The Dibran dialect is considered a subdialect of the Gheg dialect of Albanian, spoken primarily in the Diber County, northeastern Albania, and parts of western North Macedonia. It is a significant form of Gheg, with its unique linguistic characteristics based on the culture and traditions followed in the Diber area. The Shkoder dialect is considered a subdialect of the Gheg dialect as well. The two different Gheg dialects are separated by cultural differences based on the area.  

The history of Albanian dialects reflects the linguistic, cultural, and geographical diversity of the Albanian-speaking world. Tosk became the basis of standard Albanian. Gheg is still a language taught but not often used; it is more of a historical language spoken. Both dialects are essential to understanding the unique identity of the Albanian language and its native speakers. 

Amongst the community, there is also a stigma surrounding which dialect tends to be considered more proper and which is considered to be of a lower class. The Shkoder dialect is seen to be the more proper and appealing dialect in comparison to Dibran.

Regional variables 

Gheg is spoken in:

• Northern Albania
• Kosovo
• Montenegro
• North Macedonia
• Parts of southern Serbia

Tosk is spoken in:

• Southern Albania
• Among Albanian communities in Greece (Arvanitika)
• Among Arbëresh communities in Italy