Dubai is a multicultural city where English often acts as the common language between people from diverse backgrounds. Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone adjusting to life in Dubai, strong English skills are essential. However, many learners struggle with repeated errors that affect confidence and communication.
In this article, we’ll look at the top 10 common mistakes English learners make in Dubai, why they happen, and how to fix them. By recognizing these issues, you’ll be able to speak more naturally and professionally.
1. Confusing “He/She” and “His/Her”
Because Dubai is home to Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, and other language speakers, learners often mix up pronouns. A common error is saying “She is my brother” 或 “His name is Aisha.”
Why it happens: Many native languages do not use gender-specific pronouns.
How to fix it: Practice short sentences focusing on pronouns. Example: He is my father. She is my sister. Repetition and roleplay help in daily practice.
2. Misusing Articles “a,” “an,” and “the”
Sentences like “I went to the Dubai Mall yesterday” may become “I went to Dubai Mall yesterday,” while others overuse articles: “She is an doctor.”
Why it happens: Articles don’t exist in many other languages.
How to fix it: 请记住
- “a/an” for general items (a pen, an apple).
- “the” for specific or unique items (the sun, the Burj Khalifa).
3. Wrong Tense Usage
Learners often say: “I am living in Dubai since 2020” instead of “I have been living in Dubai since 2020.”
Why it happens: Direct translations from native languages don’t match English grammar rules.
How to fix it: Pay attention to time markers:
- Since/for → present perfect continuous
- Yesterday/last year → past tense
4. Pronunciation of “V” and “W”
A very common problem is pronouncing “very” as “wery” 或 “west” as “vest.”
Why it happens: Many learners’ first languages don’t separate these sounds.
How to fix it: Place your teeth on your lower lip for “V” and round your lips for “W.” Practice with pairs: vest–west, vine–wine.
5. Direct Translations from Native Language
Expressions like “Close the light” instead of “Turn off the light” 或 “Open the TV” instead of “Switch on the TV” are common.
Why it happens: Learners translate word-for-word from their mother tongue.
How to fix it: Learn phrases as chunks, not word by word. Practice collocations like “make a mistake,” “take a decision,” “catch a bus.”
6. Overusing “Will” for Future
Learners say: “I will go to the mall tomorrow if it will not rain.” The second “will” is wrong.
Why it happens: Many think future tense always requires “will.”
How to fix it: In conditional sentences, use present tense after if:
- If it rains, I will stay home.
7. Plural and Countable/Uncountable Mistakes
Examples: “She gave me an advice” 或 “Furnitures are expensive.”
Why it happens: Learners apply plural rules to all words.
How to fix it: Memorize uncountable nouns like advice, furniture, information, equipment. Use phrases: “a piece of advice,” “two items of furniture.”
8. Using Wrong Prepositions
Saying “discuss about,” “married with,” 或 “angry on him” are common mistakes in Dubai classrooms.
How to fix it: Prepositions must be learned case by case:
- Correct: “discuss something,” “married to,” “angry with someone.”
9. Adding Extra Words
Learners often say: “Where you are going?” instead of “Where are you going?” 或 “He don’t know nothing.”
Why it happens: Influence of mother tongue sentence structures.
How to fix it: Focus on word order (Subject → Verb → Object). For negatives, use only one negative word: “He doesn’t know anything.”
10. Overusing Local English Phrases
In Dubai’s workplaces, many learners pick up “local English” such as “Do the needful” 或 “Revert back.” While understood, they sound old-fashioned in global settings.
How to fix it: Replace with modern phrases:
- “Please take necessary action” instead of “Do the needful.”
- “Please reply” instead of “Revert back.”
Tips to Avoid These Mistakes
- Read daily: English newspapers like Gulf News 或 Khaleej Times.
- Practice speaking: Join English conversation clubs in Dubai.
- Watch and listen: English podcasts, YouTube lessons, and movies.
- Take feedback: Ask teachers or friends to correct your errors.
- Enroll in courses: Language institutes in Dubai offer structured programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why do English learners in Dubai make common grammar mistakes?
Many learners in Dubai speak Arabic, Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, or other languages as their mother tongue. These languages have different grammar structures, so when learners translate directly into English, errors occur.
2. How can I quickly improve my spoken English in Dubai?
The best way is to practice daily conversations. Join English-speaking clubs, attend workshops, or take lessons from local institutes. Watching English news channels like BBC or reading Gulf News also helps.
3. What are the hardest English mistakes to correct for Dubai learners?
The most difficult issues are pronunciation of V 和 W, article usage (a, an, the), and tense consistency. These require daily practice and guidance from teachers or mentors.
4. Are Dubai English mistakes the same as mistakes in other countries?
Some errors (like pronoun misuse or direct translation) are common worldwide. But in Dubai, specific “local English” phrases such as “Do the needful” 或 “Revert back” are more common due to workplace influence.
5. Can I learn English in Dubai without joining a class?
Yes. You can self-learn through online apps, YouTube channels, and practice with colleagues or friends. However, structured classes in Dubai language centers provide faster improvement because they include correction and feedback.
6. How long does it take to become fluent in English in Dubai?
It depends on your starting level and effort. With daily practice, many learners improve their fluency within 6–12 months. Consistency, confidence, and exposure are key.
7. Which English tests can I prepare for in Dubai?
If you need certification, you can prepare for IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE exams. These tests are widely recognized and useful for academic and professional purposes.
结论
Improving English in Dubai is not just about grammar—it’s about confidence and cultural adaptation. By identifying these top 10 common English mistakes, learners can communicate better at work, in studies, and in daily life.
With Dubai being a hub of international business, clear English skills can open doors to career growth and social success. The more you practice and focus on real-life usage, the faster you’ll overcome these challenges.
