UAE Golden Visa: Pakistani School Principal Honoured for Education Leadership

Dubai, UAE – The principal of the His Highness Shaikh Rashid Al Maktoum Pakistani School in Dubai, Aisha Nasim, has been awarded the UAE Golden Visa in recognition of her significant contributions to the education sector, marking a historic achievement for the community-driven institution.

Nasim is among the first Pakistani educators to secure the prestigious long-term residency visa, conferred by the Dubai government to acknowledge her commitment to academic excellence and leadership over the past six years.

The recognition is particularly significant for the His Highness Shaikh Rashid Al Maktoum Pakistani School, a community institution that operates with limited resources but maintains compliance and high standards comparable to other Dubai schools. The School Board nominated Ms. Nasim for her extraordinary efforts in transforming the school into one of the most progressive community institutions in the emirate.

“Excellence is not about having more, but about doing more with what you have,” Nasim believes, reflecting the spirit that has defined her work in navigating the school’s strategic planning and fostering the holistic growth of students despite financial constraints.

Her academic background includes two master’s degrees—one in Economics and another in Educational Leadership from Middlesex University—and a Cambridge Diploma in Educational Leadership. She previously received global recognition, including an Outstanding Leadership Award at Education 2.0 Las Vegas, in 2022.

A certified Life and NLP Coach, Nasim has placed a strong emphasis on student well-being, confidence, and voice, ensuring that no learner is overlooked.

Sharing her views on the recognition, Nasim acknowledged the demanding role of educators in Dubai. “Educators in Dubai hold a tough and evolving responsibility ensuring compliance with KHDA standards while nurturing the holistic growth of students. Behind every successful learner stands a teacher and leader who works tirelessly,” she said.

She also praised the continuous efforts of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in guiding new policies, training educators, and driving sector-wide innovation. “Initiatives like the Golden Visa motivate teachers to take this noble profession even more seriously, with renewed commitment and pride.”

Muhammad Al Qamzi, Chairman of the School Board, welcomed the UAE’s recognition of educators and expressed immense pride in the principal’s achievement and the school’s trajectory.

“This is truly an honour for our community school, which continues to strive for better results and improved facilities,” he stated. “I am confident that under Ms Aisha’s strong leadership and clear vision, we will continue to take the school forward.”

In a further reflection of the school’s dedication to excellence, Nasim nominated senior Social Studies teacher Farah for the Golden Visa under the same initiative. Farah has served the school since 2010 and led her department to a ‘very good’ rating under KHDA inspection, notably strengthening the integration of UAE culture and heritage into the curriculum. This dual recognition underscores the school’s commitment to the UAE’s educational vision and rewarding dedicated staff.