Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Head Rugby Coach to lead the development of a competitive senior Rugby 15s programme in Dubai, with the objective of competing in UAE Rugby Division 2.

This is a hands-on leadership position with responsibility for team performance, training, match preparation, player recruitment, trials, squad selection, and long-term sporting development.

The successful candidate will play a key role in establishing the team’s playing philosophy, coaching standards, squad structure, and performance culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the senior Rugby 15s programme and take overall responsibility for team performance.
• Plan, structure, and deliver senior-team training sessions.
• Prepare and manage the team for league fixtures and competitions.
• Develop the team’s playing philosophy, tactical structure, and performance standards.
• Assess existing and prospective players and identify recruitment priorities by position.
• Lead player recruitment, scouting, trials, assessment, and squad selection.
• Build and manage a competitive squad capable of competing successfully in UAE Rugby Division 2.
• Develop individual and team development plans.
• Establish professional standards for training attendance, preparation, fitness, discipline, and match day performance.
• Work closely with club management on squad composition and season planning.
• Assist with the recruitment and management of assistant coaches and performance staff.
• Monitor team and player performance and implement appropriate development strategies.
• Contribute to the long-term sporting strategy and development of the club.

Requirements

• Significant experience coaching senior/adult Rugby 15s.
• World Rugby Level 2 coaching qualification or recognised equivalent — mandatory.
• Strong technical and tactical understanding of Rugby 15s.
• Proven experience in player assessment, squad selection, and player development.
• Experience in player recruitment, scouting, and/or trials.
• Ability to build and manage squads comprising players from diverse rugby backgrounds and experience levels.
• Strong leadership, communication, organisational, and player-management skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with club management on sporting and recruitment decisions.
• Professional approach to training planning, match preparation, and performance management.
• Previous experience as a Head Coach or Senior Assistant Coach is highly desirable.
• Previous UAE or Gulf rugby experience is advantageous but not essential.

World Rugby Level 2 certification, or a recognised equivalent qualification, is a mandatory requirement for this position. Candidates should be able to provide evidence of their current coaching qualification as part of the application process. All coaching, training, match, and team activities will be based in Dubai.

Benefits

• Full-time position based in Dubai, UAE.
• Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.
• UAE employment visa.
• Medical insurance.
• Opportunity to play a key role in building a competitive Rugby 15s programme from an early stage.
• Significant involvement in squad building, player recruitment, trials, and sporting strategy.
• Relocation support, where applicable, to be discussed individually with shortlisted candidates.