لدي هواية جديدة

You use this to introduce a topic you are excited about. Follow it up with the name of the activity. For example, say عندي هواية جديدة: الطبخ (I have a new hobby: cooking). It is a great way to break the ice. You can use it with friends or even colleagues.

Use it when you want to update people on your life. It works perfectly during a coffee catch-up. It is great for small talk at the office. You can even use it in a text message. If you just bought a camera, this is your line. If you started gardening, say this phrase first.

Do not use this for serious life changes. It is for fun, lighthearted activities. Don't use it for a new job or a new baby. That would sound very strange and maybe a bit cold! Also, avoid it in very stiff, academic writing. Keep it for social and semi-formal settings.

In many Arabic-speaking cultures, sharing personal interests builds trust. It shows you are a well-rounded person. People love to ask follow-up questions about your hobbies. It is a sign of a balanced life. Historically, hobbies like poetry or calligraphy were highly respected. Today, it could be anything from gaming to hiking.

You can change the adjective to match your feeling. If it is a 'strange' hobby, use غريبة (ghareeba). If it is 'expensive,' use غالية (ghaliya). You can also ask others هل عندك هواية؟ (Do you have a hobby?). This keeps the conversation flowing beautifully.