10 Different Ways to Say Hello in Arabic (With Meanings & Usage)
Arabic is an expressive language with over 400 million native speakers in over 20 countries. One of the first phrases anyone is taught when learning a new language is how to say hello. Greetings in Arabic are more than just an exchange of words; they are about culture, respect, and hospitality.
If you’re learning Arabic for travel, business, or personal interest, learning to say hello in different ways will make you sound like a native speaker.
1. As-salāmu ʿAlaykum (ٱلسَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ)
Meaning: Peace be upon you
This is the most common and polite way to greet someone in Arabic. It is commonly used in both formal and informal situations and has strong roots in Islamic culture, although it is used in a social manner as well.
Response: (وعليكم السلام) Wa ʿalaykumu s-salām – And peace be upon you too.
When to use: Anytime, anywhere—especially in professional or respectful contexts.
2 Marḥaban - مرحبا
Meaning: Hello / Welcome
3 Ahlan - (أهلاً)
Meaning: Hi / Welcome
Ahlan is a warm and welcoming greeting. It is commonly used when entering shops, homes, and offices.
Common response: Ahlan bik (for a man) or Ahlan biki (for a woman)
When to use: In casual conversations.
5 Salām ( السلام)
Meaning: Peace / Hi
A more casual and concise version of As-salāmu ʿalaykum. It’s mostly used among friends and younger people.
When to use: Informal situations, texts, or casual greetings.
6. Ṣabāḥ al-Khayr (صباح الخير)
Meaning: Good morning
This greeting is used until around noon. It is a polite one and is commonly used in the workplace and in school systems.
Response: Ṣabāḥ an-nūr – (صباح النور) Morning of light.
7. Masā’ al-Khayr - (مساء الخير)
Meaning: Good evening
Used from late afternoon onwards, this greeting can be used in both formal and informal situations.
Response: Masā’ an-nūr – (مساء النور)
8. Kayfa ḥālak? - (كيف حالك؟)
Meaning: How are you?
While technically a question, it’s often used as a greeting right after saying hello.
To a man: Kayfa ḥālak?
To a woman: Kayfa ḥālik?
9. Shu Akhbārak? - شو أخبارك
Meaning: What’s up? / How’s it going?
This is a Levantine Arabic (spoken Arabic) greeting commonly used in countries like UAE, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.
When to use: Casual, friendly conversations.
10. Hayāk Allah - (حَيَّاكَ اللَّه)
Meaning: May God greet you / Welcome
This greeting is popular in Gulf countries and conveys respect and warmth.
Response: Allah yḥayyīk
When to use: Traditional or cultural settings, especially in the Gulf.
Why Learning Arabic Greetings Matters?
Learning different ways of saying hello in Arabic can help you:
- Establish better relationships
- Display cultural respect
- Speak more fluently and confidently
- Communicate effectively in formal and informal settings
Arabic greetings are more than just one word; they are a way of establishing a connection and showing politeness.
Whether you are a beginner or you are learning Arabic for professional needs, learning these 10 Arabic Greetings will be a great starting point for you. By practicing these Arabic Greetings in your daily conversations, you will soon realize the warm response you receive from people.
If you are interested in learning Spoken Arabic with Fun or professional Arabic communication, you can enroll in a course that will help you learn Arabic quickly.
Start with the basic word “hello,” and let the conversation begin!
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