“Gabriel Gleaves: A Transformative Learning Experience in Egypt”

Gabriel Gleaves had an amazing learning journey in Egypt that changed his life. After finishing his studies at the University of Manchester, Gabriel decided to return to the Arab world. He had spent time in Jordan before and loved the culture, so he applied for an internship as a Spanish teacher at Ahlan World Arabic School in Alexandria. It was there that Gabriel started his Arabic learning adventure.
His time in Egypt gave him a chance to study both the Egyptian dialect and Modern Standard Arabic. Gabriel Gleaves soon found out that the two forms of Arabic were quite different from each other. Despite the challenge, he made huge progress and can now speak and understand Egyptian Arabic much better, thanks to his classes and the great teachers at Ahlan.
Gabriel Gleaves’ Journey to Learn Arabic in Egypt

Gabriel Gleaves’ journey to Egypt was more than just a trip abroad. After finishing his studies at the University of Manchester in 2021, Gabriel wanted to return to the Arab world, a place he had grown fond of during his time in Jordan. He took the bold step to apply for an internship at Ahlan World Arabic School in Alexandria, Egypt. This decision allowed him to immerse himself in both Egyptian culture and the Arabic language.
In Alexandria, Gabriel began learning Egyptian Arabic, also known as ‘amiyya,’ and Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). The difference between these two forms of Arabic became clear to him quickly. While MSA is more formal and used in media and writing, the Egyptian dialect is more common in daily conversations. Gabriel’s goal was to become fluent in Egyptian Arabic, and with hard work, he saw his skills improve every day.
What Gabriel Gleaves Learned from Teaching Spanish in Alexandria
One of the most rewarding parts of Gabriel Gleaves’ experience was his role as a Spanish teacher at Ahlan World Arabic School. By teaching, he not only helped others but also learned a lot about the Egyptian culture and language. Gabriel taught students from various backgrounds and enjoyed the challenge of adjusting his lessons to meet each student’s needs.
Teaching also helped him become more confident in his Arabic. While explaining complex topics in Spanish, he practiced speaking Arabic with colleagues and students. This constant use of the language helped Gabriel improve faster.
How Gabriel Gleaves Improved His Arabic in Just 6 Weeks

Gabriel Gleaves’ six-week experience in Alexandria was a time of rapid growth. The combination of formal lessons and immersion in the local culture helped him improve his Arabic quickly.
With dedicated study, Gabriel found that his ability to understand and speak the Egyptian dialect grew significantly. He practiced daily, talked with locals, and used Arabic in real-life situations. By the end of his six weeks, Gabriel was confident enough to have conversations with Egyptians about various topics, from everyday life to more complex subjects.
Key Tips for Learning Arabic Quickly:
- Take both group lessons and one-on-one classes
- Practice speaking with locals as much as possible
- Focus on the dialect that is most common in your area
- Be consistent with your learning routine
The Cultural Experiences of Gabriel Gleaves in Egypt
Aside from studying, Gabriel Gleaves had the chance to explore Egypt’s rich history and culture. He visited places like the Pyramids of Giza, Siwa Oasis, and Hurghada. These trips allowed him to experience Egypt’s beautiful landscapes and learn about the ancient civilizations that once lived there.
Gabriel especially enjoyed the Mediterranean coastline in Alexandria. The city’s relaxed atmosphere, with its sea breeze and historical sites, made it the perfect place to live while studying. Gabriel also had the chance to enjoy Egyptian cuisine, including the famous dessert Um Ali, which became one of his favorites.
Why Gabriel Gleaves Chose Alexandria for His Arabic Studies

Gabriel Gleaves chose Alexandria for many reasons. Unlike Cairo, which is busy and crowded, Alexandria offers a more relaxed lifestyle. The city has fewer people, which allows for a more peaceful environment.
Besides the great weather, Alexandria has a rich cultural history. Gabriel was able to visit landmarks like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and experience the local way of life. It was the perfect setting for Gabriel’s study abroad experience.
What Makes Alexandria Special?
- Peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds
- Beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea
- Rich history and cultural landmarks
- Delicious local food and sweets
Conclusion
Gabriel Gleaves’ time in Egypt was a life-changing experience. By learning Arabic in Alexandria, he not only improved his language skills but also got to know a new culture. His journey shows that stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things can lead to personal growth and success.
Through his experience, Gabriel proved that language learning is possible with hard work and the right environment. Whether it’s talking with locals, trying new foods, or visiting historical sites, every part of his trip helped him grow.
FAQs
Q: Why did Gabriel Gleaves choose Egypt for his language studies?
A: Gabriel chose Egypt because he wanted to learn Egyptian Arabic and experience the culture. Alexandria, with its calm atmosphere and rich history, was the perfect place for him.
Q: How long did Gabriel Gleaves stay in Egypt?
A: Gabriel stayed in Egypt for about 6 weeks, during which he studied Arabic and explored the city and surrounding areas.
Q: What was Gabriel Gleaves’ favorite food in Egypt?
A: Gabriel’s favorite food in Egypt was Um Ali, a sweet dessert made with puff pastry, nuts, raisins, and cream.