This paper aims to examine the leadership role of the Head of Department (HoD) in teaching and learning of Arabic language in two of Abu Dhabi?s private schools. The main research question is what is the impact of the HoD on teaching and learning Arabic language in Abu Dhabi private schools? This piece of research employs a qualitative methodological approach, whereby data were gathered from two private schools in Abu Dhabi. A Pilot study with 3 teachers and one HoD was conducted; 8 semi-structured interviews were employed with two head teachers, 2 HoDs and 4 teachers in two private international schools in Abu Dhabi. The findings of this paper were that no formal preparation was provided to HoDs for leading the teaching and learning of Arabic language, HoDs practise their leadership role by running class observation, monitoring (teaching and learning, lesson plans, students? work and assessment) and providing teachers with feedback. HoDs lack of pedagogical knowledge, lack of curriculum design and implementation. The study found that HoDs face variety of challenges, such as, lack of teaching and learning resources, demotivated teachers, heavy workload and paperwork, HoDs perceived by teachers as fault hunters and lack of leading by example, and lack of quality CPD. This study provides the following recommendations; HoDs should be provided with courses about the subject and curriculum knowledge and the leadership role. HoDs need to be trained about quality monitoring teachers? work and students learning and how to be critical friends. HoDs should engage Arabic teachers in planning, monitoring and evaluation processes.