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.

When you can use the language and see your progress on the streets and 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 conversationalist 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 Saifi's unique curriculum called Urban Arabic, one of the few complete and systematic classroom curriculums for the Arabic used everyday.

Class Schedule:

Arabic classes are organized in 5-week terms throughout the year.  All levels of Urban Arabic and some MSA and advanced courses are offered during every term.

• The beginners class schedule is available 4-5 months in advance.
• The non-beginners class schedule is posted 3-4 weeks before the start of each term.

Registration:

• Beginners: Register online 4-5 months in advance. These classes are for absolute beginners in Arabic only.
• Non-beginners: Registration begins when the non-beginners class schedule is posted 3-4 weeks before each term.  All new non-beginner students must take an evaluation before registering.
• Evaluations to determine your level according to the Saifi Proficiency Chart can be done any day 12-4pm.  We prefer to do this in person but it is possible on the phone.  No need for an appointment.

Fees and Policy

• Student fees are between $270-$675 per term depending on how intensive your classes are.
• The Saifi student policy is strictly enforced.  Please read prior to signing up for any class.

Accommodation

• On campus student housing is available through Saifi Urban Gardens at affordable rates ($360-$800 per person per month including breakfast).
• If you are looking for a hotel or apartment check our FAQ section on accomodation in Beirut.
• Note: Saifi does not arrange family home-stays for students.

Saifi Background, location & hours:

• Saifi Institute was founded in January 2008 by Rana Dirani.  Saifi teachers have over 30 years combined teaching experience specializing in the Lebanese Dialect.
• Located in Saifi Urban Gardens, Pasteur St. in the Gemayze district of Beirut. Saifi is central, safe and easy to get to.
• Our hours are: 8am-8pm, Monday-Friday