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University Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

How to Type in Other Languages: Arabic

A guide to installing and typing in common non-Latin character scripts on home computers.

Subject Guide

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International and Area Studies Library
Contact:
Room 321 Main Library
1408 W. Gregory Dr.
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 333-1501
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Introduction

Typing in Arabic (or other Arabic script languages) on most modern computers uses an Arabic layout keyboard. The exact layouts vary between operating systems, look at the differences here. As with other scripts using a unique keyboard layout, while you are learning to type it may be helpful to buy pre-cut stickers for your keyboard so you can look down while you type. They are inexpensive and widely available online.

There are also options available for Romanized typing, where you can spell out the word in Roman characters and the system will automatically convert them to Arabic script. 

Video Guide

Guides

Romanized Typing Options

  • Microsoft Maren: A new Romanization system for Windows to type without learning the Arabic keyboard layout
  • Yamli: An online Romanization typing tool