Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language: Dalal Abo El Seoud
Effective methods of teaching Arabic as a foreign language (TAFL) incorporate both communication and creativity to address the complexities ...
About the Department of Arabic Language Instruction (ALI)
ALI is one of the oldest language and culture hubs in the Middle East. Housed in The American University in Cairo, a century-old, private, accredited institution of higher education, among the premier foreign institutions in the Middle East, it welcomes students from all over the world seeking knowledge of Arabic at all levels.
Why Study Arabic?
Unique Location
A Flagship Program in MENA/West
Scholarship Opportunities
Enriching Cultural Dimension
Distinguished Alumni
Highly Qualified Instructors
Explore Our Arabic Programs
AUC’s world-renowned program teaches courses in Modern Standard Arabic and Egyptian Colloquial Arabic at the elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels.
Student Reflections
I moved to Cairo from Australia which was undoubtedly one of the best decisions of my life! I received incredible academic and personal support from my teachers. The quality of teaching was amazing and the events and trips introduced us to Egypt and allowed us to feel at home instantly.
/
Located in a country most well-known for its ancient civilization and culture, and a home for one of the world’s great wonders of the world, the Pyramids, Egypt provides an excellent opportunity for a cultural and historic immersion experience.
Distinguished Alumni
Nicholas Kristof
Op-Ed Columnist, The New York Times; Best-Selling Author, Two-Time Pulitzer Prize Winner
Lisa Anderson
Former President of AUC
Yuriko Koike
Governor of Tokyo
Ben Wedeman
Senior International Correspondent, CNN
Campus Experience
To ensure a smooth transition to Egypt, AUC provides a safe and welcoming campus that becomes your home away from home.
Biennial International Conference on:
"Innovation and the Evolving Landscape of Arabic Language Learning: K-16 and Beyond"
Join global experts in Arabic linguistics and pedagogy to explore the latest research, innovative teaching and future trends in K-16 education. This event will bring together scholars, educators, policymakers, and practitioners from across the globe to foster vibrant dialogue and collaboration in Arabic linguistics and pedagogy.
December 17 - 18, 2025
AUC New Cairo
Publications
Meet the Team
Shahira Yacout
Chair of the Department of Arabic Language Instruction
t: +20.2.2615.2152
[email protected]
Sylvia Maher
Executive Assistant to Chair
t: +20.2.2615.1725
[email protected]