Doug Pettitt

Principal Mamoura British Academy, Aldar Education, Abu Dhabi.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

About

I am a Principal with over 20 years’ experience leading high-performing British curriculum schools across the UK and UAE, with a track record of delivering sustained excellence, strategic growth, and outstanding student outcomes. I am currently Principal of Mamoura British Academy in Abu Dhabi, an ambitious and forward-thinking school committed to delivering a world-class education through academic rigour, innovation, and a strong values-driven culture. Prior to this, I served as Secondary Principal at Deira International School (DIS), where I led the school to significant improvement, including achieving and maintaining ‘Outstanding’ KHDA judgements (2023, 2024) alongside ‘Outstanding’ BSO inspections (2021, 2025). Under my leadership, DIS strengthened its academic outcomes, enhanced teaching quality through evidence-informed practice, and expanded its reputation as a leading British international school. My leadership is grounded in: High-performance academic culture and uncompromising expectations Evidence-informed teaching and curriculum design Strategic school improvement and inspection success Building strong, values-led school communities Developing future-ready students through innovation and real-world learning I began my career in the UK, holding senior leadership and Headship positions, before moving internationally with GEMS Education. Across all roles, I have remained focused on one core principle: ensuring every student achieves exceptional outcomes and leaves school fully prepared to thrive in a complex, global world.

Experience

  • Principal at Mamoura British Academy
    Mar 2026 - Present · 4 mos

  • Secondary Principal at Deira International School
    Jul 2020 - Mar 2026 · 5 yrs 9 mos

  • Secondary Principal at GEMS Education
    Aug 2017 - Jul 2020 · 3 yrs

  • Head Teacher at Kingsmeadow Community School
    Sep 2013 - Aug 2017 · 4 yrs

  • Deputy Head at JOSEPH SWAN ACADEMY
    Sep 2009 - Aug 2013 · 4 yrs