Protocol Section Head, Abu Dhabi - UAE National

We are looking for an experienced UAE National to lead the Protocol function within a government entity in Abu Dhabi. This is a senior, hands-on role working closely with the Chief and supporting the successful delivery of high-level official visits, VIP engagements, delegations and government events.

The role requires someone with a strong understanding of government protocol, excellent judgement and the ability to manage complex arrangements involving senior government officials, international delegates and high-profile guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day delivery of protocol arrangements for VIPs, senior government officials, international delegations and high-level events.
• Work closely with the Chief to plan and coordinate official visits, meetings, ceremonies and engagements.
• Ensure all protocol requirements are carefully planned, including seating arrangements, positioning, movements, vehicles, access, hospitality and other logistical details.
• Coordinate with relevant government entities, internal stakeholders and external parties to ensure seamless delivery of visits and events.
• Prepare and review briefing materials, schedules, itineraries, seating plans and other documentation required for official engagements.
• Understand and appropriately apply diplomatic and government protocol, including the positioning and hierarchy of officials from different countries and organisations.
• Coordinate closely with the relevant Minister or senior official and their office when required, ensuring all arrangements are aligned in advance.
• Lead and delegate to a team of approximately 3–4 protocol professionals, including senior and junior team members.
• Ensure the team is fully briefed and aligned on responsibilities before and during official engagements.
• Provide hands-on support during visits and events, including travel where required to ensure continuity of protocol arrangements.
• Anticipate potential issues and manage them discreetly and effectively in fast-paced, high-profile environments.
• Maintain the highest levels of professionalism, confidentiality and attention to detail when dealing with senior officials and VIPs.

Requirements

• UAE National with family book
• Strong government protocol experience, or experience with major firms
• Abu Dhabi based, and comfortable with a fully onsite role
• Proven experience managing VIPs, senior government officials, international delegations and high-level official visits.
• Strong understanding of government and diplomatic protocol, including hierarchy, positioning, seating, movements and official etiquette.
• Experience coordinating complex, high-profile events and visits involving multiple senior stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of how to work across government entities and with senior government offices.
• Previous experience leading or supervising a protocol team, ideally with a mix of senior and junior professionals.
• Excellent coordination, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Highly organised, detail-oriented and able to anticipate requirements before they arise.
• Strong judgement and discretion when working with confidential or sensitive information.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where plans can change at short notice.
• Willingness to travel extensively when required to support senior officials and official delegations; female candidates should also be comfortable travelling as part of the role.
• Fluency in Arabic and English.