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Published on January 31, 2026

Basic French & Arabic Phrases for Travelers in Djibouti

Embarking on an adventure to Djibouti promises an unforgettable experience, from the otherworldly landscapes of Lac 'Assal to the vibrant marine life of the Gulf of Tadjoura. While many locals in tourist areas may speak some English, a little effort to communicate in the local languages goes a long way. Mastering a few basic French and Arabic phrases will not only smooth your interactions but also enrich your cultural immersion in this fascinating Horn of Africa nation.

Why Learn Basic Phrases for Djibouti?

Djibouti's unique blend of French colonial heritage and deep-rooted Arabic and East African cultures is reflected in its linguistic landscape. French is an official language, a legacy of its past, while Arabic holds national language status, integral to daily life and religious practice. Learning even a handful of phrases demonstrates respect for local customs and opens doors to more authentic interactions, whether you're haggling in a market, ordering food, or simply greeting a local.

Did you know?Djibouti is often called the "Gateway to the Red Sea" due to its strategic location, influencing its diverse cultural and linguistic tapestry.

A Glimpse into Djibouti's Linguistic Tapestry

French serves as the primary language for administration, education, and business, while Modern Standard Arabic is used in religious contexts and formal communication. However, the Arabic spoken daily is often a regional dialect. Beyond these, the local population primarily speaks Somali and Afar, two Cushitic languages. While this article focuses on French and Arabic due to their official status and widespread utility for travelers, hearing Somali and Afar is a common experience, especially outside the capital.

Essential French Phrases for Travelers

French is widely understood in urban areas and among those involved in tourism. It's an excellent fallback and often the language of formal interaction.

Greetings & Introductions

  • Bonjour(bahn-ZHOOR) – Hello / Good day
  • Bonsoir(bohn-SWAHR) – Good evening
  • Salut(sah-LOO) – Hi (informal)
  • Comment ça va?(koh-MAHN sah VAH?) – How are you?
  • Ça va bien, merci(sah VAH byan, mer-SEE) – I'm fine, thank you
  • Je m'appelle...(zhuh mah-PELL...) – My name is...
  • Enchanté(e)(ahn-shahn-TAY) – Nice to meet you

Basic Politeness

  • S'il vous plaît(seel voo PLEH) – Please
  • Merci (beaucoup)(mer-SEE boh-KOO) – Thank you (very much)
  • De rien(duh ree-EN) – You're welcome
  • Excusez-moi(ex-koo-zay-MWAH) – Excuse me (to get attention or apologize)
  • Pardon(par-DOHN) – Sorry / Pardon me (for bumping into someone)
  • Oui(wee) – Yes
  • Non(nohn) – No

Getting Around & Asking for Help

Navigating Moucha Islands boat trips or finding your way to Day Forest National Park will be easier with these phrases.

  • Où est...?(oo EH...?) – Where is...?
  • À gauche(ah GOHSH) – To the left
  • À droite(ah DRWAHT) – To the right
  • Tout droit(too DRWAH) – Straight ahead
  • Je cherche...(zhuh SHER-shuh...) – I am looking for...
  • Combien?(kohm-BYAN?) – How much?
  • Je ne comprends pas(zhuh nuh kohm-PRAHN pah) – I don't understand
  • Parlez-vous anglais?(par-lay voo zahn-GLEH?) – Do you speak English?
  • Aidez-moi!(eh-day-MWAH!) – Help me!

Dining & Shopping

  • Je voudrais...(zhuh voo-DREH...) – I would like...
  • L'addition, s'il vous plaît(lah-dee-SYOHN, seel voo PLEH) – The bill, please
  • C'est bon / C'est délicieux(seh BOHN / seh day-lee-SYUH) – It's good / It's delicious
  • Eau(oh) – Water
  • Café(kah-FAY) – Coffee
  • Non, merci(nohn, mer-SEE) – No, thank you

Essential Arabic Phrases for Travelers

Arabic is widely spoken and understood, particularly in local markets (souks) and religious settings. It's also the language of choice for many informal interactions.

Greetings & Farewells

  • As-salamu alaykum(as-sah-LAH-moo ah-LAY-koom) – Peace be upon you (common greeting)
  • Wa alaykum as-salam(wah ah-LAY-koom as-sah-LAHm) – And upon you be peace (the reply)
  • Marhaba(MAR-ha-ba) – Hello / Welcome
  • Sabah al-khair(sah-BAH al-khair) – Good morning
  • Masa al-khair(MAS-ah al-khair) – Good evening
  • Ma'a as-salama(MAH ah as-sah-LAH-ma) – Goodbye

Politeness & Gratitude

  • Shukran (jazeelan)(SHOO-kran ja-ZEE-lan) – Thank you (very much)
  • Afwan(AF-wan) – You're welcome / Excuse me
  • Min fadlak / Min fadlik(min FAD-lak / min FAD-lik) – Please (to a male / to a female)
  • Na'am(NAH-am) – Yes
  • La(LAH) – No
  • Asif(AH-sif) – Sorry

Practical Communication

Whether you're exploring the unique geological formations around Lake Abhe or haggling for souvenirs, these phrases will be useful.

  • Kayfa haluk?(KAY-fa HAH-look?) – How are you? (to a male)
  • Kayfa haluki?(KAY-fa HAH-loo-kee?) – How are you? (to a female)
  • Ana bekhair, shukran(AN-na be-KHAIR, SHOO-kran) – I'm fine, thank you
  • Ana la afham(AN-na lah AF-ham) – I don't understand
  • Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya?(hal ta-ta-KAL-lam al-in-GLEE-zee-ya?) – Do you speak English?
  • Ayn...?(AYN...?) – Where is...?
  • Kam hatha?(KAM HA-tha?) – How much is this?
  • Ayda!(AY-dah!) – Help!

Tips for Communicating in Djibouti

  • Be Patient:Communication can sometimes be a bit slow, especially with language barriers. Patience and a smile go a long way.
  • Use Gestures:Non-verbal cues are universally understood. Pointing, miming, and hand gestures can help convey your message when words fail.
  • Don't Be Afraid to Try:Locals appreciate the effort you make to speak their language, even if you stumble. It's a sign of respect.
  • Carry a Phrasebook or App:For more complex situations, a small phrasebook or a translation app on your phone can be invaluable. Ensure it works offline.
  • Listen Carefully:Pay attention to the responses you receive. Even if you don't understand every word, you might pick up on key terms or the general gist.
  • Respect Local Customs:When greeting, especially with Arabic speakers, a handshake is common. For women, it's often best to wait for a woman to initiate a handshake.

By arming yourself with these basic French and Arabic phrases, you're not just learning words; you're unlocking deeper cultural connections and enhancing every aspect of your Djiboutian adventure. From asking for directions to simply sharing a friendly greeting, these linguistic tools will make your journey smoother, more meaningful, and truly unforgettable.

So, pack your bags, learn a few phrases, and get ready to experience the warmth and hospitality of Djibouti!