Ali Baba International Center (ABIC) is an Arabic Language Institute situated in the heart of Amman, the vibrant capital of Jordan. The Center offers year-round Arabic language immersion programs designed to provide a comprehensive cultural and linguistic experience. A typical semester program includes three core components: (1) Arabic language and Middle Eastern area studies course, (2) comfortable, student-friendly accommodation, and (3) a dynamic schedule of extracurricular activities and guided tours to Jordan’s most renowned historical and cultural sites. Further details are provided below.  
  
(I). Program Academics  
At the heart of the program is the Arabic Media and Journalism course. Key details—such as instructional hours, proficiency levels, core textbooks, thematic content, credit transfer guidelines, and program dates—are outlined below.
 
Number of Hours: The program delivers a total of 320 contact hours over a 16-week period. Instruction is provided five days a week, with four hours of class time each day, totaling 20 teaching hours per week. This schedule results in approximately 80 instructional hours each month. 

Levels:  This program is designed for students at upper-intermediate to advanced proficiency levels. Placement is determined through an online assessment and a pre-program interview to ensure each student is enrolled in the appropriate level. 

Text Book: This program incorporates the Media Arabic textbook, complemented by a diverse range of original topics developed by the Ali Baba Center team, with a focus on political, social, and cultural themes. The course explores a diverse range of contemporary issues drawn from political, social, and cultural life in the Arab world. Topics include Arabic media, migration, gender and human rights, religious discourse, modern slavery, Islamophobia, homophobia, propaganda, and the influence of technology and social media on public perception and discourse. 

Official Credit Transfer and Equivalency: This program is typically equivalent to at least 16 credit hours at most credit-based universities. ABIC issues official transcripts at the end of each academic term and can provide supporting documentation to help home institutions facilitate direct credit transfer. As a general guideline, one credit hour is granted for every 15 to 20 contact hours completed at ABIC. 

(II). Accommodation Options
ABIC offers a range of housing options to suit different preferences, including private apartments, shared apartments, and homestays with local Jordanian families. All accommodations are conveniently located near the Center and are easily accessible by foot or a short taxi ride. For more information about each option, please visit our Accommodation Page.  
 
Private Studio: A compact, open-plan living space that includes a bedroom, private bathroom, and kitchenette.
Private Apartment: A fully furnished unit featuring a separate bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, and living area.
Shared Apartment: A multi-bedroom unit shared with other students, offering shared access to a bathroom, kitchenette, and living area.
Homestay with a Local Family: Includes a private bedroom and bathroom, along with two home-cooked meals per day, providing a culturally immersive experience.


(III). Cultural Engagement: On-Campus Events and Off-Campus Trips
Each week, ABIC organizes a variety of engaging extracurricular activities, both on-campus and off-campus, designed to enhance students’ cultural immersion and language learning experience. These activities range from interactive workshops and cultural events to guided excursions across Jordan. A sample of these activities is listed below. To explore photos and videos from past events, please visit our Activities Gallery Page.
 
On-Campus Activities: A variety of cultural experiences are offered on-site, including Arabic calligraphy workshops, henna design sessions, colored sand bottle art, traditional Jordanian lunch days, and cultural open house events. These activities provide hands-on engagement with Arab traditions and customs. 

Off-Campus Trips: The program includes three organized day trips every month:
A guided tour of downtown Amman with a traditional Jordanian breakfast (Week 1)
An unforgettable visit to the ancient city of Petra (Week 2)
A combined trip to Jerash and Ajloun, exploring Roman ruins and scenic hilltop castles (Week 3). 

Language Partner Program: Students are paired with local university students to practice conversational Arabic and build meaningful cross-cultural connections through informal language exchange. 

(IV). Scholarships and Financial Support
Students are encouraged to apply for external funding opportunities such as the Boren Awards, Fulbright Program, Fund for Education Abroad, Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, FLAS, and others. ABIC also offers partial financial aid to eligible students.
 
(V). Registration and Admission
Enrolling in the program is simple and streamlined. To apply, please follow the provided instructions carefully and complete the application form in full to ensure timely processing. For registration details and to begin your application, visit our Registration Page.
 
(VI). Student Testimonials
Student feedback plays a vital role in helping us enhance our programs and services. Testimonials are collected in two formats: written statements and recorded video messages. To view past testimonials, please visit our Testimonials Page.

(VII). Other Program Offerings and Flexible Formats
Although this program is primarily offered as an on-site semester-based program, it can also be customized for individuals or closed groups as a private program. These private programs can be delivered either on-site at ABIC or online, with flexible start dates and durations to meet the specific needs and schedules of the participants. For more information, please send inquiries to info@alibaba.jo.