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Hanan Alfardan
Managing Director at Al Ramsa Institute Dubai - Emirati Arabic Language Instructor
Professional Background
Hanan AlFardan is a distinguished educator, cultural ambassador, and entrepreneur, whose fervent passion for teaching the Emirati dialect and culture has significantly impacted many. As the Managing Director of Al Ramsa Institute for Emirati Dialect and Culture, which she founded, Hanan has transformed the way non-Arabic speakers engage with the Emirati Arabic dialect. Her role encompasses overseeing the institute's operations, which include tailoring educational materials that reflect the rich tapestry of Emirati culture and language. When time permits, Hanan indulges her passion for teaching by conducting classes herself, often enliveling them with traditional gatherings that celebrate Emirati customs, such as the communal mandi cooking sessions.
In her six years of teaching experience, Hanan has impacted the lives of over 1,000 students from diverse backgrounds, equipping them with a deeper understanding of not just the language, but also the culture that colors its use. Her clientele includes prestigious corporate organizations such as Dubai Duty Free, Dubai Holding, SkyDive Dubai, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Dewa, American University of Sharjah, and Dubai Petroleum, showcasing her institute’s reputable standing in the educational landscape.
Hanan's media presence is notable, having been featured across several local and international TV channels including Dubai TV, Emarat TV, Abu Dhabi TV, and publications like Al Bayan, Al Etihad, and Al Khaleej.
Education and Achievements
Hanan AlFardan holds a Master’s degree in International Management and Policy in Education from the British University in Dubai and a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Zayed University. Her academic achievements are complemented by her professional experience, which began as a teacher at Eton Institute in Dubai Knowledge Village, where she developed a robust curriculum for non-Arabic speakers to learn Emirati Arabic.
Her career trajectory also includes a significant tenure with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), spanning seven years, where her contributions were vital in shaping educational policies and fostering cultural understanding. Additionally, her time as a Visiting Scholar in Emirati Arabic and Culture at the American University of Sharjah enriched her expertise and broadened her educational outreach.
Hanan’s commitment to Emirati culture and language is further demonstrated in her successful publications. These include the first dictionary in Emirati Arabic, which has sold over 7,000 copies and has been translated into Korean, Italian, and Chinese. Other notable publications such as ‘700 Phrases and Questions in Emirati Arabic’, ‘Emirati Verbs’, ‘Talk to me in Emirati Arabic’, and ‘Emirati Idiomatic Expressions’ continue to support learners in their journey to master the language.
The introduction of online learning classes at Al Ramsa Institute reflects Hanan’s dedication to accessibility in education, allowing anyone around the globe to learn Emirati Arabic at their own pace.
Conclusion
Hanan AlFardan embodies the spirit of cultural exchange and educational innovation. Her tireless efforts in promoting Emirati dialect and culture through Al Ramsa Institute not only preserve the values and traditions of her homeland but also facilitate a meaningful dialogue between diverse cultures. With a profound understanding of how enriching cultural exploration can enhance the learning experience, Hanan continues to create new opportunities for individuals and organizations alike to connect with the richness of Emirati heritage. Whether through personalized classes or engaging cultural events at the institute, Hanan warmly invites anyone interested in discovering more about Emirati culture or language to reach out and join the enriching experience at Al Ramsa Institute.
