Set digit types for Arabic and Hebrew text

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to select Arabic, Hindi, or Farsi numeral styles in Adobe InDesign to match the document language.

InDesign supports three numeral systems for Arabic and Hebrew text: Arabic (Western), Hindi, and Farsi digits. The selected type controls how numbers appear and can be changed at the character level.

Change digit type for selected text

Select the digits you want to change using the Type tool.

Select Window > Type & Tables > Character.

Select the panel menu icon, then select a type from the Digits drop-down: Arabic, Hindi, or Farsi.

Set automatic digit preference for Arabic scripts

Select Edit > Preferences > Advanced Type (Windows) or InDesign > Preferences > Advanced Type (macOS).

Select Use Native Digits When Typing in Arabic Scripts.

Select OK.

Tip

When working with mixed-language documents, apply digit types at the character level to maintain proper numeral display for different text sections.