Creating An Effective Arabic Language Environment in The Department of Arabic Language Education, University of Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia

The Arabic language, the only Semitic language, has been destined to remain universal due to the revelation of the Holy Qur’an. Learning the language is an aspiration for Muslims, who number about a billion worldwide. Indonesia, the largest country in terms of Muslims, has a significant Muslim population, making teaching the Arabic language in schools and universities necessary. However, students face difficulties in learning the language, particularly in expressing themselves orally in the classical language. This study aims to analyze the linguistic and non-linguistic difficulties faced by students in the Arabic Language Education Department and provide practical solutions to overcome these difficulties. The research uses an inductive method, collecting data through observation, interviews, and documents. The study results include the creation of an Arab environment in the Arabic Language Teaching Department, which relies on integrated strategies. This environment consists of six steps: extracurricular activities, requiring students to speak Arabic while studying, exploring technology for teaching Arabic to non-native speakers, dialogue with native speakers, using the Arabic language booklet, and organizing workshops with Arabic-speaking professors. This artificial environment can be created with strong effort, determination, will, and cooperation between students and teachers to become an effective and influential strategy.