RTL Support Is More Than Mirroring a Layout (Demo)
Mirroring a page horizontally is not enough. Arabic needs attention to type, numerals, icons and text length.
When adapting an interface for Arabic, many teams enable right-to-left and fix whatever appears mirrored. The result usually works, but does not feel designed for Arabic.
Type first
A Latin typeface rarely serves Arabic well. Choose a clear Arabic family with enough weights for headings and body, and increase line height because Arabic letterforms need more vertical room.
Numerals and dates
Do not assume every number is Latin. Standardise numeral formatting, and test date and currency formats in Arabic rather than leaving them to defaults.
Icons and direction
Some icons — arrows, back buttons — must mirror; others must not: logos, mathematical symbols, media controls. Blind mirroring confuses users.
The real test
Write real Arabic copy early, not filler text. Word lengths differ, and headings may wrap or buttons may stretch unexpectedly.
Demonstration article from development data.