Director - Deira International School

Deira International School (DIS) is seeking an ambitious and visionary new Director from August 2026 or sooner, to lead the school into an exciting new phase of growth and consolidation.

Founded in 2005, DIS is located in the heart of Dubai Festival City, a vibrant waterfront development that combines residential living, entertainment, retail, and hospitality. Over the years, the school has grown into one of the most respected international institutions in the UAE, offering a world-class British curriculum education to students from across the globe. Today, the school serves over 2,000 students from more than 80 nationalities. Its diverse, vibrant student body reflects the global character of Dubai itself. The school’s graduates are now studying and working in leading universities and industries across the world - from the UK and North America to Europe, Asia, and beyond.

The new Director will be stepping into a role with a solid foundation. DIS has been rated ‘Outstanding’ for three consecutive years by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) - the government body responsible for inspecting and regulating private schools in Dubai. This rating reflects exceptional performance in key areas such as Student Achievement, Wellbeing, Inclusion, and Alignment with the UAE National Agenda. The school has also received full marks from British Schools Overseas (BSO), a UK-recognised accreditation body that ensures British international schools maintain the standards expected in the UK.

The Director is also a key member of a wider education family. DIS operates under the Al Futtaim Education Foundation (AFEF), a not-for-profit organisation established to drive educational excellence across the United Arab Emirates and beyond the borders. AFEF also manages Universal American School (UAS), which follows the American curriculum and the International Baccalaureate. UAS is currently Dubai’s only US curriculum school rated ‘Very Good’ by the KHDA. Both schools benefit from strategic investment, centralised governance, and a shared commitment to quality education.

The Board seeks applications from exceptional international educators who understand excellence and possess the gravitas and humility required to lead one of the leading Dubai schools. This is a role for someone who leads with purpose. The Director sets the tone for the entire school community - ensuring every student, teacher, and parent feels supported, challenged, and engaged. With DIS recognised as ‘Outstanding’, the next Director is expected to sustain high standards while being bold enough to explore new opportunities.

An application pack can be downloaded via the link below.

For a discreet, informal conversation about this opportunity please reach out to Lamis Laouar at Ahlam.Laouar@odgers.com.

The deadline for receipt of applications is Friday 1 August, however candidates will be interviewed on a rolling basis and are encouraged to apply early.