The Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) creates challenges for Arabic learning at Indonesian Islamic Colleges. The limitations of the language learning process during the pandemic caused various problems. In addition, using learning strategies requires special planning related to differences in face-to-face learning processes into learning with online systems. Arabic is a compulsory subject that helps students acquire communication skills in a foreign language. This research describes students' perceptions of Arabic online learning at a public Islamic college in Malang. It also examines the strategies for learning during the COVID-19 emergency. The study uses a qualitative approach for data collection through observation, interviews, and documentation. Research samples were taken from students in semester 2nd to semester 6th with varying abilities. The data analysis is carried out using triangulation techniques in several steps, and involves collection, reduction, and conclusion. The results showed that students perceive Arabic online learning to be less effective. Some factors that do not support online learning such as the lack of instructions given by lecturers, limited internet connection, lack of internal motivation of students, lack of discussion hours. Several strategies are used, including discussions, lectures, singing, presentations, studying literature, and writing. The use of Arabic learning resources in online media illustrates the process of independent learning for students. The results provide input for integrating all components of learning holistically and variedly for students to remain motivated irrespective of the condition. This study recommends other researchers to examine and improve what skills teachers need to have when learning online and efforts to increase student interest in the language learning process with an online system.