How to Type Arabic Characters on English Keyboard

In today's digital age, global communication has never been more accessible. However, when it comes to writing Arabic letters using an English keyboard, many find it challenging. But worry no more, as we've got you covered with a comprehensive guide to assist you in typing Arabic letters effortlessly.

Arabic Keyboard Layout (Arabic 101) | Learn Arabic Typing
Arabic Keyboard Layout (Arabic 101) | Learn Arabic Typing

Before diving into the details, it's crucial to understand that Arabic is written from right to left and has its unique script. This guide will introduce you to the Arabic alphabet and various methods to type these characters on an English keyboard.

How to Write Islamic Arabic words in MS Word using keyboard shortcuts
How to Write Islamic Arabic words in MS Word using keyboard shortcuts

Arabic Alphabet and Character Maps

The Arabic alphabet, also known as the Arabic abjad, consists of 28 letters. It may seem daunting initially, but with practice, you'll become proficient in typing these letters. Let's explore two methods to type Arabic letters: Character Map and Microsoft Word's Built-in Feature.

Arabic Alphabet (Beginner's Guide + Chart)
Arabic Alphabet (Beginner's Guide + Chart)

Using Character Map

Character Map is a built-in utility in both Windows and macOS that enables you to insert special characters, including Arabic letters.

an arabic keyboard is shown with the letters and numbers in green, black and white
an arabic keyboard is shown with the letters and numbers in green, black and white

Windows Users: Press the 'Windows key + R' to open the Run dialog box. Type 'charmap' and hit enter to open Character Map. macOS Users: Open Spotlight by pressing 'Command + Space', then type 'Character Map' and hit return.

Microsoft Word's Built-in Feature

If you're a die-hard Microsoft user, you'll be delighted to know that Word has a built-in feature to insert Arabic letters.

an image of a keyboard with arabic letters on the keys and numbers for each key
an image of a keyboard with arabic letters on the keys and numbers for each key

Open Microsoft Word, type the Arabic character (without space) you wish to insert. Right-click on the typed character and select 'Symbol' from the menu. This will open the Symbol dialog box, where you can select your desired Arabic character.

Virtual Arabic Keyboard

A more convenient method is using a virtual Arabic keyboard. These keyboards mimic the physical Arabic keyboard layout, making it easier to type Arabic letters using an English keyboard.

an arabic text is displayed on a piece of paper with the words for your information
an arabic text is displayed on a piece of paper with the words for your information

Google Input Tools

Google Input Tools is a suite of free virtual keyboard layouts for various languages, including Arabic. It's available for both Windows and macOS.

Arabic Letters
Arabic Letters
Arabic letters
Arabic letters
How to write Arabic Alphabets
How to write Arabic Alphabets
the arabic keyboard touch type guide for kids and adults to learn how to use it
the arabic keyboard touch type guide for kids and adults to learn how to use it
The arabic alphabet
The arabic alphabet
an arabic text that has been written in two different languages, and it is very difficult to
an arabic text that has been written in two different languages, and it is very difficult to
an arabic text that has been written in two different languages, and the words below it are
an arabic text that has been written in two different languages, and the words below it are
arabic alphabets and numbers are displayed in this screenshoter's screen shot
arabic alphabets and numbers are displayed in this screenshoter's screen shot
a black and blue computer keyboard with arabic writing on the bottom half of the keyboard
a black and blue computer keyboard with arabic writing on the bottom half of the keyboard

After installation, switch to the Arabic keyboard using the layout switcher on the bottom right corner of your screen. Start typing in Arabic, and the English characters will automatically be converted into Arabic.

Pop coin keyboard

Pop coin keyboard is another excellent tool for typing Arabic letters. It's user-friendly and supports Windows, macOS, and Linux. Similar to Google Input Tools, it converts English characters into Arabic as you type.

Incorporating Arabic typing into your daily routine takes practice, but with these tools and a little determination, you'll be writing in Arabic like a pro in no time. Stay committed to your learning journey and explore the richness of the Arabic language and culture.