Make Arabic connections. If you frequent Middle Eastern establishments such as restaurants or retail stores, make friends with some of the employees and tell them you would like to learn the Arabic language. Ask for their recommendations and if they would help you from time to time. Many people of other cultures consider it an honor when you attempt to speak with them in their native tongue. If you don't have access to meet Arab friends in person, try an online networking site or a computer-based language study course (see Resources).
Learn the Arabic alphabet and become familiar with the way it looks. Words are written from right to left, so it may feel as if you are reading backward. Look at Arabic vowels and get a feel for those.
Study common Arabic phrases. Learn how to read and speak them, and then memorize them. Buy an Arabic-English dictionary so you can look up key words and phrases.
Immerse yourself in the language as best you can. Ask your friends for help. Listen to Arabic music, and read Arabic children's books and newspapers. Ask for clarification of anything you don't understand, online or off. If you are not physically near any Arabic-speaking friends, you can participate in a chat or make friends online.
Practice Arabic regularly with your friends. Find someone who is willing to tutor you. Stay immersed in the language. Be persistent, and don't get frustrated if you don't get it right away. If you don't have any "real world" Arabic-speaking friends, practice with some online.