Al Rassam Arabic Typing Software -
Go to File > Export > Vector . Save as an .EPS file. Import this into Photoshop or InDesign for final layout. Common Challenges and Solutions "The letters are overlapping like a mess." This happens when you use Diwani or Thuluth without adjusting the tracking (letter spacing). Increase the character spacing to 150% or 200% before typing. Al Rassam fonts have large variable widths. "My Kashida tags aren't working." Ensure you are using the correct syntax. Kashida tags often require a specific "anchor" letter. Consult the PDF manual (included in the install folder) for the Tag Reference Table. Only certain letters (like Sīn , Lām , ‘Ayn ) can be stretched safely. "The software keeps crashing on Windows 11." Run the .exe in Compatibility Mode (Windows 7 or Windows XP SP3). Also, disable "Text Scaling" in Windows Display Settings, as high DPI screens confuse Al Rassam's legacy rendering engine. The Future of Al Rassam As of 2026, the original development team has largely slowed active updates, though the software remains available through specialized distributors in the Middle East. The spiritual successor to Al Rassam is the rise of Variable Fonts and AI-driven calligraphy (like Google’s "Aref Ruqaa" or "Amiri").
| Feature | Al Rassam | Adobe Illustrator | Procreate (iPad) | WinSoft Tasmeem | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | 30+ (Excellent) | 5-10 (Standard) | 0 (Must draw) | 10 (Good) | | Kashida Control | Granular (Tags) | Minimal | Manual drawing | Moderate | | Learning Curve | High (Needs training) | Medium | Low | Medium | | Platform | Windows Only | Windows/Mac | iOS | Plug-in for InDesign | | Vector Export | Yes (Native) | Yes (Native) | No (Raster) | Yes |
For pure calligraphic typesetting (Thuluth/Diwani), Al Rassam is unbeatable. For artistic drawing or modern layout, use Illustrator. For painting, use Procreate. How to Get Started: A Step-by-Step Workflow If you have just installed Al Rassam, here is how to produce your first masterpiece. al rassam arabic typing software
For those seeking to preserve the heritage of the written Arabic word in a pixel-driven world, remains the ultimate tool. Have you used Al Rassam for a project? Share your experiences and tag shortcuts in the comments below. For tutorials on specific Thuluth tags, check our related guides.
To make it look professional, you must insert tags. For example, to stretch the letter Meem (م), you would type [+tm] before the letter. To create a long horizontal line ( Madd ), you use the [k] tag for Kashida. Go to File > Export > Vector
Type your Arabic phrase (e.g., "بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم"). Notice how the letters connect automatically.
In the rich history of the Islamic world, calligraphy is not merely writing; it is a spiritual practice, a visual art form, and a vessel for cultural identity. For centuries, mastering the Qalam (reed pen) was a lifelong journey. But in the 21st century, digital tools have bridged the gap between tradition and technology. Common Challenges and Solutions "The letters are overlapping
Arabic calligraphy sits on a horizontal baseline. Use the vertical offset tool to adjust decorative letters that should drop below the line (like the tail of the Ya ).