I absolutely loved every hour I spent last year at the Excellence Center, unfortunately it was for a very short time. I studied Arabic with Haya and learned about humanitarian issues facing Palestinians, especially women, from Osama. I had an unusual background in Arabic-- I studied the Levantine dialect in Jordan many years ago and took a semester of Modern Standard Arabic five or six years ago. Haya was able to develop what felt like a curriculum especially for me-- first online and then at the Excellence Center. The Center provides the perfect Palestine experience-- I hope to spend at least two weeks there soon.

I wasn't sure what to expect with the Excellence Centre but I felt so welcomed as soon as I arrived. Rafat is wonderful, considerate, proudly Palestinian, and treats everyone like family. I loved getting to know him and hearing about Palestine. Rafat would also make breakfast for everyone every morning, it was very homey.

Muaz was my teacher for intensive Arabic, as a result, I spent around 3 hours a day with him for 5 days a week and became very fond of him.
He's known for being very funny, but he is also very very compassionate, and as a refugee from Syria incredibly strong. I learned more in 2 weeks with him than I had for an entire year of studying Arabic. I can't really put into words how incredible he is at teaching, he has a gift for it, and the 3-hour classes always felt like 5 minutes. There were times when I used to sit beside the heater because it was warm and he would come sit next to me on the floor and teach me there, no questions asked. Another time when I wanted to try cooking Ful, so he came early in the morning and taught me Arabic whilst cooking with me. He would also always offer to make me tea which is really sweet. The classes are tailored around you. Everyone who works here is so lovely, and I'm going to struggle to find a teacher like Muaz again.

The classes aren't like being in school/university, they are a lot more relaxed and personal, and the time goes by quickly. We took a class going around Halle and meeting Muaz's friend's shop who speaks Arabic and is very funny, we also took a class whilst touring around Leipzig, which was a lot of fun. Rafat also takes everyone out to dinner the day someone is leaving, we went to a beautiful Yemeni restaurant that is hidden away and you can't find it online.

I was really sad to leave the Excellence Centre, I've made so many core memories there.

I spent a really beautiful one month here studying Arabic under the wings of Rafat, Dusan and Muaz who will treat you like family from the minute you arrive. I took the Intensive Course with Muaz, who really cares about your progress, is extremely knowledge about Arabic and knows how to transmit his knowledge, grow your capabilites and make you LOVE Arabic. He, along with Rafat and Dusan, do all in their power to make you feel welcome and in the best environment for learning. Take the jump and come!

I spent a really beautiful one month here studying Arabic under the wings of Rafat, Dusan and Muaz who will treat you like family from the minute you arrive. I took the Intensive Course with Muaz, who really cares about your progress, is extremely knowledge about Arabic and knows how to transmit his knowledge, grow your capabilites and make you LOVE Arabic. He, along with Rafat and Dusan, do all in their power to make you feel welcome and in the best environment for learning. Take the jump and come!

I didn't know what to expect when I arrived at the ECE. I have studied abroad before, and while my previous experience was incredible, I was worried nothing could top it. I was wrong. It was everything I wanted and more.

I stayed for five weeks, which unfortunately flew by much too fast. The Arabic language instruction was perfect, as the classes were small enough to accommodate my level. Every single member of the staff was incredibly kind. Rafat makes great choices in his staff. Breakfast every morning was amazing. Healthy and delicious.

My teachers were not just my teachers; they quickly became my friends. They introduced me to the community in Halle, and I made even more friends. I became especially close to my teacher, Ali, and I have made a lifelong friend with him.

To end my review, I must say, TRY SHAWARMA. It is one of the best dishes ever created.

My three-month stay at the Excellence Center was nothing short of transformative. From the moment I arrived in Halle, I felt warmly welcomed by the staff and other participants. The center’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its commitment to cultural exchange and community engagement, made my time there incredibly enriching.

Language Learning and Cultural Immersion:
One of the highlights of my experience was the Arabic language course. My instructor Muaz was not only knowledgeable but also deeply passionate about sharing his culture, along with the other instructors at the Center. The small class sizes allowed for personalized attention, and the immersive teaching methods made the language come alive. Outside of class, I had countless opportunities to practice with native speakers, which boosted my confidence and fluency.

Cultural Exchange and Social Connections:
The Center also organized a variety of cultural activities, from city tours and museum visits and social events. These activities were not only fun but also gave me a deeper understanding of Arab and German culture and history.

Supportive Environment:
The staff at the Excellence Center were incredibly supportive throughout my stay. They were always available to offer guidance, whether it was related to my projects, language learning, or navigating life in Halle. The friendships I formed with other participants from around the world were another highlight—together, we explored the city, shared our cultures, and supported each other’s learning journeys.

Final Thoughts:
Overall, my three months at the Excellence Center were a life-changing experience. I left with improved language skills, a deeper understanding of cultural diversity, and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you’re looking to learn a new language, volunteer, or simply immerse yourself in a new culture, I highly recommend the Excellence Center. It’s more than just a program—it’s a community that fosters growth, understanding, and lifelong connections.

I spent 8 weeks at the Excellence Centre in Halle. It was my second summer doing an "Arabic Intensive" course. Last summer I was at the University of Wisconsin in Madison: two Arabic intensives, two very different summers. In Madison, the setting was academic: grades, exams, and hours spent at the campus library. In Halle, the setting was full of life. I went to the Excellence Centre to learn Arabic and am so grateful I did. At the Excellence Centre, Arabic is taken out of the textbooks. It's given life, it becomes full of colours, history, and emotions. It's in Halle that I felt, rather than merely knew, why I was learning Arabic. We did use a textbook to learn the grammar and studied the vocab sheets. But, and that's when I learned the most, we also translated songs, played games, made breakfast, and wrote love letters. We carefully listened to Muaz telling us about Al-Andalus, asked him to repeat himself when we got lost in the history or the Arabic. We went to the zoo, museums, coffee shops, and Arab restaurants. We travelled to Leipzig and Berlin. Muaz made Arabic fun, interesting, and beautiful. The Arabic I will learn after the Centre will have its roots in Halle.
At the Excellence Centre, I felt welcomed and encouraged to be part of a community. I have met such caring and brilliant people. Thank you for everything.

I loved studying Arabic in Halle, Germany! It is such a unique experience. Rafat runs the center with care for all of his students. Muaz is a great teacher who makes it fun and challenges you outside your comfort zone. We did fun field trips to local Middle Eastern restaurants and you will find amazing food and people here! I walked away after 3 weeks of study with better Arabic and more confidence to speak it to others. People from all over the world come here, but it was mostly young adults in university studying. Keep that in mind if you are older and joining the program or the housing options here.