Job Description

Founding Principal - New GEMS British Curriculum School - Dubai, UAE
Position Overview
GEMS Education is seeking an experienced Founding Principal to lead a new British curriculum school opening in Dubai in September 2026. The role requires a visionary leader with proven expertise in school development, academic excellence, and community engagement to establish and grow a high-performing learning environment from inception.
Location: UAE
Location: Dubai
Industry: Education / Teaching / Training
Function: Management
Salary: 55000-70000 monthly (Market estimated)
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Preferred Location: Any
Job Type: Full-time
Job Details

• Lead the launch and development of a new British curriculum school offering affordable, high-quality education
• Establish a strong school culture that integrates the Grow, Flourish, and Succeed ethos
• Drive educational excellence, ensuring outstanding student outcomes across academics, wellbeing, and personal growth
• Manage operational, commercial, and academic functions to achieve sustainable growth
• Provide strategic direction and set clear expectations for staff performance and collaboration
• Develop strong parental engagement and community partnerships to support student learning
• Lead inspection readiness and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and accreditation standards
• Recruit, motivate, and mentor staff while fostering a culture of continuous improvement
• Oversee phased growth of the school, expanding year groups and facilities in line with strategic plans

Ideal Profile

• Proven leadership experience as a Principal or Headteacher in National Curriculum for England schools
• Experience in school start-up or turnaround with evidence of achieving strong student outcomes
• Successful track record of leading inspection processes and achieving high ratings
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with ability to inspire stakeholders
• Extensive experience in managing large staff teams and senior leaders
• Demonstrated passion for co-curricular activities and whole-child development
• Cultural awareness and commitment to inclusive, diverse school communities

Why Join Us
At GEMS Education, you will have the rare opportunity to establish and lead a new school from its founding year. This role offers the chance to shape strategy, culture, and outcomes in a dynamic educational environment supported by one of the world's largest private school networks.
About the Company
GEMS Education is a global network of private schools headquartered in Dubai, UAE, offering world-class education across multiple curricula. With over 60 years of legacy and innovation, GEMS schools are trusted by families worldwide for delivering academic excellence, fostering creativity, and preparing students to thrive in higher education and beyond.
Job Title Founding Principal - New GEMS British Curriculum School - Dubai, UAE
Founding Principal - New GEMS British Curriculum School - Dubai, UAE
Position Overview
GEMS Education is seeking an experienced Founding Principal to lead a new British curriculum school opening in Dubai in September 2026. The role requires a visionary leader with proven expertise in school development, academic excellence, and community engagement to establish and grow a high-performing learning environment from inception.
Location: UAE
Location: Dubai
Industry: Education / Teaching / Training
Function: Management
Salary: 55000-70000 monthly (Market estimated)
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality: Any
Candidate Preferred Location: Any
Job Type: Full-time
Job Details

• Lead the launch and development of a new British curriculum school offering affordable, high-quality education
• Establish a strong school culture that integrates the Grow, Flourish, and Succeed ethos
• Drive educational excellence, ensuring outstanding student outcomes across academics, wellbeing, and personal growth
• Manage operational, commercial, and academic functions to achieve sustainable growth
• Provide strategic direction and set clear expectations for staff performance and collaboration
• Develop strong parental engagement and community partnerships to support student learning
• Lead inspection readiness and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and accreditation standards
• Recruit, motivate, and mentor staff while fostering a culture of continuous improvement
• Oversee phased growth of the school, expanding year groups and facilities in line with strategic plans

Ideal Profile

• Proven leadership experience as a Principal or Headteacher in National Curriculum for England schools
• Experience in school start-up or turnaround with evidence of achieving strong student outcomes
• Successful track record of leading inspection processes and achieving high ratings
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with ability to inspire stakeholders
• Extensive experience in managing large staff teams and senior leaders
• Demonstrated passion for co-curricular activities and whole-child development
• Cultural awareness and commitment to inclusive, diverse school communities

Why Join Us
At GEMS Education, you will have the rare opportunity to establish and lead a new school from its founding year. This role offers the chance to shape strategy, culture, and outcomes in a dynamic educational environment supported by one of the world's largest private school networks.
About the Company
GEMS Education is a global network of private schools headquartered in Dubai, UAE, offering world-class education across multiple curricula. With over 60 years of legacy and innovation, GEMS schools are trusted by families worldwide for delivering academic excellence, fostering creativity, and preparing students to thrive in higher education and beyond.
Post Details
Job Start Date
Salary from 55000.00
Salary to 70000.00
Number of Vacancies 1
Location -
Location City Dubai
Desired Candidate's Profile
Gender No Preference
Nationality
Candidate Current Location

Skills Required