Mastering Arabic by Jane Wightwick and Mahmoud Gaafar is the classic self-study course for Modern Standard Arabic - used by universities, evening classes and self-learners for decades. It assumes zero Arabic, teaches the script from the first pages, and comes with audio so you hear every dialogue. Hani Bookstore stocks the full set.

Shop Mastering Arabic 1

The complete set

• Mastering Arabic 1 with Online Audio ($44.99) - the beginner course: script, pronunciation, everyday conversations.
• Mastering Arabic 1 Activity Book ($19.99) - extra practice for every unit of Book 1.
• Mastering Arabic 2 with 2 Audio CDs ($44.99) - the intermediate continuation.
• Mastering Arabic 2 Activity Book ($19.99) - written practice to intermediate level.

Who this course fits

Adults and older teens who want to genuinely read and converse in Modern Standard Arabic - whether for study, work, heritage or as a foundation for classical texts. The pace is friendly: pictures, puzzles and audio dialogues rather than dry grammar tables. Pair it with a good dictionary - the Hans Wehr Dictionary is the standard reference - and, if Quran reading is the goal, add a Noorani Qaidah for tajweed-oriented practice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Mastering Arabic 1 and Mastering Arabic 2?

Mastering Arabic 1 is the beginner course: the alphabet, everyday vocabulary and core grammar with audio. Mastering Arabic 2 continues to intermediate level with longer texts and more complex grammar. Finish Book 1 (or an equivalent beginner course) before starting Book 2.

Do I need the Activity Book too?

The Activity Book adds extra written practice for each unit of the main course. Self-learners who want more drilling benefit the most; classroom students should follow their teacher's list.

Is Mastering Arabic good for reading the Quran?

Mastering Arabic teaches Modern Standard Arabic for reading, writing and conversation. It builds a strong foundation, but if your goal is specifically Quran recitation, start with a Qaida primer such as Noorani Qaidah alongside it.