Head Rugby Coach (Rugby 15s & 7s)

We are seeking an experienced Head Rugby Coach to lead the sporting development of a competitive senior rugby programme in Dubai.

Rugby 15s will be the primary competitive programme, with the objective of building a senior squad capable of competing successfully in UAE Rugby Division 2. Rugby 7s will serve as an additional platform for competition, player development, recruitment, and club exposure through selected domestic and international tournaments.

The Head Coach will play a central role in squad building, player recruitment, training, match preparation, selection, coaching structure, and long-term sporting development.

This is a hands-on leadership position with significant influence over the club’s playing philosophy, coaching standards, performance environment, and squad composition.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the senior Rugby 15s programme and take overall responsibility for team performance.
• Oversee the development and preparation of the Rugby 7s programme.
• Plan, structure, and deliver senior-team training sessions.
• Prepare and manage the Rugby 15s team for league fixtures and competitions.
• Prepare and manage Rugby 7s squads for selected tournaments.
• Establish a clear playing philosophy, tactical structure, and performance standards across both formats.
• Adapt technical and tactical preparation to the specific requirements of Rugby 15s and Rugby 7s.
• Assess existing and prospective players and identify recruitment priorities by position and role.
• Lead player recruitment, scouting, trials, assessment, and squad selection.
• Build a competitive Rugby 15s squad capable of competing successfully in UAE Rugby Division 2.
• Identify and develop players suitable for the club’s Rugby 7s squads.
• Develop individual and team development plans.
• Work closely with club management on squad composition, recruitment strategy, and season planning.
• Assist with the recruitment and management of assistant coaches, specialist coaches, and performance staff.
• Establish professional standards for training attendance, preparation, fitness, discipline, and matchday performance.
• 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 a recognised equivalent, is mandatory.
• Strong technical and tactical understanding of Rugby 15s.
• Strong understanding of Rugby 7s and the ability to prepare players and squads for the format.
• 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 different rugby backgrounds and competitive 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, performance analysis, and team preparation.
• Previous experience as a Head Coach or Senior Assistant Coach is highly desirable.
• Previous Rugby 7s coaching experience is highly desirable.
• Previous UAE or Gulf rugby experience is advantageous but not essential.

Coaching Qualification

World Rugby Level 2, or a recognised equivalent qualification, is a mandatory requirement.

A World Rugby Level 3 qualification or recognised equivalent will be considered a significant advantage.

Candidates will be required to provide details of their current coaching qualifications during the application process.

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 programme from an early stage.
• Significant involvement in squad building, player recruitment, and sporting strategy.
• Opportunity to develop both Rugby 15s and Rugby 7s programmes.
• Relocation support, where applicable, to be discussed individually with shortlisted candidates.

Please note: All coaching, training, match day, and team activities will be based in Dubai.