15. Our breakfast contains a number of ingredients, including Palestinian thyme (Zaatar), labneh, tomato, cucumber slices, falafel, hummus, mortadella, olives, yellow cheese, jam, pita bread, boiled or fried eggs, and French fries. The ingredients are changed (among the mentioned ingredients) from time to time to diversify the breakfast.
The second Arabic Class starts at 10:15
The second Arabic class begins at 10:15 am directly after the breakfast and continues at 11:15 am. After that, you will get five minutes break.
The Third Arabic Class starts at 11:20
The third Arabic class begins at 11:20 am directly after the break and continues at 12:20 pm.
Homework & Revision starts at 12:20
Homework and revision are designed to give you enough time to do all your homework as well as a little revision after the class so that you achieve the maximum benefit of the class. It starts at 12:20 and till 2:00 pm.
Lunch Break starts at 2:00 pm
At two o’clock in the afternoon begins the lunch break, which lasts for an entire hour. You can buy lunch from a restaurant next to the center. There are a number of restaurants nearby, which provide meals such as shawarma, falafel, and fried chicken as well as traditional Palestinian meals such as Maqluba, Hebron’s Qidreh,Chicken Mansaf or Lamp Mansaf, and other meals. There are also a number of supermarkets/malls nearby where you can buy what you need and cook yourself in the center.
Day Trips to Refugee Camps in Bethlehem & Hebron
Once every week, a day trip is organized to the refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, as well as to areas of political importance whenever the opportunity arises. These trips will give you the opportunity to learn about the conditions of the Palestinian refugees, talk to them and learn their stories. These trips depart at 10:45 am from the center and end approx. at 2:00 or 3:00 in the afternoon.
Local Visits to Learn about the Landmarks of the city of Hebron
Once every two weeks, local visits are organized to the historical and economic landmarks of the city of Hebron. This includes a visit to the Ibrahimi Mosque, the Old City, and Al-Shuhada Street as well as visiting a number of factories in the city, such as keffiyeh, glass, and ceramic factories.
Prepare & Cook a Traditional Palestinian Dish
Once every two or three weeks, all our volunteers, interns, and Arabic language’ students join together to prepare and cook a traditional Palestinian dish. This includes preparing appetizers, frying vegetables, cooking rice, chopping chicken or meat, and stuffing some vegetables depending on the dish to be cooked that day.
Free Time starts at 16:00 or at 16:30
After your time in the center is over, you have free time where you can hang out with other international participants and/or locals you met during your stay in Hebron by going to a café or coffee shop or going to a park and enjoying your time in the evening. There are many cafes and parks not far from the center, as the center is located on one of the most lively streets in the city.
What happens when I’m not studying Shami Arabic?
Besides studying Shami/Levantine Arabic in Palestine, you will have plenty of opportunities to participate in our social, cultural, and community activities. Many community activities in Hebron are organized and presented by the center. Additionally, the Center organizes visits to local sites of interest in the city of Hebron.
Sightseeing may include visits to the old city and its many souqs and markets, the Ibrahimi Mosque, a refugee camp, the Russian Orthodox Church is known for its beautiful gold dome, and the glass factories, to name a few destinations. Hebron is a city full of cafés and restaurants where you can spend an enjoyable time.
Arabic Placement Test
Students who have a knowledge of Arabic or who have already studied Arabic will need to take an exam to assess their language skill abilities before deciding on the required level of study.
Who is eligible to apply to Shami/Levantine Arabic in Palestine program?
Participants between the ages of 18-75 are eligible to participate in the Shami/Levantine Arabic program. No academic degree is required in order to apply.
Those who are younger than 18 years old can also apply but with one condition. One of your parents has to fill out and sign a parental consent form.
Travel instructions to Hebron, PalestineKnow all about Hebron City Know what your day looks like
How do I apply or receive additional information?
Please send an email to Mr. Tamimi, at info@gopalestine.org. Please type “Study Shami Arabic in Palestine Program” or “Study Levantine Arabic in Palestine” in the subject line. In the body of the email tell us of your interest, ask any questions you may have, and request an application. Very shortly we will reply to you.
