This study delves into the difficulties faced by English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students in essay writing, aiming to explore challenges from both the students’ and the lecturer’s perspectives. EFL learners often encounter obstacles that go beyond language skills, including cultural nuances and unfamiliar academic conventions. The research seeks to provide a detailed understanding of these challenges, shedding light on students’ experiences and the instructor’s viewpoint. By doing so, the study aims to offer insights that can inform teaching strategies, fostering a more supportive learning environment for EFL students in mastering the art of essay writing.