Abu Nour Institute?

[Sunni_Student786]

As salaamu alaykum.

Does anyone have any in depth information regarding Abu Nour institute in terms of subjects taught, what schools of fiqh can be studied there, what texts they study, the orthodoxy of the teachers, etc., or any other information that may be relevant for one wishing to find an institute to study various Islamic sciences in Syria?

If so, please supply that info.

Jazakallahu Khair.

Wa'salaam.

[Abul Hasan]

As salaamu alaykum.

Does anyone have any in depth information regarding Abu Nour institute in terms of subjects taught, what schools of fiqh can be studied there, what texts they study, the orthodoxy of the teachers, etc., or any other information that may be relevant for one wishing to find an institute to study various Islamic sciences in Syria?

If so, please supply that info.

Jazakallahu Khair.

Wa'salaam.

:salam:

Check this: http://www.abunour.net/english/index.html

They do have an arabic language programme for non-arabs and in fiqh they are mainly Shafi'i. My younger brother went there over 10 years ago, but left disappointed after a few weeks. He then moved on to the Aminiyya Madrasa, then finally Mahad al-Fath al-Islami - probably the best in Damascus for Hanafiyya.

You may like to look here for more info and contacts:

http://groups.msn.com/TheHabaib/learningsyria.msnw

I am not sure if the Syrian regime is currently issuing Visa's for those wanting to study in the named institutes. Check anyway!

Wassalam

[Abul Hasan]

Could people also do the same for Ma'had Al-Fath. Also does anyone have the contact details of this University?


:salam:

Ask here Insha'allah:

http://groups.msn.com/TheHabaib/learningsyria.msnw

[Sunni_Student786]

ttt

[ze leetle elper]

Abu Nur
Arabic Centre, POB 7410, Damascus, Syria
Phone +963.11.2777158, Fax +963.11.2771567

Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Islamic Foundation holds intensive courses for teaching the Arabic language to students aiming at learning the Quran and teaching it.

Private Studies

You can get private lessons according your special wishes. Prices per unit (45 min) will be between 250 (6 USD) to 750 Syrian Pound (18 USD) according to academic and experience level of the teacher. Many Syrians would be happy to find anybody to improve their English/German and teaching Arabic in Exchange without money as well.


Intensive Arabic Language Courses

Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Islamic Foundation holds intensive courses for teaching the Arabic language to students aiming at learning the Quran and teaching it.

- Each course consists of five successive eight week levels. Courses begin with the Arabic alphabet (Level 1), and progress to advanced Arabic (Level 5). These courses cover reading, writing, and speaking Arabic.

- Classes are held five days a week for three hours a day. (Saturday to Wednesday, from 2 pm to 5:30 pm including one 30 minute break)

- Students will receive certificates at the end of each level.

- Students are awarded a diploma in Arabic language upon completion of the fifth level.

- Class attendance is mandatory to take the exams.

- The cost for each student is 60 US$ per level. The Al-Anssar Charitable Society covers the remaining expenses.

- Accommodations (lodging & food) are provided when space is available in the dormitories.

- Families must provide for their own housing.

- The cost for renting an apartment in Damascus is approximately 100-200 US$ every month. Estimated food expenses for one person are 80 US$ a month.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

While I was in Damascus, I was staying close by to Abu Nur University, and some of my friends were studying there. They commended the teaching of the Arabic course and felt they benefited immensly from it.

Personally, I had private lessons with a brother from the Midlands, but he has been living in Syria for a long time now. His name is Abdul Karim, he lives halfway up Qasee'on, just by Masjid al-Taqwa and taught for free :mrgreen: If there are particular texts you are interested in learning, he may be able to accomodate to suit your requirements.

I don't know about the quality of the Arabic courses at the University of Damascus, but I did do a Calligraphy course there-- and regardless of the excellence of the teaching, I found the environment disturbingly Westernized.

As I posted above: Many Syrians would be happy to find anybody to improve their English/German and teaching Arabic in Exchange without money as well So if its basic Arabic you are after...this is definately the best route :cheesygri

The pros of Abu Nur is that accomodation is free for students, maybe a small charge is payable now-- when I left they were halfway through building new halls for the students. I think students get free medical as well, as well as LOADS of discounts in various stores (I even used my *student* label to get discount on my milk/bread LOL )

As for the cost of renting an apartment, well we were 4 of us sharing with 2 huge bedrooms, a living area, bathroom (with an english toilet PHEW) and a kitchen. That cost us just over £100 quid a month(ALTOGHETHER not each :lol: ), and included all electricity and water bills.

And this post has digressed so I'll stop.

[Abul Hasan]

4 year takhassuss programme- Really intensive stuff. Arabic needs to be top. Even the arabs fail this course. No british person has graduated from this course as of now. Last year of stufy is affiliated with Al-azhar, egypt-therefore you'll recieve a certificate, degree, whatever which is recognised/applicable to the west . Only one exam at the end of the year. All depends on the individual, I guess.

Oh yeh, 6 year programmes free but takhassuss you gota pay for.

:salam:

Akhi Yusuf, just a little correction... My brother did graduate from the Takhassus programme at Mahad al-Fath al Islami in 1998, and also received Ijaza in fiqh from al-Azhar in the same year. He also received Ijaza to transmit Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Shama'il al-Muhammadiyya and Muwatta Imam Malik from Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi...

I don't know of anyone else from the UK who has Ijaza from the above named Mahad. Allahu a'lam

Wassalam

[Ibn Umaysh]

Asalamu alaikum

Sorry to switch the topic quickly, but Ibn Ayyub, is there a reference your signature quote for me on faqi and sufi please?

[Sunni_Student786]

So Ma'had Al Fatah only teaches Hanafi fiqh? Or do they also teach some of the other Islamic sciences? If so, which ones?

And would it be possible for some brother who has more info about this institution to provide a list of the books and such used by them in their various programs?

[faqir]

Imam Zaid Shakir studied at Abu Noor didn't he?

[Abul Hasan]

Imam Zaid Shakir studied at Abu Noor didn't he?


YES.

[cotton]

^^
For how many years did Imam Zaid study there?

[ibn ayyub]

Does anyone have any information on what books are taught there?

[Sunni_Student786]

That was a part of my initial question as well.

[ammardiwan]

I was wondering if Abu Nour allows foreigners right now. Any help would be appreciated.

[MRahman]

I was wondering if Abu Nour allows foreigners right now. Any help would be appreciated.

Salaam, Abi nour has different departments, firstly for Arabic Language Intensive, they have 7 levels, each level requires 2 months of studies and then a test. The last level if im correct moves onto to adabi books like kalila wa dimna etc. The books go upto Book 6 (i think), all of which is in-house they produce their own books. Now this course can be joined at anytime, but need to pay for full level, which is £30-£40. Summer time studies for arabic is a bit laid back in my opinion, unfortunately i did not experience studying there during other periods.

For just arabic language, you are required to sit an entry test to determine which level you are at (it's quite easy).

Now, this maybe something new, but there is a course known as the tasheel course in Abi Nour, this may be an introductory course for actual shariah course, which sorts out any language problems, as there is an entry test for the Shariah programme.

In regards to which books are covered, i will try and get back to you with names.

[MRahman]

Also, In regards to studying Arabic Language, I think Damascus Uni is good, from the angle of teaching methods/resources. However, it is a bit steep financially- to be exact £100, also the enviroment is really bad, when i mean bad, i mean dont even think about enrolling on your own, the best would be, if you plan to study in the uni, is if you find someone else who intends to enroll, and stick together.

Some may dis-approve of studies in damascus uni, but their methods are excellent, and you learn alot, best would be to study in abi nour and the uni together, though this can be only done if you are studying level 6 or higher in Abi nour, as these lessons are held after lessons of damascus uni lessons.

Hope this helps!

[naav]

Salaam. Could anyone please help with the following.

Regarding the one-year arabic intensive programme at Abi Nour.

Is there anyone out there who began the programme with no arabic (I can read arabic) that could tell me what level of arabic they were at by the end of it e.g. could they converse in arabic; could they study arabic texts with teachers via the medium of arabic?

Thank you very much, wassalaamu'alaikum. :)

[Brazilian Convert]

as salamu alaikom
Does anyone knows if the ITALIS course at Abu Nour give ijaza?

[Brazilian Convert]

as salamu alaikom.
I plan to go next year to Syria to study there, insha Allah. But I have heard that since the last bombings in Syria the situation for foreigner studants worsened, and some insitutes are no more accepting foreign studants. Is this true?

[Nawawi619]

^^
For how many years did Imam Zaid study there?

As Salamu Alaykum



I'm not sure but he did graduate from there. In his bios it says he graduated from Abu Nour, so I'm assuming 4 years or more maybe a max of 10 years. But I'm thinking at least 4 years.


Wa Llahu Alim

[onetinywish]

Assalamu alaikum

My husband and I just returned from a week long trip from Damascus and we visited Madhal Fath and they are definetly not taking in any foreign students. I've heard this about Abu Nour but from a secondary source so not sure.

ws

[Brazilian Convert]

as salamu alaikom
Just when I decide to go there, something like this happens...
Do you think they could be open for foreign studants in 2009?
I also ask for you brothers and sisters to allow me to go to Syria next year, insha Allah

[onetinywish]

:salam:

We actually met a Brazilian brother there. We have his details so will keep in touch with him and i'm sure he will update us of the situation there. Our Ustadh for whom we visited the institute (he wishes to send his son there) was unpeturbed and said soon Allah will open up its doors again so, Allah hu alim, inshaallah things might get better. Just keep making duah.

ws

[Brazilian Convert]

Wa alaikom salam sister onetinywish!
Thank you very much, it make me feel better to know that there is some chances that Syria will re-open for foreigner students soon!
Is the Brazilian you met there called Musa El-Zaitun? If it is, so I know him (not personaly, just in the internet)

[onetinywish]

ws

you know I have a feeling it is, will check tomorrow inshaallah. A small world this surely is alhamdulillah!

ws

[shaimaa]

I don't understand why this is happening, is it a political issue?

[Brazilian Convert]

Yes it is political. Some bombings occured in Syria, and since then it seens that the government is persecuting foreigners.
I have also heard that the Government have took control of Maahad Al-Fatih. Can someone confirm or deny this?

[onetinywish]

:salam:

Brazilian Convert: Sorry for not getting back to you. Yes the brother we met is the same one you know and he is studying at Madhal fath so should be able to confirm your findings.

ws

[Brazilian Convert]

Wa alaikom salam
No problem, sister!
Actualy is was brother Musa who told me that, I just wanted another source to confirm.
I would me more interested in studying at Abu Nour, so I sente then an e-mail enquiring if in 2009 thay will be accepting foreigners. They just sent me a table with adimissions dates for theyr foreigners programs, from the last half of this year and the first half of 2009. It confused me, if they arent accepting foreigners, why they sent me such information?

[Rabbits]

As-Salamu Alaikum,

But aren't they into inter-faith though?

as-Salamu Alaikum

[shaimaa]

Ok thanks BC - so if you're a muslim and you want to study in Syria, its a no go zone...khair inshaAllah.

Maybe Allah swt is protecting things there that we have no knowledge about when we're so far away, khair inshaAllah.

[onetinywish]

Wa alaikom salam
No problem, sister!
Actualy is was brother Musa who told me that, I just wanted another source to confirm.
I would me more interested in studying at Abu Nour, so I sente then an e-mail enquiring if in 2009 thay will be accepting foreigners. They just sent me a table with adimissions dates for theyr foreigners programs, from the last half of this year and the first half of 2009. It confused me, if they arent accepting foreigners, why they sent me such information?

:salam:

Maybe it's a hint that things will be looking up inshaallah. Have hope in Allah, he will make way for you inshaallah. I cant see how I can go with my family but Allah is the best of all planners so inshaallah, one day.... :)

ws

[dachande71787]

Umm the website of abo nour in the beginning of this thread does not work. Can you guys please direct me to more info on this school please

[Brazilian Convert]

As salamu alaikom
Dachande, Abu Nour website is this one: www.abunour.net/
Sister onetinywish: I hope so, insha Allah next year or in 2010 they will be open again. But every news that reach me from Syria makes me very pessimistic. For exemplo, the government says they caught the authors of the bombings that lead to this persecution: all three were foreigners studying at Mahad Al-Fatih, they say...
But I will not lose my hopes. Please make du´a that things will be better in 2009!

[onetinywish]

:salam:

Are you sure about that as according to official news they say they found 10 members of the group Fatah al Islam responsible (they are based north of Lebanon) - could your source have gotten confused over the names?

ws

[Brazilian Convert]

Well, my source explicitly told me that 3 of then studied at Al-Fatih insitute.

[onetinywish]

Well, my source explicitly told me that 3 of then studied at Al-Fatih insitute.

:salam:

ah, ok. Well let's hope that things get better inshaallah - It's a wonderful place Damascus, I really do hope we all get to go there soon inshaallah, ameen.
ws

[Brazilian Convert]

Ameen, sister.
Next week a sheik I know will be going to Lebanon and will try to get on Syria. If he manages to do it, he will go to the Maahads tehre to clarify this problems

[slaveinneedofmercy]

Assalam Walaikum Brothers and Sisters in Islam

I am very much intrested in studying Arabic and Islamic studies in Damascus and of all the institutions I have looked at Abu Nour would be my favourite.
I would ideally like to study in 2010 inshallah but may visit Syria next year inshallah to see the place, abu nour etc.
I am very much intrested in the ITALIS 3 year program, please can someone tell me what are the entry requiremnts to get on this program.
You help is very much appreciated.

Jazakallah Khair
Salaam

[Brazilian Convert]

Wa alaikom salam brother.
The first thing you must do to be accepted in Abu Nour is to make lot of dua for Syria begins to accept foreigners students again, as they currently are not accepting.
Then you have to fill the requeriment (they send it to you by e-mail). You have to be at Damascus at least at 15 September to make the adimission tests to see in wich year you will enter (arabic teste, quran...).
Insha Allah we will met each other there next year or in 2010!

[slaveinneedofmercy]

Assalam Walikum brothers and sisters
Assalam Walikum Brazilian convert for your reply, I have done some background reasearch and they said that obviously they will not accept anyone for this year couse which started in October 2008 but they are not sure if they will be accepting students in December 16th 2008 course, I'm not sure if they are not accepting foreign students because of political reasons or if they need a certain amount of students to start a course.
I am intrested in the ITALIS program but I don't know if I have to take the test but anyway I want to start in year one bacause I only speak a few words of Arabic but can read the Qur'an alhumdullilah but tajweed (the art of pronoucing is very poor)
One thing which really confused me was if you study in Syria for one year or more you will need to bring a secondary school education certificate (high school diploma) which muct be certified and endores by authorities of their relevant country and by the Syrian embassy located in their country. What Certificate they are talking about, Allahu Alim!
I hope they do take foreign students, Make dua inshallah my heart will burst if I won't be able to study this beautiful religion. Be optimistic brazilian convert and others who are considering studing in Islmaic lands, if our intentions are sincere I am sure Allah SWT will find a way on what we what to do as Allah SWT can do anything.
To be realistic I will study in October 2010 and Allah knows best so I will meet you there inshallah.
May Allah SWT unite our hearts and hearts of ALL of the Muslims.

[Brazilian Convert]

Wa alaikom salam brother slaveinneedofmercy. They sent me the same information, they won´t take foreigners this year, but asked me to keep in contact because they may back to accept foreigners at some point in the future.
Thay are not accepting us because of political reasons. Is is said that some of the bombers that attacked Damascus last September where studying at Maahad Al-Fatih Al-Islamyiah, so the government is banning all foreigners students they can. Some have already been expeled from there.
This certificate is the one you recive when you finish your schools. It must contain that you have concluded your studies, and also must contain all your grades. I do not know how it is in your contry, but here in Brazil we have this kind of certificate. Ask your school if they have something similar.
Unfortunately I am not very optimistc, and at every news I receive from there, I get more and more pessimistic - and frustrated too... I realy want to study in Syria, and had the oportunity last year but I was too stupid and refused it...

[London786]

My dear brother brazilian convert. Let me say one thing. Go to daruloom zakariya or caperdown it is better for you. Trust me ask mufti husain he knows syria. I know abu nour and trust me its not all that. If open mockery of sunnah is what u want then by all means go there. If you want to hear praise of the government go there. If you want to be told that the nasiris are muslims then go there. If you want to get married to some good looking syrian sister than go there. But if you want true deen then stay away. If you want to go there to pick up arabic vocab then you can do it there. But true learning of deen can never happen there. The true barakah is in the deobandi tradition. Look at the arab world it is a mess. Syria does have blessed awliya but for true study its not the place.

[slaveinneedofmercy]

Assalam Walaikum
To Brazilian convert, I am with you I find it silly that all foreign students are being punished so make dua and lots of it as it changed destiny. I understand the certificate issue, I have mine at home.
Don't worry what happened last year, Allah SWT knows the best for everybody and I am sure Allah SWT will find a way for us to study.
To London 786 how do you know Abu Nour is not all that have you studied there? Where is daruloom zakariya or caperdown? The arab world maybe a mess but other nations are not far off. True barakah is not in blind following in the deobandi school of thought but the authentic sunnah. Allahu Alim
Wasalam

[London786]

brother slaveinneed my friends have studied there. I have been there. Ask mufti husain and the thread is mentioned by sister waafia in the other thread about mahad al fath. Mahad al fath is way better than abu nour. Trust me the amount of sunnah u see in deobandis is far higher than abu nour. I'm not a deobandi blindfollower. I follow the sunnah. Alhamdullillah I've traveelled a lot met a lot of people and trust me in the arab world the only thing going up is the salafi dawah. As I mentioned in my answer in the mahad al fath thread there is not a single institute to the best of my knowledge that does the sihah sitta with a sanad in full in damascus. Now can anyone prove me wrong in this???????????

Anyway the time will come inshallah and we hope when syria will once again be a centre of knowledge and islam/ But defiitely it is not like that today with the kuffar alawi government.

[slaveinneedofmercy]

Assalam walaikum Brazilian convert,

The situation in Syria is not so good, I heard its banning of all foreign students whereas Abu Nour is banning long beards and niqaabs, I got this information from third hand so can't verify it, Allahu Alim.
Its not the first time this situation has happened, in 2004 it banned all foreign students and later relaxed the ban so maybe after they have carried out their investigations into the bombings they will later relax the ban.
Abu Nour expelled a number of turks in 2004 because they have some involment in Turkey. As for the situation today some are saying that even forign students enrolled in 2008 have been told to leave the country but can't verify this information.
We can only hope that the situation improve.

Wasalam

[slaveinneedofmercy]

Assalam walaikum brothers and sisters,

I have some first hand information on Abu Nour and Syria, I met an old time brother in the UK who had studied in Abu Nour and he told me all foriegn students are bannd for this year and he tried to return to Syria after this year's ramadhan but was refused entry.
Sorry to be this bearer of sad news.

Wasalam

[Brazilian Convert]

As salamu alaikom
Indeed, those are such sad news... lets make dua for things improve in Syria in the near future!
I will try to get in contact with a sheik I know that would try to get in syria before hajj, but I doubt he will have much diferent news...

[hayat84]

:salam:

I've read that abu nour is open again for foreign students can anyone confirm this, was planning to go next year inshallah

[SyrianSchwarma]

Assalaam Alaikum,

Just to give you an update, starting from Wed 17th till Mon 22rd, registeration is open at Abu Nour for the language program, the classes starts on Tuesday.
Unfortunately I've been informed by the staff that the language course will only accept students who were previously registered at the institute this year.
I cannot say if this is the same for the Shariah program.
If there are any new updates I'll let you know.

**update:
The classes are open for registeration for new students as well, all they require is for you to leave your beard at the door ;)

Disclaimer: All information given is correct at time of writing, but as always the case in Syria anything can change within hours/days...

[Mohammed47]

Assalamu Alaikoum Wr Wb Brothers and Sisters,


How are you all? Alhamdulillah.


I see that the last post in this thread is already half year ago. Masha'Allah.


How is the situation now in Syria? Does anyone has news?


JazzakAllahu Khayran.


Assalamu Alaikoum Wr Wb,


Mohammed

[SyrianSchwarma]

Assalamu Alaikoum,

The situation in Syria is pretty much the same as before, classes in Abu Nour are running as normal with things being slightly relaxed on the 'beard issue'.
Although whether you want to attend Abu Nour is another thing altogether, since starting level 1 to 5, the quality of students attending Abu Nour and the Teacher's has gotten worse as I've progressed. Only one teacher, in level 4, was any good. I for one won't be attending the 6th level and will probably go attend the language course at Mezzah or Damascus University.
If you need further details on Abu Nour give me a pm :)

Assalamu Alaikoum.

[Mohammed47]

Wa Alaikoum Assalaam Wr Wb,


JazzakAllahu Khayran. Unfortunately i cannot PM you. Just want to know after how many years studying there you could make it to become Imam?

ps the teaching in general is ok there or not? And do they give you Ijazza which you can use for teaching after InshAllah?

[SyrianSchwarma]

I'm sorry, not sure on how long it takes to become an Imam, but I am certain Abu Nour doesn't give an Ijazza, they give you a piece of paper to say you passed each end of level exams only.
I know this because I am aware of a lot of students who chose to go to the Mezza Language Institute and Damascus University for this specific reason.

ps: The teaching is pretty sub-standard compared to western standards, as me and other students are used to.
Common complaints me and other students talk about:
Teachers turning up late and sometimes not at all.
Lessons being cut short for silly reasons..
Teachers constantly offering their services to tutor you out of lessons, for money of course...:rolleyes:
Teachers not explaining the lessons properly
Teachers having no control of classroom with constant disruption in the class by students.
Theres a lot more but I really don't want to go into it further...
I would recommend Mezza or Damascus University, after Level 5 I will be going to Damascus University.

[Mohammed47]

And for the other institutes. Is it easy to be accepted there or do they ask you for your education you have had before and more requirements?
But i heard that with Abu Nour you can become Imam after? Is that true?


Assalamu Alaikoum

[SyrianSchwarma]

And for the other institutes. Is it easy to be accepted there or do they ask you for your education you have had before and more requirements?
But i heard that with Abu Nour you can become Imam after? Is that true?
Assalamu Alaikoum

Not sure I will have to find out about that.
The other institutes are fairly easy to be accepted, hand in the appropriate documents they require and give them the course fees, there are placement exams of course to find out your level of experience.

[Mohammed47]

Assalamu Alaikoum,

So haha the Abu Nour Institute is not really a recommended place? But you are talking now about Mezza language center. Is it only for Arabic language?
And Brother, sorry to ask, but what does it take to become Imam InshAllah and where can you do this?

Sorry to go maybe little bit offtopic, but people recommend me UK and some say Syria is good. But what do you know about this?


InshAllah you can answer all my questions. JazzakAllahu Khayran.


Assalamu Alaikoum Wr Wb

[SyrianSchwarma]

For me personally I wouldnt recommend Abu Nour.
Yes the Mezza Language Institute/Damascus University is just for the study of the arabic language.
I've been told the Mahad Fatah Islam is the place to study to become an Imam, but the process I'm not sure.
For everyone thinking about coming to Syria to study, I say come, it's a great country and great place to study.

[Mohammed47]

Assalamu Alaikoum,

How about the Visa for Syria? For example i am Dutch so i have a Dutch passport. Is it easy to stay for longer time in Syria then? Just to finish study or maybe longer. I also heard about the Al Fath institute and do you know how long it takes to study for becoming an Imam? 3 years? Longer?


Sorry to go little bit off topic, but do you also know something about Jordan?


JazzakAllahu Khayran.

[SyrianSchwarma]

Getting a visa shouldn't be a problem, if your going to Abu Nour they won't give you an Iqama to stay for a long period of time, so maximum you will probably get is the 3 months on your normal visa, and at the end of those 3 months you will need to renew your visa or try to get an Iqama at the Immigration office.
Renewing your visa usually means heading to the border (Jordan/Lebanon) entering for a few hours/day or two max then coming back into Syria, Lebanon is the preferred choice since it's closer than Jordan.
Mezza Institute and Damascus University give you an Iqama on their language courses, I'm not sure at Al-Fatah.
Because the situation in Syria is constantly changing there is a chance that while doing the Sharia course in Syria anything could happen that could cause you to leave the country, and if that happens you can't pick up from where you left off if you come back at a later date. Because of things changing all the time, some students have chosen to just do the language course in Syria and do the long term Sharia course in Jordan or Yemen and other places.
I'm not familiar with Institutes in Jordan but I have been there a few times and its a very pleasant place and more in common with western countries than Syria.

[Mohammed47]

JazzakAllahu Khayran.

But the Shariah course in Yemen (Dar al Mustafa) is a good option?

It is really difficult to choose, because there are so many options.

And as i do not have lot of money, i have to be carefull where i will travel to.
Maybe Syria for learning Arabic? I also saw Qasid in Jordan, but little bit expensive there.

And Abu Nour has a good way of teaching Arabic? Maybe to study Arabic for a year there and then moving to countries to study the Shariah course?

But then you have the Visa. It is like in Morocco. 3 months and after you go out of the country and go back in again.

But for the Visa; Is it also with the Arabic course in Abu Nour that they don't give you Visa for a year for example? And if you want to follow only Arabic course fulltime at Abu Nour, do they give you accomodation or not? I did send them an e-mail but they told me it is all under the supervision of Awqaf in Syria.

[Muaz bin jabal]

:salam:

It's real nice to see that you wanna study deen. But until you do find out where you want to go, why don't you get started with your arabic at www.shariahprogram.com ..you'll have to learn it somehwere..might aswell get a head start..

Just a thougth ....

[Mohammed47]

Wa Alaikoum Assalaam Wr Wb,


JazzakAllahu Khayran. Ameen.
Do you know something about Abu Nour?
Their way of teaching Arabic, the place to stay, the cost to study there, etc.



Assalamu Alaikoum Wr Wb,


Mohammed

[amatulahad]

as-salamu aleikum
I visited abu nour in February where I was told that it wasn’t a problem for me to study there, however I just contacted them and now they are giving different information! Those of you who study there, what’s the current situation? it seems to me as if it changes every week. Brother SyrianSchwarma could you give an update if possible

[amatulahad]

Wa Alaikoum Assalaam Wr Wb,


JazzakAllahu Khayran. Ameen.
Do you know something about Abu Nour?
Their way of teaching Arabic, the place to stay, the cost to study there, etc.



Assalamu Alaikoum Wr Wb,


Mohammed

wa aleikum as-salaam

The school have "dorms" where you can stay, it's mush cheaper than renting an apartment or similar. It's around €51; board and lodging.

[SyrianSchwarma]

As i've said in a previous post, the situation in syria can change at a moments notice.
For language course Syria is the best place to be in terms of schools, people, costs etc.
In regards to Abu Nour, the situation has changed, again, and possibly for the worse if the rumors are true.
Abu Nour could be closing in a few months for foreigners, this is a rumor that has been talked about before around 3-4 months ago. The rumor is they will be closing Abu Nour for language studies and keep it open for sharia studies and opening a special school specifically for foreigners, the reasons for this are speculative but the students here have a general idea why.
Brothers please don't take this as 100%, Insha-allah this won't happen and the school stays open.


wa aleikum as-salaam

The school have "dorms" where you can stay, it's mush cheaper than renting an apartment or similar. It's around €51; board and lodging.

Yes there are dorms available but not recommended, it is more advantageous if you rent with other students to share the costs and to study arabic with. In the long run, this is a better option than using dorms, and not that more expensive if you share with 2+ students.

If there are any other questions I will try to answer them to the best of my abilities and as soon as possible.

[madmax786]

As i've said in a previous post, the situation in syria can change at a moments notice.
For language course Syria is the best place to be in terms of schools, people, costs etc.
In regards to Abu Nour, the situation has changed, again, and possibly for the worse if the rumors are true.
Abu Nour could be closing in a few months for foreigners, this is a rumor that has been talked about before around 3-4 months ago. The rumor is they will be closing Abu Nour for language studies and keep it open for sharia studies and opening a special school specifically for foreigners, the reasons for this are speculative but the students here have a general idea why.
Brothers please don't take this as 100%, Insha-allah this won't happen and the school stays open.



Yes there are dorms available but not recommended, it is more advantageous if you rent with other students to share the costs and to study arabic with. In the long run, this is a better option than using dorms, and not that more expensive if you share with 2+ students.

If there are any other questions I will try to answer them to the best of my abilities and as soon as possible.


Salam

I need to contact you by pm but I am unable to do so. It is regarding dimashq, please provide me with your email or so on.

ma salam

[SyrianSchwarma]

Salam

I need to contact you by pm but I am unable to do so. It is regarding dimashq, please provide me with your email or so on.

ma salam

Hmm private messaging and emailing through the forum seems to have been removed/disabled by the forum admins :( so i think it's not possible to contact me privately..and I'd rather not post my email address on the forum

[madmax786]

Hmm private messaging and emailing through the forum seems to have been removed/disabled by the forum admins :( so i think it's not possible to contact me privately..and I'd rather not post my email address on the forum

Where is the cheapest place to stay in damascus (going to be there for 3 months)?

Where can I learn arabic and what can I achieve in 3 months?

any other tips akhi

[SyrianSchwarma]

Where is the cheapest place to stay in damascus (going to be there for 3 months)?

Where can I learn arabic and what can I achieve in 3 months?

any other tips akhi

Roken el-deen is a popular place for students as its cheap (depending which part and what estate agent you use), abu nour is close by within walking distance, there's a big market, book shops, internet cafes and also The Abu Nour Mosque (next to Abu Nour Institute which alot of students go to to study inside), The Shiekh Bhutti and Shiekh Nabilsi Mosque to hear the Khutba's is very good (apologies if I spelt their names wrong).
3 months is very short time, so i'd suggest Damascus University, its very intensive and fast paced course with each level lasting 1 month, learning modern arabic with newspapers, videos, tapes etc.. as teaching aids.
Though there are 2 possible downsides, 1) its the most expensive being 18,000 syp per month and 2) the classes are designed for foreigners so mixed classes with female students is normal there.
What can you achieve? That all depends on how much you put into it. You will greatly benefit more if you go to Damascus Uni (because of your short stay) and complement it with a private tutor and study hard with other students :)
Tip: Try to only speak arabic with your friends, and carry a small notebook to write down new words.

I hope this has helped you.

[madmax786]

Roken el-deen is a popular place for students as its cheap (depending which part and what estate agent you use), abu nour is close by within walking distance, there's a big market, book shops, internet cafes and also The Abu Nour Mosque (next to Abu Nour Institute which alot of students go to to study inside), The Shiekh Bhutti and Shiekh Nabilsi Mosque to hear the Khutba's is very good (apologies if I spelt their names wrong).
3 months is very short time, so i'd suggest Damascus University, its very intensive and fast paced course with each level lasting 1 month, learning modern arabic with newspapers, videos, tapes etc.. as teaching aids.
Though there are 2 possible downsides, 1) its the most expensive being 18,000 syp per month and 2) the classes are designed for foreigners so mixed classes with female students is normal there.
What can you achieve? That all depends on how much you put into it. You will greatly benefit more if you go to Damascus Uni (because of your short stay) and complement it with a private tutor and study hard with other students :)
Tip: Try to only speak arabic with your friends, and carry a small notebook to write down new words.

I hope this has helped you.

Shukran Jazilan Akhi, Will I have any problem because I have full sunnah beard and thowb at all times. How much is the accommodation in Rukn Ud Deen (cheap)?

Is there anything I have to be aware of?

[SyrianSchwarma]

Shukran Jazilan Akhi, Will I have any problem because I have full sunnah beard and thowb at all times. How much is the accommodation in Rukn Ud Deen (cheap)?

Is there anything I have to be aware of?

In Roken El-Deen you wont be out of place, but heading into the centre of the city its fairly modern and you'll hardly see any people wearing thobes.
The beard I don't see you having any issues with that either insha-allah.
Another thing I should mention is if you're with friends, who also have long beards, try not to go out and congregate in big groups, as it will draw attention from the authorities who you don't want to get on the bad side of here ;)

Accommodation all depends on which estate agent you go to..if its one room flat/house, it should cost anywhere between 5,000syp - 8,000syp then there is the fee for the agent which you shouldn't pay more than 2000syp or less.
Ideally you want to find someone to share with.
Also, pay on a month by month basis and not in advance as if anything goes wrong, you're at the mercy of the landlord...

Register with your embassy as soon as possible in case of anything that might go wrong, insha-allah that won't happen.
Before you come here, you might want to open a Halifax account as they don't charge a withdrawal fee (last time i checked) from cash points in Syria as all the others do (just make sure you let them know you will be traveling to Syria so they don't view the withdrawals as suspicious).
Don't take a taxi from the airport to go anywhere, they charge a ridiculous amount. There is a bus from the airport every 30mins which is cheap, that takes you to 'Brampke' bus station and from there you can go anywhere (also, don't take a taxi from there either, use the buses :) )

I think that covers most stuff...oh, don't talk politics should be a given ;)

[amatulahad]

As i've said in a previous post, the situation in syria can change at a moments notice.
For language course Syria is the best place to be in terms of schools, people, costs etc.
In regards to Abu Nour, the situation has changed, again, and possibly for the worse if the rumors are true.
Abu Nour could be closing in a few months for foreigners, this is a rumor that has been talked about before around 3-4 months ago. The rumor is they will be closing Abu Nour for language studies and keep it open for sharia studies and opening a special school specifically for foreigners, the reasons for this are speculative but the students here have a general idea why.
Brothers please don't take this as 100%, Insha-allah this won't happen and the school stays open.



Yes there are dorms available but not recommended, it is more advantageous if you rent with other students to share the costs and to study arabic with. In the long run, this is a better option than using dorms, and not that more expensive if you share with 2+ students.

If there are any other questions I will try to answer them to the best of my abilities and as soon as possible.

assalaamu aleikum, not recommended, why? I just received a mail from a sister who recently left Damascus; according to her abu nour is now officially closing - have you heard anything?

[SyrianSchwarma]

assalaamu aleikum, not recommended, why? I just received a mail from a sister who recently left Damascus; according to her abu nour is now officially closing - have you heard anything?

Not recommended because of stories I've heard of overcrowding, people who aren't students using the dorms, theft and general unsanitary conditions...though I've never seen any of this I have heard this from other students who were in the dorms.

I've not heard anything official but, this was said a few months ago possibly 3-4 months ago and was put down as just rumor, but with the same rumor popping up recently, it can only mean it's going to happen and they have used the time from when it was first heard and now as preparation for setting up the new school..
The original rumor was Abu Nour Language studies will be closed and a new place for foreigners will be opened.

[amatulahad]

Not recommended because of stories I've heard of overcrowding, people who aren't students using the dorms, theft and general unsanitary conditions...though I've never seen any of this I have heard this from other students who were in the dorms.

I've not heard anything official but, this was said a few months ago possibly 3-4 months ago and was put down as just rumor, but with the same rumor popping up recently, it can only mean it's going to happen and they have used the time from when it was first heard and now as preparation for setting up the new school..
The original rumor was Abu Nour Language studies will be closed and a new place for foreigners will be opened.

jazakallahu khayran for the info, i will try to get in contact with the school inshaallah

[abdulHakim]

Assalâmu 'alaykum,


Does anyone have news about the Fathi Institute (Ma'had al-Fath al-Islâmî), if the foreign students are accepted now ?

Thanks.

Wassalâm...

[madmax786]

Latest Updates, All institutions are closing after this dawra which is running now and will finish in 2 months. Only Jami Dimashq and Mahad institute are open but there is free mixing, I know many practicing muslim brothers and sisters going there. In syria things change every minute. But all other mahads like abu noor, mahad al fath etc which I visit are closing but it may open after 6 months, Allah knows best.

There are many brothers with family will cost like 15000 to 20000 liras. living standard is cheap. Live in places like Rokenud Deen, Maza, etc.



Assalâmu 'alaykum,


Does anyone have news about the Fathi Institute (Ma'had al-Fath al-Islâmî), if the foreign students are accepted now ?

Thanks.

Wassalâm...

[amatulahad]

Latest Updates, All institutions are closing after this dawra which is running now and will finish in 2 months. Only Jami Dimashq and Mahad institute are open but there is free mixing, I know many practicing muslim brothers and sisters going there. In syria things change every minute. But all other mahads like abu noor, mahad al fath etc which I visit are closing but it may open after 6 months, Allah knows best.

There are many brothers with family will cost like 15000 to 20000 liras. living standard is cheap. Live in places like Rokenud Deen, Maza, etc.

May I ask, when did you visit abu nour? Did they tell you that they are closing ?

[abudehana]

ttt
My name is Aadil Hassen from Canada and I studied with Abdul Karim I alooking for his email.please get permission from him if I can contact himmy email is [clip - email addresses are not allowed to be posted on the general sections of SF].

[amatulahad]

My name is Aadil Hassen from Canada and I studied with Abdul Karim I alooking for his email.please get permission from him if I can contact himmy email is [clip - email addresses are not allowed to be posted on the general sections of SF].

I have heard about this brother abdulkarim from many, does he teach groups - sisters as well?

Has anyone heard anything new from abu nour or the other schools? A brother from Damascus told me, that one of the teachers told him that they "might" start teaching again next week.

[abudehana]

I have heard about this brother abdulkarim from many, does he teach groups - sisters as well?

Has anyone heard anything new from abu nour or the other schools? A brother from Damascus told me, that one of the teachers told him that they "might" start teaching again next week.

Yes he dies teach private Arabi classes he also wrote a book in Syria.please if anyone had his contact info i'd can direct me to it I will sincerely appreciate it.I see many posts of brothers and sisters who studied there.inshaAllah they might have done info.
JazakAllah khairan

Wasalamu alaykum wrtb
Aadil Hassen

[abudehana]

I have heard about this brother abdulkarim from many, does he teach groups - sisters as well?

Has anyone heard anything new from abu nour or the other schools? A brother from Damascus told me, that one of the teachers told him that they "might" start teaching again next week.

Yes, Abdul Karim does teach classes and he also wrote an Arabic book in Syria. If any of the brothers and sisters knows his contact details it would be appreciated.
A member by zee little helper mentioned his name so Insha'Allah they will be able to direct me to some lead.
Jazak'Allah Khairan
Wasalamu alaykum wrtb
Aadil Hassen(Abu Dehana)

[abudehana]

Abu Nur
Arabic Centre, POB 7410, Damascus, Syria
Phone +963.11.2777158, Fax +963.11.2771567

Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Islamic Foundation holds intensive courses for teaching the Arabic language to students aiming at learning the Quran and teaching it.

Private Studies

You can get private lessons according your special wishes. Prices per unit (45 min) will be between 250 (6 USD) to 750 Syrian Pound (18 USD) according to academic and experience level of the teacher. Many Syrians would be happy to find anybody to improve their English/German and teaching Arabic in Exchange without money as well.


Intensive Arabic Language Courses

Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Islamic Foundation holds intensive courses for teaching the Arabic language to students aiming at learning the Quran and teaching it.

- Each course consists of five successive eight week levels. Courses begin with the Arabic alphabet (Level 1), and progress to advanced Arabic (Level 5). These courses cover reading, writing, and speaking Arabic.

- Classes are held five days a week for three hours a day. (Saturday to Wednesday, from 2 pm to 5:30 pm including one 30 minute break)

- Students will receive certificates at the end of each level.

- Students are awarded a diploma in Arabic language upon completion of the fifth level.

- Class attendance is mandatory to take the exams.

- The cost for each student is 60 US$ per level. The Al-Anssar Charitable Society covers the remaining expenses.

- Accommodations (lodging & food) are provided when space is available in the dormitories.

- Families must provide for their own housing.

- The cost for renting an apartment in Damascus is approximately 100-200 US$ every month. Estimated food expenses for one person are 80 US$ a month.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

While I was in Damascus, I was staying close by to Abu Nur University, and some of my friends were studying there. They commended the teaching of the Arabic course and felt they benefited immensly from it.

Personally, I had private lessons with a brother from the Midlands, but he has been living in Syria for a long time now. His name is Abdul Karim, he lives halfway up Qasee'on, just by Masjid al-Taqwa and taught for free :mrgreen: If there are particular texts you are interested in learning, he may be able to accomodate to suit your requirements.

I don't know about the quality of the Arabic courses at the University of Damascus, but I did do a Calligraphy course there-- and regardless of the excellence of the teaching, I found the environment disturbingly Westernized.

As I posted above: Many Syrians would be happy to find anybody to improve their English/German and teaching Arabic in Exchange without money as well So if its basic Arabic you are after...this is definately the best route :cheesygri

The pros of Abu Nur is that accomodation is free for students, maybe a small charge is payable now-- when I left they were halfway through building new halls for the students. I think students get free medical as well, as well as LOADS of discounts in various stores (I even used my *student* label to get discount on my milk/bread LOL )

As for the cost of renting an apartment, well we were 4 of us sharing with 2 huge bedrooms, a living area, bathroom (with an english toilet PHEW) and a kitchen. That cost us just over £100 quid a month(ALTOGHETHER not each :lol: ), and included all electricity and water bills.

And this post has digressed so I'll stop.

Assalamualaykum wrtb

You have mentioned Abul Karim Morris and was wondering if you have or know someone with his contact info. I studied with him in Syria and have lost contact with him. We spend three years together in Abu Nour Kismu daghli.
Insha'Allah it would be great to be in contact again
Jazak'Allah Khairan
Wasalamu-alaykum wrtb
Aadil Hassen (Abu Dehana min Canada)

[Brazilian Convert]

As salamu alaikum.
Does anyone has news about Abu Nour? Their website is down for more than a month now, I wonder what has happened to then...

[ibn azhari]

Yes,It does, I just asked some one from indonesia in FaceBOOK who studying there,he said ,no problem,But i don't know exactly,i also looking for information for study arabi next year in ma'had al fath,waiting for information from him.

[zehra london]

Abu Nur
Arabic Centre, POB 7410, Damascus, Syria
Phone +963.11.2777158 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting**************+963. 11.2777158******end_of_the_skype_highlighting, Fax +963.11.2771567

Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Islamic Foundation holds intensive courses for teaching the Arabic language to students aiming at learning the Quran and teaching it.

Private Studies

You can get private lessons according your special wishes. Prices per unit (45 min) will be between 250 (6 USD) to 750 Syrian Pound (18 USD) according to academic and experience level of the teacher. Many Syrians would be happy to find anybody to improve their English/German and teaching Arabic in Exchange without money as well.


Intensive Arabic Language Courses

Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Islamic Foundation holds intensive courses for teaching the Arabic language to students aiming at learning the Quran and teaching it.

- Each course consists of five successive eight week levels. Courses begin with the Arabic alphabet (Level 1), and progress to advanced Arabic (Level 5). These courses cover reading, writing, and speaking Arabic.

- Classes are held five days a week for three hours a day. (Saturday to Wednesday, from 2 pm to 5:30 pm including one 30 minute break)

- Students will receive certificates at the end of each level.

- Students are awarded a diploma in Arabic language upon completion of the fifth level.

- Class attendance is mandatory to take the exams.

- The cost for each student is 60 US$ per level. The Al-Anssar Charitable Society covers the remaining expenses.

- Accommodations (lodging & food) are provided when space is available in the dormitories.

- Families must provide for their own housing.

- The cost for renting an apartment in Damascus is approximately 100-200 US$ every month. Estimated food expenses for one person are 80 US$ a month.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

While I was in Damascus, I was staying close by to Abu Nur University, and some of my friends were studying there. They commended the teaching of the Arabic course and felt they benefited immensly from it.

Personally, I had private lessons with a brother from the Midlands, but he has been living in Syria for a long time now. His name is Abdul Karim, he lives halfway up Qasee'on, just by Masjid al-Taqwa and taught for free :mrgreen: If there are particular texts you are interested in learning, he may be able to accomodate to suit your requirements.

I don't know about the quality of the Arabic courses at the University of Damascus, but I did do a Calligraphy course there-- and regardless of the excellence of the teaching, I found the environment disturbingly Westernized.

As I posted above: Many Syrians would be happy to find anybody to improve their English/German and teaching Arabic in Exchange without money as well So if its basic Arabic you are after...this is definately the best route :cheesygri

The pros of Abu Nur is that accomodation is free for students, maybe a small charge is payable now-- when I left they were halfway through building new halls for the students. I think students get free medical as well, as well as LOADS of discounts in various stores (I even used my *student* label to get discount on my milk/bread LOL )

As for the cost of renting an apartment, well we were 4 of us sharing with 2 huge bedrooms, a living area, bathroom (with an english toilet PHEW) and a kitchen. That cost us just over £100 quid a month(ALTOGHETHER not each :lol: ), and included all electricity and water bills.

And this post has digressed so I'll stop.

Assalamu alaikum,
I have applied to go and study arabic at Abu Noor University inshallah, you sound very well informed about it. I have called the University this morning and the administrator said to me to go whenever I want but they don't have any accomodation available. A friend of mine told me that accomodation is quite expensive in syria, is it true?
do you know any website where I can go and check for any possible accomodation before moving?
thanks so much

[AzdAlDin]

Assalamu alaikum,
I have applied to go and study arabic at Abu Noor University inshallah, you sound very well informed about it. I have called the University this morning and the administrator said to me to go whenever I want but they don't have any accomodation available. A friend of mine told me that accomodation is quite expensive in syria, is it true?
do you know any website where I can go and check for any possible accomodation before moving?
thanks so much

Assalamu Alaykum Sister .

I am also interested in attend Abu nour, I was wondering if you could provide me their details, I am not sure if the number is the same as those
supplied in this forum. The other thing i would like to ask is regarding the Visa, do you have to apply for a course in order to obtain a Visa?

Jazakallah Khayran

[Evokee]

Are there any non muslims studying at Abu Nour?

[doomed]

Salam Alaikum unshAllah I'l be in Damascus next month, I attended abu noor for 4 months in 2008/2009 inshAllah I'll get to take a few more arabic classes

Salam Evokee- yes there are non Muslims that attend Abu Noor, most are Muslims but there were a small handful of non Muslims when I went, they were there for the language courses not so much for the religious courses.

Salam AzdalDin - you can no longer get a student visa to study at any Islamic institution in Syria. You can however come to Syria on a visit visa and then change it to a student visa later. Sorry I can't help you with the phone number, but I can tell you that courses start every 2 months or so and it's easy to register, you basically just show up at the office, show your ID and pay your fees...easy.

[siraj.m]

Salam Alaikum unshAllah I'l be in Damascus next month, I attended abu noor for 4 months in 2008/2009 inshAllah I'll get to take a few more arabic classes

Salam Evokee- yes there are non Muslims that attend Abu Noor, most are Muslims but there were a small handful of non Muslims when I went, they were there for the language courses not so much for the religious courses.

Salam AzdalDin - you can no longer get a student visa to study at any Islamic institution in Syria. You can however come to Syria on a visit visa and then change it to a student visa later. Sorry I can't help you with the phone number, but I can tell you that courses start every 2 months or so and it's easy to register, you basically just show up at the office, show your ID and pay your fees...easy.

Inshallah I plan to go to Abu Nour this March so I called them and asked them a whole heap of questions and I just wanted to second your information for those who are reading.

In addition to your information, I don't know what the situation was like a few years ago but according to one of their course managers, they are accepting foreign students.

With accommodation, they offer boarding for 4000 syrian pounds a month ($85 Australian and US) which includes 3 meals, laundry, a place to sleep and who cares what else lol, that's all we need :D

I also asked him about course structure. It is from 8 - 12:30, the first hour, 8-9, being Tajweed. I wonder what people do from dhuhr onwards though?

Sister doomed has covered the visa part.

Their contact details are on their website. www.abunour.net The next intake is March 22, 2011 and every 2 months from there.

Just an end note, I'm only talking about the arabic course. Also, go with an open mind and never ever ever ever ever ever ever EVER talk politics with ANYone.

Salaamualaykum...

[doomed]

Inshallah I plan to go to Abu Nour this March so I called them and asked them a whole heap of questions and I just wanted to second your information for those who are reading.

In addition to your information, I don't know what the situation was like a few years ago but according to one of their course managers, they are accepting foreign students.

With accommodation, they offer boarding for 4000 syrian pounds a month ($85 Australian and US) which includes 3 meals, laundry, a place to sleep and who cares what else lol, that's all we need :D

I also asked him about course structure. It is from 8 - 12:30, the first hour, 8-9, being Tajweed. I wonder what people do from dhuhr onwards though?

Sister doomed has covered the visa part.

Their contact details are on their website. www.abunour.net The next intake is March 22, 2011 and every 2 months from there.

Just an end note, I'm only talking about the arabic course. Also, go with an open mind and never ever ever ever ever ever ever EVER talk politics with ANYone.

Salaamualaykum...

Salam yes I found out a few days ago the next intake is in March....I'm in Damascus right now and have nothing to do until then really. The women's classes might have different times than the men's classes, but I would love to have classes early in the day like that, inshAllah. 4000 SP for boarding is a great deal, rental prices are going up in Damascus so if you need a place to stay that should be it.
FYI not everyone is so paranoid to talk politics, esp if it's about a country other than Syria lol

[siraj.m]

Salam yes I found out a few days ago the next intake is in March....I'm in Damascus right now and have nothing to do until then really. The women's classes might have different times than the men's classes, but I would love to have classes early in the day like that, inshAllah. 4000 SP for boarding is a great deal, rental prices are going up in Damascus so if you need a place to stay that should be it.
FYI not everyone is so paranoid to talk politics, esp if it's about a country other than Syria lol

Wa'alaykum salaam. Yeah im definitely being over paranoid about talking politics haha.

sister, when i called them they told me that boarding wouldn't be a problem... but then a few days later i received a reply to an old email i sent them, saying "sorry no boarding available"....?? so I'm now not sure if there is or not, although my heart is leaning towards the phone call. If you're around abu nour and it's not too much to ask of, can you ask them please??

Jazakallah in advance.

salaams

[doomed]

Wa'alaykum salaam. Yeah im definitely being over paranoid about talking politics haha.

sister, when i called them they told me that boarding wouldn't be a problem... but then a few days later i received a reply to an old email i sent them, saying "sorry no boarding available"....?? so I'm now not sure if there is or not, although my heart is leaning towards the phone call. If you're around abu nour and it's not too much to ask of, can you ask them please??

Jazakallah in advance.

salaams

Salam
I would just call and reconfirm with them, they probably didn't realize that they had already talked to you, they probably thought that email was someone else's. No matter what though it's easy to find housing, someone is always willing to take you in and there are a lot of other brothers here that will help you out, don't worry you will not have to sleep on the street or anything. I'm just curious what country are you coming from and have you ever been to Syria before?

[doomed]

Also if you want to see some pictures of the area of Abu Nour I posted some pictures on my website > syriaandbeyond dot com < the last two pictures in the section called "people and places" shows abu nour in the backround and I have two pictures of Abu Nour in the "arcitecture" section

[siraj.m]

Salam
I would just call and reconfirm with them, they probably didn't realize that they had already talked to you, they probably thought that email was someone else's. No matter what though it's easy to find housing, someone is always willing to take you in and there are a lot of other brothers here that will help you out, don't worry you will not have to sleep on the street or anything. I'm just curious what country are you coming from and have you ever been to Syria before?

I think you're right. I'll give them a call inshallah. Or I can just wing it when I get there.
I'm also paranoid about customs. What was the customs process like? are they really as mean as people say? I'll be going with my cousin and we both have beards. I feel as though they'll give us a hard time because of it.

I'm coming from Melbourne, Australia. Thanks for the pics.

[London786]

Major problems if you have a beard. Whatever you do speak in fleunt english.....don't tell them your country of origin. Don't ever speak in Arabic...not 1 word. Wear some western clothing....Be very careful. Syria is not a safe place and the government hate all islamic people. Just tell them your a sufi who has come to visit the grave of ibnul arabi and the umayyad masjid....ALLAH make it easy ameen. I would be very careful if I was you. Abu Nour is a not a great place. Why don't you try al mahad al fath al islami?

[siraj.m]

Major problems if you have a beard. Whatever you do speak in fleunt english.....don't tell them your country of origin. Don't ever speak in Arabic...not 1 word. Wear some western clothing....Be very careful. Syria is not a safe place and the government hate all islamic people. Just tell them your a sufi who has come to visit the grave of ibnul arabi and the umayyad masjid....ALLAH make it easy ameen. I would be very careful if I was you. Abu Nour is a not a great place. Why don't you try al mahad al fath al islami?

Do you speak from experience? And what do you mean by country of origin, Australia or Lebanon?

Mahad al fath and those aren't taking anyone apparently. I just want to learn Arabic and move on.

[doomed]

I think you're right. I'll give them a call inshallah. Or I can just wing it when I get there.
I'm also paranoid about customs. What was the customs process like? are they really as mean as people say? I'll be going with my cousin and we both have beards. I feel as though they'll give us a hard time because of it.

I'm coming from Melbourne, Australia. Thanks for the pics.

Customs I've heard isn't that great...I'm sorry I'm not able to give you more help, my husband's dad knows people in the airport and we were able to get through no problems. It's not the beards that will give you guys a problem, customs are just jerks, they get nasty with their own beard free citizens. I know this sounds bad and this isn't Islamic at all but if you have Syrian pounds with you give them some (300-500) so they don't check your bags and ask a million questions. Also just thought of this, be prepared to pay about $30 for the taxi ride from the airport, regular taxis aren't allowed to go into the airport so you have to take one of theirs and it's way more expensive than what a regular taxi would charge.

[doomed]

Major problems if you have a beard. Whatever you do speak in fleunt english.....don't tell them your country of origin. Don't ever speak in Arabic...not 1 word. Wear some western clothing....Be very careful. Syria is not a safe place and the government hate all islamic people. Just tell them your a sufi who has come to visit the grave of ibnul arabi and the umayyad masjid....ALLAH make it easy ameen. I would be very careful if I was you. Abu Nour is a not a great place. Why don't you try al mahad al fath al islami?

Umm this is completely untrue, 80% + of Syrians are Muslim, many work for the government or have at one time. Syria is actually a very safe place, you know why because if you do anything wrong you are sent to jail and do you know what Syrian jails are like? I am a female and have no problems leaving the house alone at any time of the day or night. I feel much safer here than my big city in Canada.
London786 I don't know what you are talking about Syria has changed a lot in the past 15-20 years, yes there was a time when religious Muslims were unjustly jailed just for talking to the wrong person at the mosque or dressing a certain way for fear they were part of the Muslim brotherhood. This was a result of a political issues not religious ones.
siraj.m there are Muslims from all over the world that come to Abu Nour (esp central Asia), you will see all kinds of dress and the area here where Abu Nour is is called Rikna'deen, it's a more conservative area so people's dress will reflect that, it's very very common to see men in thobes and women in niqabs and of course you will also see the opposite end of the spectrum too (in more of an Islamic sense). It's OK to tell people where you are from, but don't expect anyone to really know anything about Australia, a lot of people here think that if you speak english you must be American or maybe British. For me the thing that I would worry about most here is people trying to rip you off because they think you are a "rich American" there are certain stores I don't go to because the shop owner has purposefully tried to rip me off, ask about these stores when you meet people in your classes. Also if you take a taxi make sure they run the meter, taxis are very cheap and everywhere in Damascus should cost under 100 Syrian Pounds one way. Syria is a different country and some things are hard to get used to or really understand here but trust me it's far from dangerous.
Salam Alaikum

[siraj.m]

Customs I've heard isn't that great...I'm sorry I'm not able to give you more help, my husband's dad knows people in the airport and we were able to get through no problems. It's not the beards that will give you guys a problem, customs are just jerks, they get nasty with their own beard free citizens. I know this sounds bad and this isn't Islamic at all but if you have Syrian pounds with you give them some (300-500) so they don't check your bags and ask a million questions. Also just thought of this, be prepared to pay about $30 for the taxi ride from the airport, regular taxis aren't allowed to go into the airport so you have to take one of theirs and it's way more expensive than what a regular taxi would charge.

Isn't it a bit awkward bribing someone? I probably wouldn't know how to do that or would want to do that.

Did customs ask you the purpose of your stay? If they ask me lots of questions do i tell them about abu nour?? Or hide my plan to study?

[suleimanibnsalim]

Bribery is often necessary in such circumstances -- trust me! I heard from one Shaykh that we ought to intend sadaqah while we hand over the money.

[siraj.m]

Bribery is often necessary in such circumstances -- trust me! I heard from one Shaykh that we ought to intend sadaqah while we hand over the money.

In what window of opportunity do you give a bribe? And wouldn't that indicate I have something to hide? How stupid that it has come to this.

[doomed]

Isn't it a bit awkward bribing someone? I probably wouldn't know how to do that or would want to do that.

Did customs ask you the purpose of your stay? If they ask me lots of questions do i tell them about abu nour?? Or hide my plan to study?

Yes it is awkward at first but that's just how this country works, you'll come to see that pretty quickly esp when it comes time to extend your visa. They did ask me and I told them I'm here to visit my husband's family, which is true. The thing is apparently the government is having problems with foreigners attending Abu Nour, I don't know why they say it's the whole terrorism thing but Abu Nour is not a right wing salafi school and is not political in anyway. When you attend there is a whole slu of papers they fill out now about the students that they didn't before, this is very different from when I attended 3 years ago and this info is coming from my brother in law who asked if I could start the class half way through, 3 years ago it would have been possible, but not now. So would I tell customs you are here to study....I would just tell them you are a tourist and have been interested in visiting Syria for a long time. Syrians, esp customs are very nationalistic so just go on about how much you've wanted to see this "beautiful country" and inshAllah everything will be fine, don't worry too much about customs.

[doomed]

In what window of opportunity do you give a bribe? And wouldn't that indicate I have something to hide? How stupid that it has come to this.

Everything in Syria is one big hassle, it doesn't mean you have anything to hide here, just that you want things done faster than Arab pace aka a very long time

[suleimanibnsalim]

@siraj.m:

Keep this hadith in mind:

حفت الجنة بالمكاره وحفت النار بالشهوات

"Jannah is surrounded by that which is disliked; the fire is surrounded by that which is attractive"

One could apply the hadith to this case by way of analogy: that which is valuable required striving to attain.

was-salam

[siraj.m]

Jazakallah Kheir everyone. 'Doomed' for all your information. And I guess in two weeks I can be one to answer these questions for someone else.

Salaams!

[naav]

:salam:

How does the visa system for studying at Abi Nour work? How long do you get a tourist visa for and what then do you do for studying the remainder of the course at Abi Nour?

Thanks.

[siraj.m]

waalaykumsalaam brother. i don't think now is a good time to go to syria, but thats just my opinion.

was-salaam

[doomed]

:salam:

How does the visa system for studying at Abi Nour work? How long do you get a tourist visa for and what then do you do for studying the remainder of the course at Abi Nour?

Thanks.

To apply for a visa you can go to the Syrian embassy, if you have one where you live, of you download the application from the embassy website and mail it in. The Tourist Visa is good for 3 months, I believe, I could be wrong this was 3 years ago when I needed a visa. You can renew it once in Syria, for that you go to a government building, trust me if you are in Abu Nour there will always be someone needing to renew their visa, just ask to go with them. The second time you cannot renew your visa, you will need to apply for a temporary residence, again ask a classmate to go with you if you need help. Classes start again in the middle of May and then again in the beginning of July, you cannot start half way through. SirajM said it right, now might not be the best time to travel to Syria but if you do don't involve yourself in anything other than studying.

[ibn azhari]

السلام عليكم
Dear brothers, anyones knows situation in abu nour, at the moment?

[al-hamd]

السلام عليكم
Dear brothers, anyones knows situation in abu nour, at the moment?

If you read the news, you will see that it is not safe even for Syrians to live in Damascus at the moment. There are other places to study for the time being.