How to Build a Genuinely Bilingual Website
A truly bilingual website is more than a translated page. For Arabic, a proper RTL (right-to-left) layout and Saudi commercial Arabic matter as much as the translation itself.
1. Real RTL, Not Mirrored Text
Set `dir="rtl"` and `lang="ar"` on the document.Flip layout, margins, text alignment and icons for Arabic.Do not simply flip text — some elements (numbers, prices, phone) should stay LTR.2. Localize, Don't Just Translate
Use Saudi commercial vocabulary, not literal translations.Prices in Riyals, familiar contact formats, and local business phrasing.Keep numbers readable: Arabic sites frequently use western digits for prices.3. Choose the Right Fonts
A clear Latin font for English and a designed Arabic font (e.g. Noto Sans Arabic) for Arabic.Keep font sizes generous — Arabic script needs more line-height and can look smaller.4. Keep Content Structured
Consistent navigation, headings and calls-to-action in both languages.Make switching language easy and predictable.Ensure WhatsApp messages match the active language.5. Test on Real Devices
Check Arabic at 320px mobile width — menus and buttons must still work.Verify that mixed Arabic/English numbers and currency render correctly.Benefits
Bilingual sites reach the full Saudi market, build credibility with both local and expatriate customers, and can rank for Arabic and English searches on modest authority.