How to type in Arabic
Arabic is written right-to-left and uses an entirely different script. Letters connect to form words.
🇸🇦 Arabic script — العربية
This is what arabic script looks like — a completely different alphabet. You need a dedicated keyboard.
Add a Arabic keyboard on Android
Open keyboard settings
While typing, long-press the 🌐 (globe) icon or the spacebar on Gboard. Or go to:
Settings → System → Languages & input → On-screen keyboardOpen Gboard → Languages
Tap Gboard (or your active keyboard), then Languages.
Add language
Tap Add keyboard, search for العربية. Tap Done.
Switch keyboards
While typing, tap the 🌐 (globe) icon to switch between keyboards.
Add a Arabic keyboard on iPhone / iPad
Open Settings
Go to the Settings app on your home screen.
Settings → General → KeyboardGo to Keyboards
Tap Keyboards (you'll see a list of active keyboards at the top).
Add a new keyboard
Tap Add New Keyboard..., search for Arabic, and tap to add.
Switch keyboards
While typing, tap the 🌐 (globe) icon in the bottom-left corner to switch languages.
Add a Arabic keyboard on Windows
Open language settings
Press Win + I to open Settings, or search for Language settings in the Start menu.
Settings → Time & Language → Language & regionAdd a language
Click Add a language, search for العربية, click Next, then Install.
Switch keyboards
Use Win + Space or click the language indicator in the taskbar to switch.
Add a Arabic keyboard on macOS
Open System Settings
Click the (Apple) menu in the top-left corner and choose System Settings.
→ System Settings → KeyboardAdd an input source
Go to Input Sources, click Edit... or +, search for العربية, and add it.
Show in menu bar
Make sure Show Input menu in menu bar is enabled.
Switch keyboards
Use Ctrl + Space or click the input source indicator in the menu bar.
All set? Test your keyboard!
Go back to learning and try typing: مرحبا، شكرا، مع السلامة
Back to learning →