Schools in Dubai: A Guide for Expats and Local Parents
Dubai, the dazzling metropolis of the United Arab Emirates, is not just a playground for tourists. It’s also a thriving hub for families, attracting expats from all corners of the globe. With a diverse population comes a diverse range of educational options. This guide explores everything you need to know about schools in Dubai, from the top institutions to the intricacies of the education system.
Education System in Dubai Schools
The education system in Dubai offers a variety of choices, catering to different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the three main types of schools:
- Public Schools (UAE National Curriculum): Free to attend for UAE nationals, these schools primarily follow the Arabic language curriculum.
- Private Schools: Offering a wider range of curriculums, including British, American, Indian, and more, private schools cater to a more international student body. Fees of private schools in Dubai differ depending on the school’s facilities, and curriculum.
- International Schools: Providing a truly global educational experience, international schools typically follow international curriculums like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or various national curriculums like the British or American. These schools are generally the most expensive option.
List of Best Schools in Dubai
Choosing the best school for your child depends on various factors like curriculum preference, budget, location, and desired learning environment. However, some schools consistently rank high in terms of academic achievement, facilities, extracurricular activities and teacher qualifications. Here is list of some best Schools in Dubai
Brighton College Dubai:
Established in 2018, Brighton College Dubai upholds the legacy of its British sister schools. It offers a UK curriculum from Foundation Stage to Year 13, fostering a culture of curiosity, confidence, and kindness. Their focus on individual strengths ensures a well-rounded education that prepares students for top universities worldwide.
Dubai British School Emirates Hills:
Founded in 1999, Dubai British School Emirates Hills boasts a prestigious British curriculum education from Early Years to Year 13. They are known for their excellent academic results, world-class facilities, and strong focus on pastoral care. The school actively encourages a love of learning and personal development.American School of Dubai (ASD):
Established in 1966, ASD is the oldest American curriculum school in Dubai. It caters to students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12, offering a rigorous college preparatory program alongside a strong emphasis on arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Their diverse student body fosters a global perspective.Dubai College:
A stalwart Dubai institution since 1974, Dubai College offers a well-established British curriculum education from Year 7 to Year 13. Renowned for its outstanding academic achievements and emphasis on well-rounded development, the school boasts a vibrant sporting and co-curricular program.Dubai English Speaking School (DESS):
Founded in 1961, DESS is a highly respected British curriculum school catering to students from Foundation Stage to Year 13. They are known for their innovative teaching methods, commitment to pastoral care, and focus on developing critical thinking skills in students.Cambridge International School Dubai:
Established in 2002, Cambridge International School Dubai offers a unique blend of the British and Emirati curricula for students from Foundation Stage to Year 13. The school fosters a bilingual learning environment and prepares students for the internationally recognized Cambridge IGCSE and A Levels qualification.GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis:
Launched in 2013, GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis offers the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students in Grades 11 and 12. This globally recognized program emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and interdisciplinary learning. The school also offers a strong foundation program in the earlier years.DESC Dubai English Speaking School:
Established in 2000, DESC Dubai English Speaking School provides a British curriculum education from Foundation Stage to Year 13. They are known for their inclusive learning environment, focus on developing well-rounded individuals, and commitment to fostering a love of learning in their students.Jebel Ali School:
Founded in 1981, Jebel Ali School offers a British curriculum education from Foundation Stage to Year 13. Located within the Jebel Ali Free Zone, the school caters to a diverse student body and prides itself on its strong sense of community.Jumeirah College:
Established in 1998, Jumeirah College provides a British curriculum education from Year 7 to Year 13. The school is known for its focus on academic excellence, diverse co-curricular activities, and strong emphasis on developing leadership skills in students. Their excellent facilities and dedicated faculty create a stimulating learning environment.Kings’ School Dubai:
Established in 2006, Kings’ School Dubai is a highly regarded British curriculum school catering to students from Year 7 to Year 13. Following the ethos of its sister school in England, Kings’ Dubai emphasizes academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and a vibrant co-curricular program. The school fosters a culture of respect, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.Nord Anglia International School Dubai:
Launched in 2014, Nord Anglia International School Dubai offers a unique blend of curricula. Students from Early Years to Year 13 can choose from the English National Curriculum, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, or a combination of both. This flexibility allows for personalized learning pathways and caters to diverse student needs.North London Collegiate School Dubai (NLCS Dubai):
Established in 2011, NLCS Dubai is a prestigious British curriculum school for girls from Year 7 to Year 13. The school is known for its rigorous academic program, focus on developing well-rounded individuals, and commitment to preparing students for top universities worldwide. Their strong all-girls environment fosters confidence and leadership skills.Royal Grammar School Guildford in Dubai (RGSG Dubai):
Established in 2017, RGSG Dubai is a co-educational British curriculum school catering to students from Year 7 to Year 13. This prestigious school, modelled after its sister school in the UK, offers a challenging academic program alongside a strong emphasis on co-curricular activities and character development.Swiss International Scientific School Dubai:
Founded in 2013, Swiss International Scientific School Dubai offers a unique bilingual education program (English and German) from Kindergarten to Grade 12. This school follows the rigorous Swiss curriculum, known for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. The program prepares students for top universities worldwide.The English College Dubai:
Established in 1994, The English College Dubai provides a British curriculum education from Foundation Stage to Year 13. The school is known for its nurturing environment, focus on developing critical thinking skills, and commitment to fostering a love of learning in students. Their strong emphasis on the arts and humanities sets them apart.Repton School, Dubai:
Launched in 2017, Repton School, Dubai, offers a British curriculum education from Year 7 to Year 13. This prestigious school, modelled after its sister school in the UK, emphasizes academic excellence, a strong co-curricular program, and a holistic approach to student development. Their beautiful campus and dedicated faculty create an inspiring learning environment.Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS):
Established in 1993, Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) offers a British curriculum education from Foundation Stage to Year 13. With campuses in Dubai and Sharjah, JESS is known for its innovative teaching methods, commitment to inclusivity, and focus on developing well-rounded global citizens.Dubai International Academy (DIA):
Founded in 2000, Dubai International Academy (DIA) offers a comprehensive American curriculum education from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is known for its diverse student body, strong college preparatory program, and emphasis on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students. Their vibrant campus fosters a sense of community and global understanding.
Indian Schools in Dubai
Dubai boasts a large Indian expat community, reflected in the significant number of Indian schools. These schools follow the Indian curriculum (CBSE, ICSE) and provide a familiar learning environment for Indian students. Some well-known Indian schools in Dubai include:
- The Indian High School (IHS)
- Primus Private School
- GEMS New Millennium School
- Delhi Private School (DPS) Dubai
- GEMS Metropole School – Motor City
- JSS Private School (CBSE)
- Indian High School Dubai (CBSE)
- Emirates International School – Jumeirah (CBSE)
- Pearl Wisdom School
- The Indian Academy, Dubai
- Global International Indian School Dubai
British International School in Dubai
British curriculum schools are a popular choice for expats due to their familiarity and focus on well-rounded development. Here are some highly-regarded British International Schools in Dubai:
- Dubai College
- Dubai British School Jumeirah Park
- North London Collegiate School Dubai
- Royal Grammar School Guildford in Dubai
- Jumeirah English Speaking School
- Kings’ School Dubai
Top 10 American Schools in Dubai
- The School of Research Science
- GEMS Al Khaleej International School
- Universal American School
- Dunecrest American School
- iCademy Middle East
- School of Modern Skills (SMS)
- GEMS Dubai American Academy
- Mirdif American School
- Next Generation School
- American School of Creative Science
List of Pakistani Schools in UAE
- His Highness Shaikh Rashid Al Maktoum
- Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Arab
- Pakistan Community Welfare School
- Pakistan Education Academy
- Pakistan Islamia Higher Secondary School, Sharjah
- Pakistani School Ajman
- Al Amaal English High School
- Omar Bin Al Khattab Pakistan Islamia High School
- Pakistani Islamic Private School, Al Ain
- Al Ettehad Private School
Choosing the Right School in Dubai
With a plethora of schools in Dubai, selecting the right one for your child can be overwhelming. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best school for your child:
- Curriculum: Consider curricula that align with your child’s academic background and future educational aspirations. Popular options include the British, American, Indian, and IB programs.
- Language of Instruction: Ensure the school’s primary language of instruction matches your child’s language proficiency. Most private schools in Dubai use English as the primary medium.
- School Location: Dubai is a vast city. Proximity to your residence and ease of commute are vital factors, especially for younger children.
- School Facilities: Modern facilities like science labs, libraries, sports complexes, and arts programs can enhance your child’s learning experience.
- School Fees: School fees can vary significantly depending on the school’s reputation, curriculum, and location. Private schools in Dubai typically have higher fees compared to public schools.
- Extracurricular Activities: Consider the extracurricular activities offered by the school to help your child develop their interests.
Demystifying Costs: How Much Does Schooling Cost in Dubai?
School fees in Dubai can vary significantly depending on the type of school, curriculum offered, and location. Mostly, private schools in Dubai are more expensive than public schools. However, public schools in UAE are primarily reserved for UAE nationals.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost structure:
- Public Schools: Free for UAE nationals, but limited availability for non-nationals.
- Private Schools: Fees typically range from AED 12,000 to AED 100,000 per year (approximately USD 3,400 to USD 30,000), with additional costs for uniforms, transportation, and extracurricular activities.
FAQS about Schools in Dubai, UAE
Are schools in Dubai any good?
Yes, Dubai boasts a high-quality education system with many excellent schools.
Are English schools free in Dubai?
No, most English-medium schools in Dubai are private and require tuition fees.
Are public schools free in UAE?
Public schools are free for UAE nationals, but availability for non-nationals is limited.
What are the admissions requirements for schools in Dubai?
Admissions requirements vary by school but typically include entrance exams, previous school transcripts, and interviews.
Why are Dubai schools so expensive?
The high quality of education, smaller class sizes, and additional facilities offered by private schools contribute to their cost.
Is education better in India or Dubai?
The quality of education varies between schools in both countries. Dubai offers a wider range of international curriculums, while India has a strong focus on standardized testing.
Where do British kids go to school in Dubai?
Many British expats choose British International Schools in Dubai that offer a familiar curriculum.
Can non-Emiratis go to public school?
Public schools are primarily for UAE nationals, with limited availability for non-nationals depending on the school’s capacity.
Who pays for schools in Dubai?
Parents pay tuition fees for private schools. Public schools are funded by the government.
How many American schools are in Dubai?
There are 29 schools which have adopted the American curriculum in Dubai.