[1][3][4] Shells of Alcithoe arabica can reach a height of 75–225 millimetres (3.0–8.9 in) and a width of 88 mm.

[1] These shells are usually large, solid, fusiform, with relatively weak tubercles on the shoulder of the body whorl.

[1] The external surface is yellowish-white with chestnut zig-zag markings, forming five bands on the body whorl.

These markings were thought to resemble Arabic writing, giving rise to the name of the species.

Individuals have a large grey to brown foot, flecked with purple and orange markings.