Qatari Arabic Phrasebook
Master 200+ essential phrases for connecting with locals
Cultural Tip: Qataris deeply appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak Arabic. Even a simple "Shukran" (thank you) can brighten someone's day!
Peace be upon you
السلام عليكم
As-salamu alaykum
The most common greeting. Always respond with 'Wa alaykum as-salam'
And upon you be peace
وعليكم السلام ورحمة الله
Wa alaykum as-salam wa rahmat Allah
Formal response to greeting
Good morning
صباح الخير
Sabah al-khair
Used until noon. Respond with 'Sabah an-noor'
Good evening
مساء الخير
Masa al-khair
Used after noon. Respond with 'Masa an-noor'
How are you?
شلونك؟
Shlonak?
Qatari dialect. For female: 'Shlonik?'
How is your family?
شلون أهلك؟
Shlon ahlak?
Polite way to ask about someone's well-being
I'm fine, praise God
زين، الحمد لله
Zain, alhamdulillah
Common response to 'how are you'
We're doing well, thank God
بخير، الحمد لله
Bkhair, alhamdulillah
Humble response
Welcome!
أهلا وسهلا
Ahlan wa sahlan
Used to welcome guests. Very important in Qatari culture
You're welcome
أهلاً فيك
Ahlan feek
Warm welcome for visitors
Happy to see you
تشرفت / تشرفنا
Tsharraft / Tsharrafna
Expression of joy at meeting
Hi / Hey
مرحبا / هاي
Marhaba / Hi
Casual greeting among friends
Building Friendships in Qatar
The Majlis Tradition
The majlis is a traditional gathering space where Qataris welcome guests, share stories, and build community bonds. If invited to a majlis, it's a true honor.
Coffee Etiquette
Arabic coffee (gahwa) is served in small cups. Accept with your right hand and drink 1-3 cups. To signal you've had enough, gently shake the cup side to side.
Friday Traditions
Friday is the holy day. After Jumu'ah (Friday prayer), families gather for a large lunch. If a Qatari friend invites you to Friday lunch, you're being welcomed into their inner circle.
Showing Respect
Use titles like "Sheikh" for elders or respected men. Avoid pointing your feet at people. Ask about family but never about someone's wife specifically.