Saifi Immersive Arabic
Summer Program
Saifi Immersive Arabic Summer Program
- 22 June – 27 July 2026
- Beirut, Lebanon
Immerse, Speak, Connect – Arabic Awaits!
Master Arabic in Five Weeks!
Join our Immersive summer program and achieve fluency faster than you thought possible. With 6 hours of daily instruction and a fully immersive environment, you'll make remarkable progress in just 5 weeks.
What is SIASP?
SIASP is an intensive Arabic program designed for highly motivated learners who want to make rapid progress in Levantine and Formal Arabic.
An Intensive Program
Six hours of daily classes, five days a week, with an additional 2–3 hours of homework each day for maximum progress.
For Dedicated Learners
Ideal for highly motivated students committed to rigorous study. Small classes of maximum 15 participants.
Real Results
Achieve B1 level (CEFR) and Intermediate-mid (ACTFL) proficiency. Conquer two levels in just 5 weeks.
Urban Arabic: Beginner-Elementary
Saifi Institute offers a unique program in Levantine Arabic, spoken in Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Jordan. This dialect is essential for communication and research in the region. Saifi is the only Arabic school in the Middle East with a full curriculum in Levantine Arabic using Arabic script.
No prior Arabic knowledge needed.
Reach Intermediate Level (B1) in 5 weeks.
The program emphasizes
Over five weeks, students will progress to an intermediate level, covering beginner and elementary stages.
Conversational skills
Listening comprehension
Presentations
Cultural immersion
Course Materials & Learning Path
Urban Arabic Course Materials:
Materials covered in the Beginner – Elementary Level
- Urban Arabic Book 1: Beginners’ guide to the Alphabet (Saifi textbook).
- Urban Arabic Book 2: The complete beginners’ level (Saifi textbook).
- Urban Arabic Book 3: The complete elementary level (Saifi textbook).
- Urban Arabic: Conversation Classes (Beginner & Elementary).
- Urban Arabic: Abu Jameel (daily life stories).
Materials covered in the Elementary- Intermediate Level
- Urban Arabic Book 3: The complete elementary level (Saifi textbook).
- Urban Arabic Book4: The complete Intermediate Level (Saifi Textbook)
- Urban Arabic: Conversation Classes (Elementary-Intermediate).
- Urban Arabic: Abu Jameel (daily life stories).
Materials covered in the Beginner – Elementary Formal Arabic Level
- Alkitaab fee Ta3allum al Arbiyyeh Book 1 First version
Eligible students
- Absolute beginners or those with minimal Arabic knowledge.
- Anyone eager to speak and understand Levantine Arabic.
- Those interested in Middle Eastern culture, media, and daily life.
- Researchers or professionals require Arabic proficiency.
🎓 Certification
Upon completion, you’ll receive an official certificate with:
- Your achieved CEFR/ACTFL level
- Total course hours (150)
- Course dates and final grade
*Complete program = CEFR B1 / ACTFL Intermediate-Mid
⭐ Program Highlights
All students participate in our engaging cultural activities
Weekly Lebanese film nights
Enjoy Lebanese cinema while practicing your listening comprehension and cultural understanding.
Cooking & Food Decoration
Learn to prepare traditional Lebanese dishes while practicing food-related vocabulary.
Field Trips Across Lebanon
Experience Lebanon's diverse regions, historical sites, and natural beauty.
Lectures on Lebanese Society
Gain insights into Lebanese culture, politics, and social dynamics from expert speakers.
🕒 Course Schedule
Morning Class
09:00 – 12:00
Lunch
12:00 – 13:00
Afternoon Class
13:00 – 16:00
Students will also be expected to complete
between 2 -3 hours of homework every day.
Fees & What's Included
Total Fee: $1,700 USD
All-inclusive 5-week immersive program
What's Included
150 hours of tuition
All required books for the course.
Extra-curricular activities and field trips.
Free Wi-Fi in the school.
Not Included
Travel to and from Lebanon.
Accommodation in Lebanon.
Additional learning resources.
Health Insurance (recommended)
📝 How to Apply
1. Complete the application form
2. Send the application & documents to [email protected].
3. Secure your place by paying the full fee.
4. For inquiries, email [email protected].
Accreditation And Certification
- All students successfully completing the course are entitled to a certificate for each level they complete. Certificates of completion indicate the proficiency level, grade, number of hours, and date of course completion. Saifi Institute provides information for Urban Arabic on the level which corresponds to CEFR and ACTFL proficiency levels.
- We also provide each student with a letter of recommendation that provides more detail on their performance in class, their grades, and their commitment to learning Arabic during their time with Saifi.
- You will achieve B1 level according to the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) and Intermediate-mid level according to the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) proficiency chart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Program Overview
The Saifi Immersive Arabic Summer Program (SIASP) is a fully immersive Arabic program designed for highly motivated learners who want to accelerate their Arabic proficiency in a short period of time.
- Duration: 5 weeks
- Dates: June 22 – July 27, 2026
- Total Tuition Hours: 150 hours
- Schedule:
9:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 16:00
- Homework: 2–3 hours daily
- Class Size: Maximum 10–15 students
This is an immersive (not intensive) program and requires full academic commitment.
Levels & Tracks
SIASP offers two main tracks:
A. Urban Arabic (Levantine Dialect)
- Beginner → Elementary
- No prior knowledge required
- The Arabic alphabet is taught during the program
- Elementary → Intermediate
- Evaluation required
- Students must already read and write Arabic
Saifi offers the only full curriculum in the Middle East teaching Levantine Arabic entirely in Arabic script.
B. Formal Arabic (MSA)
- Beginner → Elementary
- Students must already know how to read and write the Arabic alphabet
Learning Outcomes & Certification
Upon successful completion of the Beginner → Elementary track, students achieve:
- CEFR: B1 (Intermediate)
- ACTFL: Intermediate-Mid
Students complete:
- Midterm exam
- Final exam
To receive a certificate, both exams must be passed.
Certificates include:
- Level completed
- Grade
- 150 instructional hours
- Completion date
Letters of recommendation are available upon request.
Materials Included
Urban Arabic – Beginner → Elementary
- Urban Arabic Book 1 (Alphabet)
- Urban Arabic Book 2 (Beginner Level)
- Urban Arabic Book 3 (Elementary Level)
- Conversation Classes
- Abu Jameel (Daily Life Stories)
Urban Arabic – Elementary → Intermediate
- Urban Arabic Book 3
- Urban Arabic Book 4 (Intermediate Level)
- Conversation Classes
- Abu Jameel
Formal Arabic
- Al-Kitaab fii Taʿallum al-ʿArabiyya Book 1 (First Edition)
All required books are included in tuition.
either online or in person, and complete the payment of the course tuition fees. Once these steps are done, you’re all set to join us.
Cultural & Immersive Activities (Included)
All SIASP students participate in:
- Weekly Lebanese film nights
- Field trips across Lebanon
- Cooking classes
- Guest lectures on Lebanese society and politics
- Conversation meetups and guided neighborhood walks
These activities are included in the tuition fee.
Fees
Total Tuition: $1700 USD
The fee includes:
- 150 tuition hours
- All required books
- Cultural activities and field trips
- Free Wi-Fi
Not included:
- Travel to and from Lebanon
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
- Personal expenses
Registration, Payment & Withdrawal
- Application deadline: June 15, 2026
- Full tuition payment due: June 15, 2026
- Limited seats available (maximum 10–15 students per class)
- SIASP is offered once per year
All students sign a commitment declaration upon registration.
If a student withdraws:
- No refunds
- No credit transfers
- No certificate issued
Health Insurance
Health insurance covering the entire duration of the program is recommended.
Saifi does not provide health insurance.
Accommodation & Living in Beirut
Accommodation is not included in the tuition fee.
Students may consider:
- Shared apartments
- Airbnb
- Hostels
- Hamra Urban Gardens (HUG): a popular student-friendly residence option in Beirut, Abdel Baki St. – right turn off Hamra main street. Email: hello@hamragardens.com
Estimated monthly expenses:
- Shared apartment: $500+
- Food & living costs: $500+
Early booking is strongly recommended.
Commitment & Academic Expectations
SIASP is academically demanding. Students are expected to:
- Attend all classes
- Complete daily homework
- Actively participate in activities
- Respect academic policies
This program is designed for serious learners ready for a fast-paced academic experience.
What makes SIASP different from intensive courses?
SIASP is immersive, offering 6 hours per day (150 hours total) and allowing students to complete TWO levels in five weeks, in addition to cultural activities. Intensive courses offer 3 hours daily (75 hours) and complete ONE level.
Can I work while attending SIASP?
Due to the program’s intensity (6 hours daily plus homework and activities), working is not recommended unless commitments are minimal.
What happens if I miss classes?
Attendance is mandatory. Excessive absences may affect certification eligibility. Medical absences require documentation.
Can I withdraw if the program is too demanding?
Yes, but no refunds, no credit transfers, and no certificate will be issued.
Is it safe to study in Beirut?
Saifi is located in a central area of Beirut. Student safety is a priority, and guidance on transportation and daily logistics is provided.
Do I need a visa?
Most nationalities receive a tourist visa upon arrival. Students must verify visa requirements before traveling.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
No strict minimum. Students 16 years and older are welcome, as long as they are committed to the full SIASP program.
Do you offer airport pickup?
Trusted taxi services can be recommended upon request.
What teaching methodology does Saifi use?
Saifi follows a structured communicative approach integrating speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Urban Arabic is taught in Arabic script with systematic grammar progression.
Will I meet other international students?
Yes. SIASP attracts students from around the world, creating a diverse and engaging environment.
Does Saifi assist with local logistics?
Yes. Students receive guidance regarding SIM cards, transportation, trusted services, and general orientation upon arrival.
Is there a minimum requirement to join SIASP?
No. There is no minimum prior knowledge or experience required. As long as you are committed to attending the classes and completing the 150 program hours, you can join SIASP. Complete beginners are welcome.
What is an immersive Arabic course?
The immersive Arabic course is an intensive program designed for dedicated learners. It includes six hours of daily classroom instruction, five days a week, complemented by an additional two to three hours of homework each day. Enrolment is recommended only for individuals who are highly committed. By registering for SIASP, you acknowledge and commit to the demanding five-week study schedule. If this level of intensity seems overwhelming, consider our intensive courses as an alternative. These courses offer three hours of classroom time and approximately two hours of homework daily, which may be more manageable.
If I sign up for SIASP, will I be able to stop halfway if it’s too much?
If you enroll in SIASP and find the workload overwhelming, you have the option to withdraw at any point. However, please note that refunds or credit transfers will not be available. Upon registration, all SIASP students are required to sign a commitment declaration, emphasizing the importance of dedication to the program. Additionally, if you decide to withdraw, you will not receive a certificate of completion.
I am not a university student; do I qualify for SIASP
Absolutely! One of the key benefits of our summer program is its inclusivity—it’s open to everyone, not just university students. We’ve simplified the registration process to ensure it is straightforward and stress-free. To secure your spot in the course, simply submit your application
either online or in person, and complete the payment of the course tuition fees. Once these steps are done, you’re all set to join us.
I am already a student at Saifi, am I eligible to apply for SIASP?
Yes! There are no restrictions on who can apply. The primary goal of this program is to accelerate the learning process and provide everyone with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Arabic, achieving optimal results in a short period of time. Additionally, the program includes extra-curricular activities and courses.
either online or in person, and complete the payment of the course tuition fees. Once these steps are done, you’re all set to join us.
I am a complete beginner; do I need to know the Arabic alphabet?
If you’re a complete beginner, there’s no need to worry about prior knowledge of the alphabet, as learning the alphabet will be part of the course. However, if you already know the alphabet but have limited knowledge beyond that, an evaluation test will be required to assess your current level.
What is the difference between Saifi’s intensive courses and SIASP?
The immersive summer program is meticulously designed to expedite your Arabic proficiency, empowering you to conquer TWO levels in just 5 weeks, instead of the usual 10-week timeframe. This offer is currently available once a year. Beyond the intensive six hours of daily Arabic instruction, the program offers a rich array of additional activities. These encompass weekly Lebanese film nights, captivating storytelling sessions, field trips to explore local culture, engaging cooking classes, as well as enlightening talks by academics shedding light on different facets of Lebanese politics and society.
Do the fees include extracurricular activities and field trips?
Yes. All the extracurricular activities and field trips are included in the fees. If you require more information about the program, you can email us, and we will be more than happy to send you all details about the program.
Will I need to do an evaluation before being admitted to the program?
This year, we are offering a program for complete beginners. An assessment is not required as the course is specifically designed for this level, enabling participants to complete both beginner
and elementary levels. If your proficiency is higher, an intensive course option is available. Additionally, if you are interested in extracurricular activities, we can arrange something similar for you.
When do I have to pay to ensure my place on the course?
Because this program is offered once per year, there is a high demand on joining it (10 students per class). It is advised upon acceptance into the course, it’s imperative to promptly settle the course tuition fees to secure your spot. The final payment for all tuition fees must be made by Friday, June 20, 2025. Failure to complete payment by this date may result in your place being reassigned to another participant.
Are Saifi’s regular classes still running during the summer program?
Yes, during the summer program, Saifi’s other courses will continue to run as usual. We offer various levels each term, ranging from complete beginners to experts, in both regular and intensive formats.
How many people will there be in each class?
There will be a maximum of 10 participants in each class.
I already work in Beirut; can I attend the program part-time? I want to work at the same time as attending this program, is this possible?
This program is highly immersive, requiring six hours of tuition five days a week, along with an additional 2-3 hours of homework per day, including weekends. Attempting to balance work alongside the program is not advisable if you aim to successfully complete the course. Additionally, students who miss classes without a medical reason may risk their eligibility to receive a certificate upon course completion.
Is it feasible to work while participating in this program?
This program is highly immersive, requiring six hours of class time per day, five days a week, in addition to mandatory extracurricular activities that complement the courses to achieve
the program’s objectives. Additionally, 2-3 hours of homework per day are required. Attempting to balance work alongside the program is not advisable if you aim to successfully complete the course unless the work commitment is very minimal.
Do you offer university credit for this course?
It’s not uncommon for students to receive university credit for completed classes at Saifi. However, each university has its own unique requirements and standards. Saifi’s class levels (Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate, etc.) align with the American (ACTFL) and European (CEFR) language proficiency criteria, facilitating the process for students to potentially obtain credits. If you’re interested in receiving credit for your language studies, we suggest printing out our course description and syllabus and having a discussion with the language department at your university or you can put us in contact with them to provide them with more information.
Will I receive a transcript/accreditation?
Upon successfully completing the course, all students are eligible to receive a certificate for each level they accomplish. These certificates of completion specify the proficiency level attained, the grade achieved, the number of instructional hours completed, and the date of course culmination. Saifi Institute ensures that information on each language level corresponds to CEFR and ACTFL proficiency standards.
Additionally, students can request a letter of recommendation from Saifi Institute, offering further insights into their performance in class, their grades, and their dedication to Arabic language learning during their tenure at Saifi.
When should I apply for SIASP?
You should submit your application before June 20, 2025. To secure your spot, we recommend applying and making payment as soon as possible. Spaces are limited, and early application and payment are advised to guarantee enrollment. Registration typically opens around the end of April.
Do you offer accommodation?
Unfortunately, the program does not provide accommodation. However, we highly recommend Hamra Urban Gardens, a great facility offering excellent amenities such as a rooftop gym and authentic Lebanese cuisine “Em Nazih”. We suggest booking early, especially during the bustling summer months. For comprehensive details, please visit: www.hamragardens.com
What is the cost of living in Beirut?
Living expenses vary based on individual lifestyle choices. Renting a room in a shared apartment typically costs around $500 or more per month. Living costs, including expenses for food and beverages, usually amount to $500 or more per month, depending on preferences for dining out and socializing. Generally, opting for shared taxis and buses and preparing meals at home or opting for takeout can help keep food and travel expenses low. However, dining at restaurants and bars tends to be more expensive, with nightclubs being the costliest option.
Will I need a visa?
Many nationalities have the option to obtain a complimentary one-month tourist visa upon arrival at Beirut International Airport. This visa remains valid for three months and does not necessitate renewal. However, it is crucial to verify Lebanon’s visa requirements prior to traveling. For further information on this matter, please visit the General Security website: https://www.general-security.gov.lb/en
Why do I need to pay for health insurance?
Lebanon presently lacks a free healthcare system, and Saifi Institute cannot assume responsibility for your healthcare expenses during your stay in Lebanon. Upon arrival at the institute, you will be required to present proof of a health insurance policy that provides coverage for the entire duration of the program.
Does Saifi have a health insurance program I can purchase?
Unfortunately, no, students must arrange their health insurance with a provider in their home country. It is essential to bring evidence of your policy with you when you attend the course. Students cannot begin the program without providing proof of health insurance.
How can we change the dollar to Lebanese currency?
In Lebanon, there are numerous currency exchange locations available such as OMT/ Western Union etc.., whether you reside in Hamra, Gemayzeh, or any other area in Beirut. These exchange places provide services for converting currencies. Nowadays, paying in dollars is more convenient, as you can request the bill in dollars directly without the need to exchange money anymore.
Does Saifi have a list of recommended trusted sources, such as taxi drivers, travel agencies, hotels, gyms, trainers, cafeterias, and housing options?
Yes, we can certainly assist with that. Saifi has numerous contacts with trusted individuals and companies that are reliable and deliver professional work. You can request the necessary contacts directly through our WhatsApp number or in person, and we would be glad to help you.
Does Saifi have a social media page or WhatsApp group that we could join and engage with other fellow students?
Yes, Saifi Institute maintains social media pages to keep our students informed about the latest news, announcements, and new courses. We also post mini lessons on various topics based on students’ requests. You can follow us on:
– Instagram: @saifiarabic
– Facebook: Saifi Institute for Arabic Language
– YouTube: Saifi Institute for Arabic Language
– LinkedIn: Saifi Institute for Arabic Language
– WhatsApp: Text 00961 81 773633 to be added to our group.
