شكرا

Shukran
Thank you

This is a standard response. You can also say shukran jazeelanwhich would indicate ‘thank you very much’.

هَذا مِن لُطفك

haadha min luTfak
It’s very kind of you.

This phrase is a very polite way to express your gratitude and appreciation. The Arabic word luTf is used to imply politeness, goodness and gentleness. Using the same root l-T-f to create the adjective, you can make further compliments, such as ‘You are very friendly’, ‘You are very kind’ by saying:

anta laTeef jiddan (to a man)
anti laTeefa jiddan (to a woman)

على عَيني

3ala 3aynee
You’re welcome.

The phrase literally means ‘on my eye’, and your host or friend will use it to show how willing he or she is to fulfill your wishes and requests with great joy.

Another expression with the same meaning is:

3ala ra’see (literally, on my head)

Instead of actually saying these expressions, many Arabs will use very typical gestures. They will either put the forefinger of their right hand to their eyes, which represents 3ala 3aynee, or they will put their right hand flat on their heads, which represents 3ala ra’see.

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