This site uses cookies. Some are essential while others improve your browsing experience and allow us to advertise. For more info visit the privacy policy page.

Allow inessential cookies for:

Your preferences have been updated.

A local displaying many of his art work of Aruba.

Official Languages of Aruba

We communicate in several languages, including English, but it’s the unique rhythm of Papiamento that will charm you.

Aruba Culture Inspired Carnival Float

Dutch and the local language of Papiamento are the official languages of Aruba, but most Arubans speak a minimum of four languages, including English and Spanish.

Papiamento embodies the friendliness for which the local population is known. The native language’s inclusive and open nature is reflected by its unique sayings and mannerisms.

Unique to the ABC islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, Papiamento evolved from a rudimentary pidgin language—utilized for the purpose of communication among peoples with different native tongues—into the more complex language it is today. At its base, the language is an Afro-Portuguese Creole, which, over the years, has grown in syntax and lexicon with increased borrowings from Dutch, English, and Spanish while still retaining its own unique rhythm and meanings.

Evidence of its first widespread use can be observed in official documents from Curacao from the early 18th century. Throughout the middle of the 19th century, Papiamento was the language of choice for written materials, including Roman Catholic hymnals and schoolbooks. The first Papiamento-language newspaper soon followed with the apt moniker of Civilisado (The Civilizer) in 1871. Papiamento was used as the language of instruction in schools until Dutch subsidies came with the stipulation that lessons be taught solely in Dutch. However, Papiamento has recently been reintroduced in the local educational system.

Although in use as the native language for over 300 years, Papiamento was only declared Aruba's official language, alongside Dutch, on March 19, 2003.

Want to learn a bit of Papiamento? Here are a few phrases to get you started!

Bon bini! = Welcome!

Bon dia. / Bon tardi. / Bon nochi. = Good morning. / Good afternoon. / Good evening.

Con ta bai? = How are you?

Mi ta bon! = I am well!

Danki. = Thank you.

Aruba ta dushi! = Aruba is lovely!

Go Back in Time

Archaeological Museum in Aruba

In the Fontein cave situated in the Arikok National Park and at the Ayo Rock Formation you can see the Arawak drawings and carvings.


One of the best things about the amount of languages spoken in Aruba is that you’ll always have someone to chat with. Whether your native language is English, Dutch, Spanish, French, Chinese, Italian or something completely different, chances are, you will meet an Aruban that could very easily communicate with you. Arubans are especially fluent in Papiamento and Dutch, as those are the official languages of Aruba. If you don’t know those languages yet, perhaps you will make a friend who can teach you during you next trip to the One happy island.

Mural of peacock in San Nicolas

Arts & Culture in Aruba

Aruba is not just a tropical paradise. It’s a center of Caribbean art and culture.

Explore

Featured Articles

the attendees of the Destination Review June 2021 enjoying the Setup at Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino

Learn More About our Island

Fast Fact Aruba

What language do they speak? Is it a Dutch colony? How many people live there? The questions were many, the answers few.

Romantic Highlights-  Aruba Eagle Beach

What Makes Aruba the Happiest Island

Count the Ways

From experiencing the people, landmarks, and climate to embarking on outdoor adventures, this culture-rich island offers countless ways to smile.

Featured in Aruba

Culture

Masterpieces on the walls of San Nicolas

Interior of the wine cellar at Papiamento Restaurant.

Eat & Drink

Papiamento Restaurant

Sideview of the Fort Zoutman tower in Aruba

Families

Fort Zoutman Historical Museum

What is to official language of Aruba?
The official languages of Aruba are Dutch and the local language of Papiamento, but most Arubans speak of minimum of four languages.

We’re just getting started with the amazing effects Aruba has to offer. Dig into your trip details below to unlock a Caribbean experience that will fill you with sunshine and send you home with a happy afterglow that never fades.

Plan Your Effect

TRIP PLANNER

myAruba planner

Save your favorite places and experiences to a custom itinerary you can manage while you're visiting the island: Start Planning