Word processing
Arabic Editor
Probably the cheapest solution ($39 at the time of writing), and downloadable over the internet. Does not require an Arabic-enabled version of Windows. To get the feel of it, you can download a free demo version (some characters are disabled). Can be set up for phonetic typing if you are unfamiliar with the standard Arabic keyboard. A no-frills system, but adequate for basic text inputting and editing.
Global Writer
Multilingual word processor. Does not require Arabic-enabled version of Windows. Includes a pop-up keyboard and a limited range of fonts. Available from Lingua in UK and World Language in US.
Nisus Writer
Macintosh only - unsuitable for PCs.
Arabisation
Arabisation software allows existing applications to be used for inputting Arabic text. (Note: this may not be necessary if you have a newer version of Windows, such as XP or Windows 2000 - see Getting Started).
OnePen
For insertion of Arabic text (and many other languages) in most well-known applications. Works with non-Arabic Windows 95, 98 and NT.
Global Office
For insertion of Arabic text (and many other languages) in non-Arabic versions of Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint (but not Access). Available in UK from Lingua and in US from World Language.
Kalimat
For insertion of Arabic text in Mac-based graphics applications: Illustrator, Freehand, PhotoShop, etc.
al-Rassam al-Arabi
For insertion of Arabic text into photo retouching and illustration programs: Photoshop, Illustrator, Freehand, Corel, etc. Includes 20 Arabic fonts
ArabicXT
An Arabic XTension for QuarkXPress (Mac, PowerMac, and PC Windows platforms).
SafahatXT
An Arabic XTension for QuarkXPress (Mac only).
Fonts
Aramedia fonts
Two CDs of professional quality fonts, including the entire Agfa Arabic typefaces collection, and the Boutros Advertising Collection.
Glyphfonts
A selection of Arabic fonts
Monotype
A selection of Arabic fonts
Diwan Mishafi Font
One of the most complex fonts ever created. Can be used to compose Quranic calligraphy.
Arabic Linotype Library Fonts
Original typefaces used for decades by the printing industry.
Diwan Arabic Fonts
A large high-quality collection
Freelang
A selection of free downloadable fonts
Desktop publishing
Adobe - Middle East
Arabic versions of InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.
Ready, Set, Go!
For Mac platform. Also Windows version
al-Nashir al-Maktabi
Entry-level desktop publishing for Windows
al-Nashir al-Sahafi
Industrial-strength version of al-Nashir al-Maktabi, for the Mac. Also Windows version
al-Nashir al-Sahafi Dibaj
Desktop publishing with with a focus on advanced typography and top-quality graphics
OCR
Creates text files from scanned documents.
OCR (Sakhr)
Universal OCR (from Aramedia)
Databases
Idrisi (Sakhr)
Adds Arabic search and retrieval to corporate databases, websites and documents
