Working in a foreign country like Saudi Arabia can be a life-changing experience. For many migrant workers, it’s an opportunity to earn a better income and support loved ones back home. However, one of the most common challenges, especially in multi-national workplaces like construction sites, households, factories, or small shops is the language barrier.
You might find yourself reporting to a manager who doesn’t speak English, and maybe not even Arabic, but instead speaks Urdu, Bengali, or another regional language.
This guide is written for Filipinos and other expats facing such situations. With patience, strategies, and the right attitude, you can still work effectively, even when communication feels impossible.
Understanding the challenge
Many workers are shocked when they realise that even basic English or Arabic isn’t always spoken by the supervisor or team leader. It’s not uncommon in Saudi Arabia to work under someone who speaks only their local dialect, like Hindi, Malayalam, Pashto, or Amharic. Misunderstandings can cause delays, stress, or even safety risks.
For example, if you misinterpret a command to shut off a machine or fail to understand a fire drill instruction, it could lead to accidents or injuries not just for you, but for others nearby.
Imagine a scenario: you’re told “bring the makoora” by your supervisor. You don’t understand what it is, and your first reaction might be confusion or frustration. But remember, they might feel just as helpless trying to explain it to you.
Learn basic Arabic words and phrases
Even if your manager doesn’t speak Arabic, you will find Arabic useful in daily life and workmany tools, signs, or labels are in Arabic, and so are basic instructions.
Start with words for tools, days of the week, numbers, directions, and safety terms. Learn how to say “I don’t understand,” “repeat please,” and “slowly.” Apps like Duolingo, Google Translate, and YouTube lessons can be helpful. Here are a few useful phrases:
Mafi maloom Arabi (I don’t understand Arabic)
Shwaya shwaya (Slowly, slowly)
Sho hada? (What is this?)
Ism hada? (Name of this?)
Use Gestures and Objects to Communicate
Non-verbal communication is universal. If you’re struggling to understand instructions, don’t be afraid to point, show, or demonstrate. Bring the object in question, point to the place, or mimic the task.
Many seasoned workers in Saudi rely on hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language to get their message across.
For example, if you’re being asked to lift or move something, your manager might gesture lifting their hand or pointing to a location. Mimic and repeat to confirm—this builds trust and shows your willingness to understand.
Build a Personal Dictionary or Visual Guide
Create a small notebook or keep a digital note on your phone where you write down words you hear repeatedly. Write how the word sounds (phonetic spelling) and its meaning in Filipino or English. Add sketches or photos if it helps. This is your survival dictionary and will grow fast over time.
Examples:
Makoora – broom
Shanta – bag
Kabir – big
Sogheer – small
It might not be grammatically perfect, but it works. You can also ask a coworker who speaks both your language and your manager’s to help translate and build your list.
Use translation apps wisely
Apps like Google Translate can be lifesavers, but they’re not always perfect. Try using voice-to-voice translation or image translation when showing tools or signage. For Tagalog speakers, make sure to set the translation correctly (e.g., Tagalog to Arabic or Tagalog to Hindi).
Tip: Speak clearly and slowly when using the microphone feature, and ask your manager to speak slowly in return.
Build workplace friendships
Find a fellow worker who can help interpret or clarify things. Many OFWs find that someone in their team speaks more than one language and is willing to help bridge the gap. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or clarify instructions again. Say thank you and remember to help others once you’ve learned something new too.
In mixed-nationality workplaces, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to learn from each other. Show kindness and humility, and others will usually do the same.
Be patient, stay professional
Miscommunication can be frustrating, but losing your temper or showing disrespect will only make things worse. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times, but keep calm. Breathe. Ask politely. And if a mistake happens due to language misunderstanding, own it and explain that you’re still learning.
Patience and a professional attitude often speak louder than words. In many cases, managers will admire your persistence and effort more than perfect grammar.
Request for written instructions or drawings
If possible, ask for written instructions or even hand-drawn diagrams. A sketch can say more than words when language fails. Some companies are used to this and already have visual SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) or charts for training.
If you’re in a cleaning, construction, or warehouse role, it helps to keep photos or diagrams of tasks for reference.
Final thoughts
What feels like a problem now can turn into one of your biggest strengths. Over time, you’ll pick up new words, new communication skills, and greater cultural understanding. Many OFWs end up being promoted or becoming supervisors themselves because they’ve learned how to work across languages.
The key is not to be afraid. The more you engage, observe, and adapt, the more confident you’ll become. Language is just one part of the job—your work ethic, attitude, and willingness to learn matter even more.
For newcomers in Saudi Arabia, especially first-time OFWs, expect the first few weeks to be tough. But with time, you’ll learn to thrive—even if your boss doesn’t speak your language.
Remember
You’re not alone. Thousands of other Filipinos and migrants have faced the same challenge and they’ve made it through. So can you. Keep learning, keep smiling, and never stop growing.