Receptionist (Emiratization)

About the school

Deira International School (DIS) is a highly regarded, award-winning school in Festival City, Dubai. It holds Outstanding ratings from both BSO and KHDA, and in 2023 it received the Education Excellence Award for School Team of the Year. The school also carries Platinum recognition as a Best Place to Work, highlighting its focus on staff wellbeing and a positive workplace culture.

Serving students from ages 3 to 18, DIS is a not-for-profit institution under the Al-Futtaim Education Foundation. Established in 2005, it is known for delivering a broad, inclusive, and well-rounded education. Recent inspection feedback noted that staff are proud of the school, leadership is strong, the environment is safe and inclusive, teaching is excellent, expectations are high, the curriculum is carefully designed, and there is a clear emphasis on student progress and achievement.

The school community is highly diverse, with students and families representing more than 90 nationalities. Its facilities and programmes support development across sport, performing arts, technology, leadership, creativity, and academic enrichment. Although admissions are non-selective, students achieve results comparable to leading UK schools and progress to top universities around the world. Digital literacy is integrated throughout the curriculum to prepare learners for a fast-changing world.

About the role

DIS is hiring a Receptionist under Emiratization, offering the chance to become the welcoming face of a lively school environment. This position involves daily interaction with students, parents, staff, and visitors, and plays an important part in creating a professional, organised, and friendly front-of-house experience.

The school is part of the Al-Futtaim Education Foundation, an Emirati family-led organisation with more than 20 years of dedication to education in Dubai, and is also part of the wider Al-Futtaim Group, which has over 90 years of heritage in the UAE. The role sits within a culture built on care, community, and commitment to people.

As part of the Front of House team, you will help shape first impressions and support the daily flow of the school. The role requires professionalism, discretion, calmness, and the ability to handle a busy reception area while maintaining excellent service standards.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the initial contact for visitors, parents, staff, and students.
• Deliver courteous service that reflects the school’s values.
• Manage reception duties such as phone calls, emails, visitor sign-ins, and general enquiries.
• Support safeguarding checks and procedures for all visitors.
• Communicate effectively with parents and colleagues.
• Keep reception logs, records, and systems accurate and up to date.
• Work collaboratively with the Front of House team.
• Handle sensitive information with professionalism and confidentiality.
• Assist with school events and community activities when needed.
• Remain composed and organised in a fast-paced setting.
• Adhere to safeguarding, health and safety, and school policies.

What the school is looking for

• An Emirati candidate who enjoys engaging with people.
• A warm, approachable, and professional personality.
• Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• A commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
• A calm, positive, and well-organised working style.
• Good teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Pride in being the first welcoming presence people meet.

What is offered

• 37 days of annual leave each year to support wellbeing and work-life balance.
• Shorter working hours during school holidays in line with the academic calendar.
• Access to the Al-Futtaim Group employee discount programme, including savings across brands such as Marks & Spencer and IKEA.
• Additional Al-Futtaim Group benefits, including savings on vehicle purchase and leasing through Toyota, Lexus, Jeep, Dodge, BYD, and others.
• The chance to be part of a supportive school community where contributions are recognised and valued.

Additional information

The reception team is described as more than just a front desk; it is central to the school’s daily welcome and helps set the tone for every visitor’s experience.