How Arabic Keywords Differ from English Keywords in Search Behavior
When it comes to SEO in the Middle East, Arabic keywords are very different from English keywords. Understanding these differences can help you optimize your website better and reach the right audience. In this blog, we’ll explain how Arabic keywords differ from English ones, share actionable tips, and help you improve your Arabic content optimization.
For more on Arabic vs English SEO, check out our detailed guide here.
Why Arabic Keywords Are Different
Arabic vs English Keywords SEO
The first thing to know is that Arabic keywords behave differently in search engines compared to English. Arabic is written right-to-left, has many variations for the same word, and search intent can differ based on dialects.
For example:
- In English, users might search “best coffee in Dubai.â€
- In Arabic, they might search “Ø£Ùضل قهوة ÙÙŠ دبي†or “قهوة دبي الأÙضل.â€
Even small changes in phrasing affect search results. This is why search behavior differences Arabic English are important to understand.
How Users Search in Arabic
MENA Region Search Behavior
People in the Middle East search differently based on culture, language, and location. Some points to keep in mind:
- Users often mix English and Arabic words in searches (called “Arabiziâ€).
- Mobile searches are very common.
- Long-tail keywords are widely used, like “أرخص مطاعم ÙÙŠ دبي للغداء.â€
Knowing this helps your Arabic keyword research tips become more effective.
Tips for Arabic Keyword Research
Arabic Keyword Research Tips
- Use Google Keyword Planner or Ahrefs set to Arabic and UAE location.
- Include variations of the same word (different spellings or dialects).
- Target long-tail Arabic keywords that align with user intent.
- Check Google search trends to see what people are looking for.
English Keyword Research Strategies
For comparison, English keyword research is more straightforward. Users tend to search in standard English phrases, and there is less variation than Arabic. Using tools like Keyword Planner or SEMrush, you can target short-tail and long-tail English keywords.
Arabic Content Optimization
How to Optimize Arabic Content
To rank better in Arabic search results:
- Use Arabic keywords naturally in titles, headings, and paragraphs.
- Ensure your website supports right-to-left (RTL) layouts.
- Write content that matches the culture and preferences of Arabic-speaking users.
- Combine Arabic and English keywords if your audience searches in both languages.
Following Arabic SEO best practices ensures higher visibility and better engagement.
Multilingual SEO for Middle East
If your website targets both English and Arabic users:
- Create separate pages for Arabic and English.
- Use hreflang tags to tell Google which language is which.
- Optimize each page with the correct keywords, titles, and meta descriptions.
This approach is part of multilingual SEO for Middle East and helps you rank in both languages.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how Arabic keywords differ from English keywords in search behavior is crucial for UAE businesses. Using proper Arabic keyword research tips, optimizing content, and implementing multilingual SEO for Middle East can dramatically improve your search visibility.
At The Digital Creations, we have helped dozens of clients succeed with SEO. We are one of the best digital marketing agencies in Abu Dhabi, ready to help your business grow online.
FAQs About Arabic vs English Keywords
Q1: Can I just translate English keywords into Arabic?
No. Direct translation is not enough. Localize content by considering dialects and search intent.
Q2: Which keywords are easier to rank for in the UAE?
Well-researched Arabic keywords can yield faster results, particularly for local searches, due to lower competition compared to English keywords.
Q3: Should I combine English and Arabic on one page?
You can, but it’s better to have separate pages for each language for SEO.
Q4: How do I track Arabic keyword performance?
Use Google Search Console, SEMrush, or Ahrefs set to UAE and Arabic.