SABLA

SABLA is an intensive language and cultural immersion program for American adult students and professionals. Each summer, students from across the U.S. can study Arabic at SQCC on scholarship.

The word Sabla in Omani Arabic dialect refers to a place in each community where people gather and receive hospitality. Sabla also serves as a meeting place to discuss important public issues.

The Sabla program aspires to be a hub bringing together students from across the U.S. for a dynamic linguistic and cultural exchange. The program hopes to enable students to become active learners and to form a community to cultivate a lifelong Arabic language learning experience.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The program is an intensive summer language experience designed to benefit adult students and professionals. Courses are offered at three different levels: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. The program emphasizes the instruction of Modern Standard Arabic or MSA (fusha).

The Sabla program runs for five weeks each summer, from Monday to Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Experienced instructors use a proficiency-based approach that emphasizes all five skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing and grammar. Arabic is the main language of instruction. Classes are held in technologically advanced classrooms. The program offers formal instruction in a language that is enriched by immersion in an authentic cultural context. Cultural activities include weekly lectures on topics related to Arab history, society, art, and culture with a special focus on Oman.

The program includes:

  • Integrated weekly cultural events, including presentations and movie screenings
  • Attending lectures featuring guest speakers
  • Trips to acquaint students with the magnificent Middle Eastern heritage on display in museums and libraries across D.C.

How to Apply & Application Requirements

  • Submit completed application form and supporting materials via this website.
  • Resume
  • Essays
    • Write an essay, in English, that discusses how participation in the Sabla Program at SQCC will help you accomplish your future goals. How do you plan to incorporate Arabic language study into your academic and/or career plans? (300-500 words)
    • Write an essay, in Arabic (only for Advanced Level), introducing yourself to the Arabic program staff, including a discussion of your personal and professional interests and goals. (175 words)
  • One letter of recommendation (optional) to send to [email protected]
  • Unofficial transcripts

Eligibility

  • Adult students and professionals.

Fees

This academic scholarship covers the cost of classes only. Students will be responsible to pay for their airfare ticket to D.C., accommodation, and food, excursions (most museums in D.C. are free to the public) and any other miscellaneous living expenses for the duration of their stay in Washington, D.C.

Accommodation

Students must make their own arrangements at a hotel, hostel, or private home in D.C. Reservations should be made in advance before arriving to D.C. for class. SQCC does not provide housing. Students must arrange for their own housing.

Insurance

All insurance coverage including medical, life, accident etc. is the responsibility of the student. Please note that students will be required to provide proof of valid medical insurance with their application.

Courses

  • Beginner  
  • Intermediate  
  • Advanced  
Apply here !

Announcements

Applications are now open for the 2026 SABLA Program.

The deadline for submission of all application materials is 11:59 p.m. EST, June 15, 2026.

SABLA Program will start on Monday, June 15th, 2026, and it will take place at Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center (SQCC).

Contact

For questions or assistance email: [email protected]