Abdelrahman Farahat

Head of Department - Dubai Heights Academy

I am an experienced educator and NPQSL-qualified educational leader with over 11 years of professional experience in teaching and leading Islamic Education across diverse school contexts in the UAE. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education, specializing in Islamic Studies from Al-Azhar University, and I have completed the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) in the United Kingdom, in addition to professional leadership training with Harvard University.

I currently serve as Head of the Islamic Education Department, where I lead strategic curriculum development, coach and mentor teachers, design effective assessment systems, and oversee quality assurance and school improvement initiatives. My leadership practice is strongly aligned with evidence-informed approaches, focusing on improving teaching quality, student outcomes, and sustainable impact.

My work is driven by a deep commitment to student-centered learning, critical thinking, and the purposeful integration of Visible Thinking Strategies within Islamic Education. Alongside my leadership role, I am a master’s researcher in curricula and teaching methods, with a research focus on the impact of visible thinking strategies on developing students’ critical thinking skills.

I am passionate about professional development and bridging classical Islamic knowledge with contemporary educational practices. My educational vision centers on purposeful, values-driven education.

Speaker Sessions

GESS Talks Live 1525

Apr 21 2026 | 4:20pm - 5pm

Teaching Arabic to Non-Native Speakers: Building Global Bridges Through Language Education

Session Summary:

This panel explores the transformative role of Arabic language education in fostering international understanding and cross-cultural communication. As Arabic emerges as an increasingly important global language, effective instruction for non-native speakers creates meaningful connections between diverse cultures while opening doors to economic, educational, and social opportunities. Panelists examine innovative teaching methodologies, technology integration, and curriculum strategies that make Arabic accessible and engaging for international learners from varied backgrounds and learning contexts. This session with help you:

• Master effective Arabic instruction through proven strategies and methodologies for teaching Arabic to non-native speakers across different cultural and educational contexts

• Implement technology-enhanced learning by identifying apt digital tools and innovative approaches that improve Arabic language acquisition outcomes and student engagement

Speakers

Alaa Badry | Arabic Leader / ِArabic B Teacher - One World International School, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Abdelrahman Farahat | Head of Department - Dubai Heights Academy