Saifi Institute specializes in teaching the Lebanese Arabic Dialect, and Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) to non-native speakers working, studying, visiting or just enjoying Beirut, Lebanon.

At Saifi Institute our motto is "learn Arabic from the ground up".  We specialize in teaching you the Arabic you will use everyday while living in the Arab world.  Because when you can use the language and see your progress on the streets in your everyday life, you will learn faster and remember what you've learned.

Arabic courses are offered for the novice learning to catch a taxi, and the fast talker who wants to learn how to read the newspaper.  In addition to spending time in the classroom with students, all teachers at Saifi are involved in developing the unique Saifi curriculum called Urban Arabic.

Class Schedule:

Click here for the current class schedule.  Arabic classes are organized in eight five-week-terms every year and class schedules are posted 2-3 weeks before each term.  Registration for each term takes place after the term schedule is posted - usually around two weeks before each term.  All students must come to Saifi in order to register, we do not currently accept online registration.

Saifi also teaches intensive Arabic courses for a twice yearly student exchange program - Beirut Exchange - in cooperation with mideastwire.com.

Fees:

Classes cost between $240-$480 per term depending on the class schedule and on how intensive your classes are. Check here for more about student fees.

Saifi Background, location & hours:

Saifi Institute was founded in January 2008 by Rana Dirani.  Saifi teachers have over 12 years teaching experience, specializing in the Lebanese Dialect.

Located just steps from Martyr's Square, at the center of Beirut, and Gemayze, Saifi is central, safe and easy to get to. 

Our hours are (open 8am-8pm, Monday-Friday & Saturday by appointment).  If you are new fill out this online application and start learning! 

Saifi does not offer housing, but can help you find a place to stay.

Courses

Course pace

Urban Arabic (all levels are offered every term): Beginner (survival needs), level 1-2 Intermediate (social needs), level 3-4 Intermediate-high (working-studying needs) level 5-6 Special topics, Arabic culture, movies, music, level 4-8 Modern Standard Arabic (availability depends on demand): All levels are offered, based on the Al-Kitab curriculum. Advanced courses in Arabic Media are often available.

Regular:  6 hours per week, 1/2 level every term Intensive: 12 hours per week, 1 level every term