The Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) in Doha has successfully concluded the first batch of its Arabic upskilling initiative for Indian expatriate workers and job seekers. Over 20 participants completed the three-month training programme to improve their daily communication skills.
The 'Spoken Arabic – Beginner Level' programme was launched in June 2026.
Certificates were awarded during a closing ceremony held at the ICBF Kanjani Hall on September 8, 2026. The course focused on practical communication skills for workplaces, hospitals, government offices, and daily interactions. ICBF Acting President Rasheed Ahmed stated that basic Arabic proficiency increases the confidence and effectiveness of expatriates when interacting with the local community, supervisors, and customers.
The training was led by Faisal Niyas Hudavi, with coordination by Managing Committee members Mini Siby and Shankar Goud, and support from General Secretary Deepak Shetty and Secretary Jafar Thayyil. According to a September 7 report by Qatar Tribune, the programme aims to provide a competitive advantage to Indians in sectors such as retail, hospitality, transport, healthcare support, and customer service. With approximately 830,000 Indians residing in Qatar, the ICBF intends to expand its skill-development offerings. Specific details regarding future batches, including registration dates, fees, and seat counts, have not yet been announced. The organization has urged interested individuals to monitor official ICBF channels rather than unofficial sources.
The ICBF office is located at the Integrated Indian Community Center Building, Villa No. 47, Ibn Al Mustawfi Street, Nuaija, Doha. Office hours are Saturday through Thursday, 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM; it remains closed on Fridays. The helpdesk can be reached at 77867794 or 44670060. For labour-related disputes or consular emergencies, the Embassy of India, Doha, provides dedicated channels, including 55097295 for labour emergencies, 55647502 for consular emergencies, and 44953500 for the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra Qatar.
