Requirements
Proven experience (often 2+ years) in a PRO or customer service role within the UAE. Thorough understanding of UAE labour laws, immigration rules, and Abu Dhabi municipality procedures. Strong communication skills, relationship management, and proficiency in MS Office. Fluency in both written and spoken Arabic and English is essential.
Description
Vision,Mission and Purpose to which we are all aligned:Gordonstoun has been leading the way in character education for more than 90 years. Our uniquely broad curriculum provides challenge in the classroom, at sea and in the desert, on the stage and on the sports fields, and enables students to discover the truth in our motto – Plus Est En Vous – there is more in you. In addition to challenge, all pupils and staff partake service activities, which promote a sense of purpose and duty to our school community, Jubail Island, the UAE and the world.We uphold the heart of Al Sanaa, a comprehensive set of authentic Emirati customs, traditions, and etiquette governing social behaviour, respect, and hospitality. Rooted in Arab culture, it embodies politeness, proper upbringing, and refined manners in daily life, such as honouring guests, respecting elders, and using appropriate etiquette.The key focus of all staff at Gordonstoun Jubail Island is to enthuse pupils, promoting the highest possible academic attainment for each individual child, whilst actively modelling compassion, service and challenge for the young people of Gordonstoun. Through your outstanding practice you will support students in all areas of school life.Gordonstoun Jubail Island was founded on the conviction that while academic achievement is essential, it is not the sole purpose of education. Dr Kurt Hahn, founder of Gordonstoun, believed that young people flourish when their horizons are broadened alongside academic study — when they are stretched, challenged, nurtured and developed so they can grow into all that they can be.Our curriculum and school life are built on four pillars:Academic excellence — pursuing the highest standards of intellectual achievementOutdoor education and adventure — developing resilience, teamwork and self-relianceService to others — contributing meaningfully to our community and the wider worldCharacter development — building integrity, compassion, responsibility and courageThis is not a job – it is a lifestyle.Responsibilities of all members of staff:Comply with Gordonstoun's policies and procedures on Safeguarding, Child Protection and Health and Safety.Model and contribute in a positive way to the ethos of the school, in line with Gordonstoun's values: Compassion; Courage; Integrity; Service; Respect.Undertake a service activity alongside pupils on a weekly basis (all members of our community will engage in mandatory weekly service (e.g. community service and action; beach cleaning; conservation of mangroves; animal welfare etc.).Undertake a challenge (e.g. outdoor education and adventure; seamanship; expeditions) or other character development activity (e.g. sport; creative & performing arts; Social Enterprise & Technical Skills Community Projects) alongside pupils on a weekly basis.Carry out any other task as required from time to time in order to support the School, which may include some evenings, Friday afternoons and weekend activities.Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined by the Gordonstoun Jubail Island Core Values.Play an active role in community events that the school might organise for children, families, school staff or the community at large as per the Principal's directions.Actively and enthusiastically contribute where and as needed to build the Gordonstoun Jubail Island reputation and community.Initiate effort and energy beyond the typical working day where tasks require additional commitment.Support and uphold the agreed policies and practices of the School.Perform other duties as requested by direct and dotted reporting line managers and supervisors.*academic staff are expected to undertake one service and one character activity each week; administrative staff are expected to undertake at least one (service or character).PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:The Public Relations Officer (PRO) serves as the essential link between the school and UAE government authorities, managing all visa processing, work permits, licensing, and regulatory compliance on behalf of the school. Reporting to the Head of HR, the role ensures that staff residency visas, ADEK registrations, and school licences are processed accurately and kept up to date in line with UAE Labour Law and Abu Dhabi municipality requirements. The PRO maintains strong working relationships with key government bodies — including ADEK, immigration, and labour offices — to ensure smooth and uninterrupted school operations.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Government Relations & Licensing: Liaise with ADEK (Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge), immigration, labour offices, and municipalities for visas, license renewals, and compliance.Visa Processing: Manage employee residency visas, work permits, and contract submissions for new and existing staff.Documentation Management: Ensure all school documents, employee files, and legal licenses are up-to-date and stored securely.Stakeholder Liaison: Serve as a primary contact for official government business to ensure smooth school operations.Carry out all necessary administrative activities in order to process all visas within the school.Prepare all documentation required to register teaching staff with ADEK and manage teaching staff leavers from ADEK.Manage and issue required regulatory documentation related to ADEK and other bodies including licences.Maintain a positive relationship with government bodies and regulatory authorities.Requirements and Qualifications:Languages: Fluency in both written and spoken Arabic and English is essential.Experience: Proven experience (often 2+ years) in a PRO or customer service role within the UAE.Knowledge: Thorough understanding of UAE labour laws, immigration rules, and Abu Dhabi municipality procedures.Skills: Strong communication skills, relationship management, and proficiency in MS Office.Note:The above details are not exhaustive, and the post holder may be required to undertake tasks, roles and responsibilities as may reasonably be assigned to him/her.This job description may be reviewed at any time as may be necessary and appropriate to meet the needs of the school.