Urdu is the official language, though it is only used by 8% of Pakistanis. English is widely spoken. Regional languages include Punjabi, which is spoken by 48% of the population, Pashto, Sindhi, Saraiki and Balochi. There are numerous local dialects.
Enhance Your Trip With Some Basic Language Skills
Learning a few everyday Urdu phrases will make your trip even more memorable. See below for a list of basic Urdu greetings, phrases to get attention, and simple questions.
| English | اردو |
| Good morning | صبح بخیر |
| Good afternoon | |
| Good evening | شام بخیر |
| Good night | شب بخیر |
| Good-bye | خداحافظ |
| Excuse me | معاف کیجئےگا |
| I am sorry | میں معذرت چاہتا ہوں |
| I don’t understand | مجھےسمجھ نہیں آیا |
| Thank you | شکریہ |
| Yes | ہاں |
| No | نہیں |
| Where is ___? | کہاںہےـــــــــ؟ |
| How much is ___? | کتنےکاہےـــــــــ؟ |
| It’s delicious | یہ مزیدارہے |
| It’s fun |
Urdu Language Support
For a more comprehensive selection of useful words and phrases, take a look through the Tourist’s Language Handbook. It is a useful tool to carry with you on your trip.