Gateway to Arabic
Your Journey to Arabic Mastery & Saudi Cultural Readiness
Gateway to Arabic is a flagship initiative by the Institute for Language Advancement (IfLA), IIUM, developed in collaboration with Iqraa Arabia, Umm Al-Qura University.
Whether you are seeking rigorous academic language progression or looking to build practical communication confidence for travel, Umrah, or work in Saudi Arabia, our dual pathways are tailored to guide you every step of the way.
Choose Your Learning Pathway
We offer two distinct, complementary tracks to match your individual learning goals and lifestyle.
A formal, structured academic pathway designed to build progressive Arabic language proficiency. It pairs comprehensive pre-departure academic training in Malaysia with deep, high-level linguistic study in Makkah.
Suitable for:
- Serious language learners and academic students.
- Professionals seeking formal language certifications.
- Individuals looking to achieve deep, long-term fluency and academic competency.
Academic & Level-Based
- Local Phase: Formal classes at IfLA, IIUM (Levels 1–3).
- Immersion Phase: Intensive academic classes, cultural interactions, and visits at Umm Al-Qura University.
- Post-Immersion: Continuous learning at IfLA upon return.
Flexible / Cohort-Based
- Local: At least 1 assigned level with IfLA before travel.
- Makkah Immersion: 2 weeks, 1 month, or 2+ months.
| Level | Contact Hours | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|---|
|
A1-1 |
40 hours + 20 hours (online) |
RM 900 |
|
A1-2 |
40 hours + 20 hours (online) |
RM 900 |
|
A2-1 |
40 hours + 20 hours (online) |
RM 900 |
|
A2-2 |
Makkah Immersion (1 month) |
USD 1,100 |
|
B1-1 |
40 hours + 20 hours (online) |
RM 900 |
|
B1-2 |
40 hours + 20 hours (online) |
RM 900 |
|
B2-1 |
40 hours + 20 hours (online) |
RM 900 |
|
B2-2 |
Makkah Immersion (1 month) |
USD 1,100 |
|
Enrolment Fee |
Per Makkah Immersion Tuition |
USD 15 |
A practical, non-academic preparatory and exposure programme focused on cultural adaptation, environmental familiarity, and basic survival communication.
Suitable for:
- Umrah and Hajj pilgrims.
- First-time travelers and tourists to Saudi Arabia.
- Busy corporate professionals or families seeking general survival navigation skills and cultural confidence.
Non-Level & Experiential
- Focused on practical, real-life situational simulations, travel logistics, Saudi social etiquette, and conversational confidence.
- Does not count toward formal academic level advancement.
Fixed Term
- 10 weeks total.
- 2 instructional hours per week (Total of 20 instructional hours).
- Makkah Immersion: 2 weeks, 1 month, or 2+ months.
A practical, non-level-based preparatory experience for immediate travel, business, or pilgrimage.
- Format: 10-week local module (2 hours per week).
- Contact Hours: 20 instructional contact hours.
- Local Tuition: RM 450.
- Immersion Tuition: USD 1,100
- Global Pathway Enrollment Fee: USD 15.
- Total Pathway Fees: RM 450 (Local Tuition) + USD 1,100 (Immersion Tuition) + USD 15 (Pathway Enrollment).
Entry Requirement
Programme Calendar
The Gateway to Arabic programme is open to the public and welcomes learners from diverse educational backgrounds.
No prior formal qualification in Arabic is required for entry at the elementary level.
Prospective participants are required to sit for a placement test prior to commencement. This ensures appropriate level placement and allows qualified candidates to skip levels based on demonstrated proficiency.
Admission decisions are made to support effective learning progression and academic readiness.
2026 Intake Schedule
- Term 1: 12 September 2026 – 14 November 2026
Term 2: To be confirmed
Detailed class schedules will be announced prior to each term, subject to academic planning and enrolment numbers.