Arabic Summer School in Makkah
Al-Salam Institute is pleased to present its four-week Arabic Summer School in Makkah, combining structured online learning with in-person study in the sacred city.
The programme begins with two weeks of live online teaching, followed by over two weeks of in-person study in Makkah. Students will have the opportunity to perform Umrah and benefit from the teaching and companionship of Shaykh Akram Nadwi throughout.
Designed to develop spoken Arabic, known as fusha or Classical Arabic, the course places strong emphasis on immersion and conversational practice. Students can expect meaningful progress in speaking and listening, alongside steady development in reading and writing. Fifteen days studying Arabic in Makkah provide a unique environment in which the language is practised and reinforced both inside and beyond the classroom.
This residential Classical Arabic course prioritises in-person learning and meaningful companionship over luxury. It is offered across three levels, making it suitable for beginners as well as those seeking to advance their Arabic proficiency.
Open to male and female students. Places are limited.
What’s included in the Price
Online Phase (Weeks 1 and 2)
- Two weeks of live online teaching delivered on weekday evenings and one weekend
- Approximately 15-20 hours of tuition
In-Person Phase – Makkah (Weeks 3 and 4)
- A minimum of four hours of teaching daily across all three levels
- Regular Q&A and teaching sessions with Shaykh Akram Nadwi
- Organised excursions
Course Materials
- All course materials will be provided in digital format.
Meals
- Full board, with breakfast, lunch and dinner provided throughout the programme.
Accommodation
Students will stay at a comfortable hotel in the Batha Quraish area.
Accommodation is offered on a twin-share basis. Single-room upgrades may be requested, subject to availability.
Shuttle Service to the Haram
- A 24-hour shuttle service is available between the hotel and the Haram (approx. 25 min)
What Is Not Included
- Visa costs
- International flights
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Travel to Madinah, optional group travel at the end of the programme
Dates and Prices
Online Phase: 27 July to 5 August 2026
In-Person Phase – Makkah: 8 August to 23 August 2026
Early Bird Fees: £1550
Early Bird Discount Ends: 1 April 2026
During the Early Bird period, students may choose to pay either in full (£1550) or in three instalments.
Early Bird Instalments
£550 due by 1 April 2026
Second instalment due by 1 May 2026
- Final instalment due by 1 June 2026
Standard Fees: £1800
Registrations submitted after 1 April 2026 will be charged the standard fee of £1,800. Students may choose to pay either in full (£1800) or in two instalments.
Standard Instalment Plan
Two instalments of £900
Final instalment must be received by 1 July 2026
Online-Only Option (Weeks 1 and 2)
Students who are unable to attend the in-person phase in Makkah may enrol in the two-week online option, covering the teaching delivered during the first phase of the programme.
All payments are non-refundable
Teaching
Course Description
The programme begins with two weeks of online teaching followed by over two weeks of in-person classes in Makkah, including classes with Shaykh Akram Nadwi. It is designed to enhance spoken Arabic (fusha) skills and offers an immersive environment. The programme comprises three levels tailored to students’ proficiency in Arabic. This ensures accessibility for beginners embarking on their Arabic journey, as well as those aiming to advance their language skills (see tabs above for further details). The prerequisites for each level of study can be found in the application form, accessible via the ‘Apply Now’ tab on this page.
Online Phase (Weeks 1 and 2)
Students will study 15-20 hours online as part of the Arabic Summer School. These classes will focus on expanding the students’ speaking skills, listening skills and vocabulary. These will take place on weekday evenings and on the weekend in order to prepare students for their studies in Makkah.
Dates: 27 July – 5 August 2026
Online-Only Option
Students who are unable to attend the in-person component in Makkah may enrol in the two-week online-only option. While the full four-week programme is recommended for the complete experience, this option enables students to benefit from the teaching delivered during the first two weeks.
In-Person Phase – Makkah (Weeks 3 and 4)
Classes will primarily focus on strengthening students’ speaking and listening skills. Dialogue practice, comprehension and vocabulary acquisition will be key to each student’s progress. Daily classes will be held five days a week, alongside educational tours and extracurricular activities for students to continue practising their Arabic language skills.
Dates: 8 August -23 August 2026
Objectives:
By the end of the four-week Arabic summer school, students are expected to have achieved the following objectives:
- To develop speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.
- Appreciation to basic conversational grammar and utilise essential vocabulary.
- To review and apply lessons and objectives already achieved in their Arabic studies.
- To have a good basis for progression to higher levels and an appreciation of Classical Arabic (fusha).
- To develop confidence to have simple conversational exchanges in an Arabic speaking environment
Students will engage in interactive dialogue recreation within specific contexts suitable for a beginner-level student, focusing on generating new conversations rather than mere reading.
Unit 2: Listening Skills
Students will develop their Arabic listening skills through exposure to various resources, aiming to comprehend and respond effectively to basic Arabic presentations.
Unit 3: Kinaesthetic learning
Using a variety of techniques and interactions students will be scaffolded to memorise and apply new vocabulary words
Assessments
Every lesson includes a variety of formative assessments appropriate to the module. Students will receive daily in-class feedback from the instructors. They can also expect a summative assessment at the end of the summer school.
By the end of the four-week Arabic summer school, students are expected to have achieved the following objectives:
- To develop confidence in expressing themselves in Arabic
- To carry themselves comfortably in everyday Arabic conversations with the usage of common phrases and idioms.
- To form properly constructed sentences
- To comprehend and respond appropriately upon listening to statements expressed in Arabic.
- To improve listening and speaking abilities through interactive exercises and role-plays.
- To review and apply lessons and objectives already achieved in their Arabic studies.
Students will engage in interactive dialogue recreation within specific contexts suitable for an intermediate-level student, focusing on generating new conversations rather than mere reading.
Unit 2: Listening Skills
Students will develop their Arabic listening skills through exposure to various resources, aiming to comprehend and respond effectively to Arabic presentations.
Unit 3: Groupwork
Students will work in small groups to create and present short presentations, fostering confidence and proficiency in Arabic conversation.
In addition to group presentations, students will deliver individual presentations to the class, enhancing language skills, clarity in expression, and confidence in communication. They have the freedom to choose their presentation topics, providing an opportunity to share personal knowledge and experiences.
Assessments
Every lesson includes a variety of formative assessments appropriate to the module. Students will receive daily in-class feedback from the instructors. They can also expect a summative assessment at the end of the summer school.
By the end of the four-week Arabic summer school, students are expected to have achieved the following objectives:
- To enhance fluency and advanced speaking abilities, including but not limited to debates, speech writing (khutba) and formal speaking.
- To speak with grammatical accuracy and utilise rhetorical expression (balagha).
- To develop confidence in expressing ideas in Arabic in a wide variety of situations
- To maintain a detailed conversation on a wide range of topics and Islamic subjects.
- To understand Friday sermons and Islamic lectures on a variety of topics.
Students will work in small groups to create and present short presentations, fostering confidence and proficiency in advanced Arabic conversation.
Unit 2: Presentations
In addition to group presentations, students will deliver individual presentations to the class, enhancing language skills, clarity in expression, and confidence in communication. They have the freedom to choose their presentation topics, providing an opportunity to share personal knowledge and experiences.
Unit 3: Impromptu Conversation
Students will be given a variety of topics and, without preparation, will be required to speak about the topic extensively, answer questions, probe for information, discuss and debate with their fellow classmates.
Unit 4: Rhetoric (balagha)
Students will be taught a wide variety of expressions and rhetorical (balaghi) techniques to employ in their language scenarios. They will be shown numerous examples of taught techniques as well as given different scenarios and levels of formality to incorporate into their language style.
Assessments
Every lesson includes a variety of formative assessments appropriate to the module. Students will receive daily in-class feedback from the instructors. They can also expect a summative assessment at the end of the summer school.
Choosing the Correct Level
Students should apply for the level they believe best reflects their current ability. All applicants will complete a placement test and attend a short interview. Following this, we may reassign a student to a different level if that would be more suitable for their learning and development.
As a general guide:
Beginners Level
For complete beginners who are able to read Arabic text but have not formally studied the language in depth.
Intermediate Level
For those who have studied some Arabic previously, for example at a level similar to the ASI Foundation Year or equivalent.
Advanced Level
For students who have completed more substantial Arabic studies, such as the Alimiyyah programme or ASI Arabic Immersion Year 2, or a comparable level elsewhere.
Our aim is to ensure that each student is placed at the level where they will benefit most and continue progressing with confidence.
Please note: Applications will not be considered unless at least the first instalment, or the full payment, has been made.
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Testimonials
FAQ’s
Eligibility & Levels
Q) Is the course suitable for beginners?
A) Yes, it is. There are three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
Q) What are the requirements for the beginner level?
A) You must be able to read Arabic script.
Q) I have completed the Foundation Year. Which level should I join?
A) You should join the intermediate level.
Q) I’m currently in the ʿĀlimiyyah programme. What level should I join?
A) You may apply for either the intermediate or advanced level, as the focus is on conversational Arabic and reading fluency.
Q) I’m unsure about my level. What should I do?
A) Don’t worry – we’ll carry out a short assessment to place you in the correct level.
Q) What is the minimum age?
A) The programme is for students aged 18 and over. Children aged 13+ may join only if accompanied by a parent who is also enrolled and takes full responsibility.
Mahram & Companion Policy
Q) Do I need to bring a mahram?
A) Under current Saudi regulations, a mahram is not required when travelling on a tourist visa.
However, if your school of thought requires you to travel with a mahram, you are welcome to do so.
Q) Is it advisable to bring family members who are not enrolled on the Arabic programme?
A) The Arabic Summer School is an intensive academic programme designed to provide a focused and immersive learning experience.
Over the past eight years of running the programme, we have found that students travelling alone tend to benefit most from the structure and demands of the course. The programme includes daily homework, group activities, preparation outside class time, and consistent academic engagement.
Students travelling with family members often have additional responsibilities which may divide their attention and reduce the overall academic benefit.
For this reason, priority may be given to applicants travelling as individuals.
That said, we understand that in some circumstances bringing a mahram or family member may be necessary. In such cases, we aim to be as accommodating as possible through our Companion Package.
Q) Can my mahram or family member attend the non-Arabic elements of the programme?
A) Yes. Mahrams and accompanying family members may join under our Companion Package.
Companions will:
Stay in the same accommodation as students
Receive full board meals
Join all organised excursions and trips
Attend Q&A sessions with Shaykh Akram
Benefit from evening naseeha and reminder sessions
It is important to note that the entire structure of the Summer School, including trips and excursions, is designed to complement and support the Arabic learning experience. These activities form part of the wider educational environment and are shaped around the academic objectives of the programme.
As such, certain sessions outside the core Arabic classes may also take place in Arabic without translation.
Companions therefore join within an Arabic academic setting. The only exception is that they do not attend the formal Arabic language classes or participate in the assessed academic component of the course.
Please also note that we are unable to provide a separate or fixed daily schedule for the non-Arabic elements in advance. All activities are arranged around the class timetable and academic structure of the programme.
If you have any specific questions about the Companion Package, please contact us at residentials@alsalam.ac.uk and we will be happy to assist.
Q) Can children join as part of the Companion Package?
A) Children under the age of 13 are not permitted to join the programme as companions.
Our trips and excursions form an integral part of the educational structure of the Arabic programme and are designed for enrolled students who are able to fully engage in the academic and structured elements of the course.
Children aged 13 and above may attend only if they are formally enrolled in the Arabic programme and able to participate fully.
If you have specific circumstances or further questions regarding this policy, please contact us at residentials@alsalam.ac.uk and we will be happy to advise.
Q) What is the Companion Package fee?
A) The Companion Package fee is £850 per adult (twin share).
This includes accommodation, full board meals, participation in non-Arabic sessions, and organised trips.
For further details or to register a companion, please contact:
residentials@alsalam.ac.uk
Q) What is the minimum age?
A) The programme is for students aged 18 and over. Children aged 13+ may join only if accompanied by a parent who is also enrolled and takes full responsibility.
Travel & Practical Information
Q) Will there be airport transfers?
A) No. Airport transfers are not included in the programme package.
Students will need to arrange their own transport to and from the airport. We will, however, share general guidance closer to the time to assist with planning.
Q) What is the weather like in Makkah during August?
A) It is extremely hot. Please be prepared with appropriate clothing, sun protection, and hydration.
Q) Will we visit Madīnah?
A) Visit to Madinah is not included within the core programme package.
However, this year, following the formal completion of classes on Thursday 20 August, we intend to travel to Madinah as a group with for the final two days, Friday 21 August and Saturday 22 August. This visit will be optional and self-organised.
Shaykh Akram will be present with the group during this time. A complimentary visit to selected historical sites in Madinah may also be arranged and guided by Shaykh Akram, subject to confirmation.
Students who wish to participate will need to arrange and book their own travel to Madinah, as well as their own accommodation. Further details will be shared with those who express interest.
Q) Do I need a visa?
A) Yes. You must apply for a tourist visa, which permits Umrah.
Q) Do I need separate travel insurance?
A) Yes, though tourist visas may include insurance. Some credit cards may also provide coverage. Please check your existing policies.
Q) Do I need to bring a maḥram?
A) As per Saudi regulations, a maḥram is not required for the tourist visa. If your school of thought requires it, you may bring one.
Q) Can my maḥram join classes or excursions?
A) Mahrams or accompanying family members are welcome to join under our Companion Package.
Companions will not attend the Arabic classes but will be able to participate in all excursions, attend Q&A sessions with Shaykh Akram, and benefit from the evening naseeha and reminder sessions.
As they are not enrolled in the Arabic component of the programme, a reduced fee will apply. For further information and pricing details, please contact: residentials@alsalam.ac.uk
Q) Do I need to book my own flights?
A) Yes. Participants are responsible for booking their own travel.
Q) Can I extend my stay in Makkah?
A) Yes, subject to your visa conditions. However, if you are staying at the ASI hotel, you must check out at the end of the programme.
Accommodation & Meals
Q) What are the check-in and check-out times?
A) Check-in is from 4:00pm. Check-out is by 12:00pm local time.
Q) What is the arrival date at the Makkah hotel?
A) The arrival date is Saturday 8 August 2026.
Q) Will there be classes on the day of arrival?
A) No. There will be no classes on Saturday 8 August. Students are expected to perform Umrah and rest after arrival. Formal classes will commence on Sunday 9 August.
Further details will be provided during the online Umrah and travel logistics seminar in July.
Q) Will there be a shuttle service to the Ḥaram from the hotel?
A) Yes. Shuttle transport will be available between the hotel, the teaching venue, and the Ḥaram.
Q) Can I book my own accommodation?
A) No. This year, following extensive feedback from previous cohorts, we will not be offering the option to arrange independent accommodation.
We have found that students staying together significantly enhances the overall experience. Much of the benefit of the Summer School lies beyond the classroom, in revising together, practising spoken Arabic, engaging in discussions, and building a shared learning environment. Being in one place helps create a focused and immersive atmosphere that supports both academic and spiritual growth.
Q) Can I request early check-in or late checkout?
A) Yes, subject to availability and additional charges. For further information and pricing details, please contact: residentials@alsalam.ac.uk
Q) Can I upgrade to a single room?
A) Yes. Single rooms are limited and subject to availability. For further information and pricing details, please contact: residentials@alsalam.ac.uk
Q) Which hotel will we be staying at?
A) In recent years, we have transitioned from serviced apartments to comfortable 3–4 star (equivalent) hotel accommodation in the Batha Quraish area, approximately 25 minutes from the Haram via shuttle.
The hotel offers the amenities and services expected of its standard, with nearby shops and facilities. Our residential package includes full board, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided throughout the stay.
Full accommodation details will be shared with registered students closer to departure. All students and companions are required to book accommodation through the programme as part of the residential package.
Q) Does the hotel have laundry facilities?
A) Yes. Laundry services are available at the hotel.
There are also more affordable external laundry services in the area, including collection services that charge per kilogram. This is a common practice in Makkah, particularly in areas close to the Haram.
Alternatively, there are local laundry shops near the hotel. Most students tend to use the collection services due to convenience and cost.
Q) I am travelling with someone who is not participating in the teaching programme. Where can they stay?
A) Accompanying family members may join under our Companion Package and stay in the same accommodation as students.
Companions do not attend the Arabic classes but are welcome to join all excursions, attend Q&A sessions with Shaykh Akram, and benefit from the evening naseeha and reminder sessions.
As they are not enrolled in the Arabic component of the programme, a reduced fee applies. For further information and pricing details, please contact: residentials@alsalam.ac.uk
A) Yes, all meals are included
Programme & Instructors
Q) Who are the instructors?
A) Qualified instructors and scholars affiliated with Al-Salam Institute, along with guest lecturers.
Q) Is there an assessment at the end?
A) Yes, there will be assessments to track progress
Q) Will there be spiritual sessions?
A) Yes. The programme includes spiritual development talks and reflections with Shaykh Akram.
Q) Will I receive course materials?
A) Yes. Students will receive bespoke course materials in digital format.
You may choose to print the materials if you prefer working from a physical copy. While we recommend printing them for ease of use during lessons, please be mindful that this may add to your luggage allowance, particularly if travelling with limited baggage.
Q) Will there be classes on the day of arrival?
A) No. There will be no classes on Saturday, 8 August. Students are expected to perform Umrah and rest after arrival. Formal classes will commence on Sunday, 9 August.
Further details will be provided during the online Umrah and travel logistics seminar in July.
Q) Are there classes every day in Makkah?
A) No. Classes will be held Sunday to Thursday; Fridays and Saturdays will have informal sessions, excursions or free time.
Q) Where will the classes be held?
A) They may take place in hotel conference rooms, prayer halls, classrooms at the Centre for Daʿwah and Cooperation (south Makkah), and other educational institutions.
Q) What is the schedule of the classes?
A) A detailed timetable will be shared with registered students closer to the start date. The outline below reflects the expected structure and is subject to minor adjustments.
Online Phase (Weeks 1 and 2)
Live online classes take place on weekday evenings from 6:45pm to 9:00pm, with an extended session at the weekend from 9:30am to 1:30pm on either Saturday or Sunday. This typically amounts to approximately 15 to 20 hours per week.
In-Person Phase (Makkah)
Structured classes are held daily after breakfast, usually from 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Afternoons are allocated for rest, supervised study hall, or independent study. Evening sessions with Shaykh Akram, which may include naseeha, Seerah, or Q&A, typically last one to two hours. Students will then have free time, often used for personal worship.
On selected days, educational visits to historical sites will be arranged.
Fridays and Saturdays are generally free from structured classes, although informal language tasks may be assigned to reinforce learning.
The final class is scheduled for Thursday 20 August, after which students may join the optional Madinah visit.
Q) Can I join only the online option if I am unable to travel to Makkah?
A) Yes. Students who are unable to travel to Makkah may enrol in the two-week online phase. However, we recommend the full four-week programme for the complete experience.
Fees
Q) What does the fee include?
A) It covers tuition, accommodation (twin share), all meals, and excursions.
Q) Are there any additional costs?
A) Yes. Budget for flights, visa, personal spending, optional meals, any optional local taxi trips, and any trips to Madīnah.
Q) Is financial assistance available?
A) Aside from the early bird discount, no additional financial support is available.
Q) What is the payment schedule?
A) You may pay in full or in two instalments (standard price) or three instalments (early bird).
Q) Can I pay by cash or bank transfer?
A) Yes. Payment may be made by bank transfer or in cash.
Cash payments must be delivered in person to our London office. In both cases, please email residentials@alsalam.ac.uk to request the bank details or to arrange payment.
Q) Can I receive a fee reduction if I attend only part of the Summer School?
A) No. Students who are unable to attend the full duration of the Summer School are not eligible for a fee reduction.
If you know in advance that you will not be staying for the full duration, please inform us by emailing us as soon as possible so that we are aware of your plans. residentials@alsalam.ac.uk
Umrah & Worship
Q) Will there be a group ʿUmrah?
A) No. Due to differing arrival times, no group Umrah is organised. However, we will group students together based on arrival times if they wish to perform ‘Umrah in smaller groups. If this is your first time performing ‘Umrah, please let us know and we will try to group you with a student who has some previous experience.
Q) Is there time for personal worship in the Ḥaram?
A) Yes. The schedule allows time for personal worship, particularly in the evenings. A 24-hour shuttle service operates daily between the accommodation and the Haram. Students will usually have free time after Maghrib. On some days, however, they may be advised to remain and complete coursework or assignments.
Q) Will there be Umrah guidance for those travelling for the first time?
A) Yes. An Umrah seminar, followed by a Q&A session with Shaykh Akram, will be delivered approximately four weeks before departure. This will include practical guidance and key logistical details to help students prepare.
Register Now! Limited Spaces Available
Early Bird Price: £1550*
Early Bird Price: £350*
If you would like to find out more, have questions regarding the application process, or are unsure about anything, please contact our admissions team.