10 Arabic Words Expats in Qatar Can’t Stop Using
Living in Qatar means stepping into a rich blend of languages and cultures — and sooner or later, most expats start picking up Arabic expressions that are just too useful (or fun) to resist. Some become so natural, they slip into English conversations without anyone noticing. Here are 10 Arabic words and phrases that expats in Qatar love to use !
1. Yalla (يلا) – Let’s go / Come on!
Short, energetic, and perfect for any situation.
Example: "Yalla, we’re going to be late for iftar!"
2. Yani (يعني) – I mean / Like...
The ultimate filler word — vague but versatile.
Example: "The traffic was crazy, yani, we barely made it."
3. Habibi / Habibti (حبيبي / حبيبتي) – My dear / darling
Used affectionately or even sarcastically among friends.
Example: "Relax, habibi, everything’s fine!"
4. Inshallah (إن شاء الله) – God willing
Often used when making future plans — sometimes sincerely, sometimes ironically.
Example: "I’ll submit the report by Monday… inshallah."
5. Khalas (خلص) – Enough / Done / That’s it
Perfect when you’re wrapping something up or setting a boundary.
Example: "No more sweets for you. Khalas!"
6. Wallah (والله) – I swear to God!
Adds seriousness, surprise, or passion to any statement.
Example: "Wallah, that shawarma was the best I’ve ever had!"
7. Shoof / Shoofi (شوف / شوفي) – Look!
Command form, used all the time when pointing something out.
Example: "Shoof this video, it's hilarious!"
8. Mafi Mushkila (مافي مشكلة) – No problem!
A friendly, laid-back way to say everything’s okay.
Example: "You forgot the file? Mafi mushkila, I’ll resend it."
9. Zain (زين) – Good / Fine
Common in Gulf Arabic, it’s short and easy to use.
Example: "How’s everything?" – "Zain, zain."
10. Aiwa (أيوه) – Yes / Yeah
A punchy, satisfying alternative to "yes."
Example: "You coming for karak?" – "Aiwa!"
✨ Final Thought
These little words do more than bridge languages — they bring people closer. Whether you're a fresh arrival or a long-time expat, using local phrases like yalla and mafi mushkila is a sign you’re not just living in Qatar — you're living with Qatar.
