ELSAYED, WALAA SAMIR FATHY HUSSIEN2024-09-032024-09-032024-0620001205https://bspace.buid.ac.ae/handle/1234/2680This thesis investigates the professional development opportunities available to middle leaders in Arabic subjects within private schools in Dubai and assesses the impact of these opportunities from the perspectives of both leaders and teachers. The research employs a survey method for primary data collection, utilizing self-administered questionnaires adapted from existing literature to reflect the research objectives. Convenience sampling was used to select participants, including 70 teachers and 70 middle leaders, ensuring efficient and effective data collection. Findings reveal that middle leaders in Arabic subjects engage in a variety of professional development activities, with a strong emphasis on training courses in teaching pedagogy and leadership. Additional opportunities include leadership management programs, specialized courses, coaching, mentoring, and self-assessment strategies. The study demonstrates a significant positive impact of these professional development opportunities on both middle leaders and teachers. Challenges such as heavy workloads, lack of role clarity, and power overlaps are identified, emphasizing the need for clear job descriptions and structured role definitions. The study suggests that tailored professional development programs are crucial for meeting the diverse needs of educational leaders and recommends further research into the effectiveness of induction programs, strategies to address middle leader challenges, and the long-term impact of professional development. By investing in ongoing training and support, schools can enhance the growth and development of their staff, ultimately benefiting student learning outcomes.enprofessional development, middle leaders, private schools, United Arab Emirates (UAE)DissertationProfessor Christopher Hill