Sharjah

🇬🇧

English Language

Sections

1. Prevalence of English in Sharjah

  • Daily Life: English is widely spoken and understood in Sharjah, especially in urban areas, tourist spots, shopping malls, restaurants, and public services. It serves as a lingua franca for the diverse expatriate population, which includes people from South Asia, the Philippines, Europe, and other parts of the world.
  • Government Services: While Arabic is the primary language for official documents and government communication, most government offices, customer service centers, and public institutions provide services in English. Forms, websites, and signage are often bilingual (Arabic and English).
  • Tourism and Hospitality: English is the primary language used in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers are generally proficient in English.

2. English in Education

  • Schools: English is the medium of instruction in most private schools in Sharjah, which cater to expatriate communities. These schools follow various international curricula, such as British, American, Indian (CBSE/ICSE), and International Baccalaureate (IB). Arabic is taught as a mandatory subject, but English dominates other subjects.
  • Higher Education: Sharjah is home to several universities and colleges, such as the American University of Sharjah (AUS) and the University of Sharjah, where English is the primary language of instruction. These institutions attract students from around the world.
  • Language Proficiency Requirements: For admission to higher education institutions, students are often required to demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

3. English in Business Settings

  • Corporate Communication: English is the dominant language in business and professional environments. Most companies, especially those in the private sector, use English for meetings, emails, contracts, and other forms of communication.
  • Job Market: Proficiency in English is a key requirement for most jobs in Sharjah, particularly in multinational companies, tourism, and customer service roles. Knowledge of Arabic is an advantage but not always mandatory.

4. Learning or Improving English in Sharjah

If you are looking to learn or improve your English skills in Sharjah, there are several options available:

Language Institutes

  • Popular Institutes: There are many language centers in Sharjah offering English courses for various levels, from beginner to advanced. Some well-known institutes include:
    • Berlitz Language Center
    • British Council (Dubai and Abu Dhabi branches are nearby)
    • Eton Institute
    • Excellence Training Centre
  • Course Types: Institutes offer general English, business English, IELTS/TOEFL preparation, and conversational English courses.
  • Costs: Fees vary depending on the institute, course type, and duration. On average, a short-term course (4–6 weeks) may cost AED 1,500–3,000. IELTS preparation courses may cost AED 2,000–4,000.

Online Learning

  • Many residents opt for online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Duolingo to learn English at their own pace. These platforms are often more affordable, with some offering free courses.

Community Classes

  • Some community centers and cultural organizations in Sharjah offer affordable or free English classes, especially for low-income residents. Check with local mosques, churches, or expatriate associations for such opportunities.

Private Tutors

  • Hiring a private English tutor is another option. Rates typically range from AED 100–300 per hour, depending on the tutor’s qualifications and experience.

Procedures for Enrollment

  • To enroll in a language course, you will typically need to:
    1. Choose an institute and course.
    2. Take a placement test (if required) to determine your proficiency level.
    3. Submit identification documents (passport copy, visa copy, Emirates ID).
    4. Pay the course fees.

5. Cultural Considerations for Using English in Sharjah

  • Respect for Arabic: While English is widely used, it is important to show respect for the Arabic language and culture. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases (e.g., greetings) is appreciated and can help build rapport with locals.
  • Politeness and Tone: Emirati culture values politeness and respectful communication. When speaking English, avoid using overly casual or slang terms, especially in formal or professional settings.
  • Dress Code and Behavior: While speaking English, be mindful of Sharjah’s conservative culture. Dress modestly and avoid discussing sensitive topics like religion or politics unless you are in a trusted setting.
  • Multicultural Interactions: Since Sharjah is home to people from diverse backgrounds, you may encounter varying accents and levels of English proficiency. Be patient and clear in your communication.

6. Tips for English Learners in Sharjah

  • Practice Daily: Use English in your daily interactions, such as shopping, dining, or commuting.
  • Join Language Exchange Groups: Look for language exchange meetups or online groups where you can practice English with native speakers or other learners.
  • Read and Watch Media: Read English newspapers (e.g., The National or Gulf News) and watch English TV shows or movies with subtitles to improve your vocabulary and comprehension.
  • Take Advantage of Libraries: Sharjah has excellent public libraries, such as the Sharjah Public Library, where you can access English books, magazines, and learning resources.

7. Conclusion

English is an essential and widely used language in Sharjah, making it easy for expatriates and visitors to navigate the city. Whether you are a beginner or looking to improve your proficiency, there are numerous resources and opportunities available. By understanding the cultural context and making an effort to learn, you can effectively use English to integrate into Sharjah’s vibrant and multicultural community.

If you need further assistance or specific recommendations, feel free to ask!