Top 10 Schools in Dubai by Curriculum

Dubai offers a wide variety of high-quality schools across different curricula, catering to its diverse population. The article highlights top schools in British, American, Indian, and IB programs, each with their own strengths in academics, extracurricular activities, and student development.

While Dubai College is recommended as the top overall choice, the article emphasizes that the best school for any child depends on their individual needs, interests, and learning style. Parents are encouraged to consider factors such as curriculum, location, fees, and school culture when making their decision, and to involve their children in the process of choosing the right school.

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Top 10 Schools in Dubai by Curriculum

Introduction

Dubai is home to many great schools. With over 200 private schools, parents have lots of choices. This guide looks at the top 10 schools for different types of education in Dubai. It will help you pick the best school for your child.

My children have been schooling in Dubai for more than 10 years. I've seen how schools here have grown and changed. This article uses my own experiences, lots of research, and expert opinions to give you a full picture of Dubai's best schools.

 

British Curriculum Schools

Many people in Dubai, both from other countries and locals, like British schools. Here are the top 10 British schools:

1. Dubai College

  • Fees: 89,205 - 101,012 AED per year
  • Students: About 1,000
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Sufouh
Dubai College is one of the best schools in the UAE. It's hard to get into, and students do very well in their A-Level exams. It's great for students who are good at studying.

2. GEMS Wellington International School

  • Fees: 46,436 - 101,025 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,500
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Sufouh
GEMS Wellington teaches both British and International subjects. It even offers the IB Diploma. The school has great facilities and focuses on new ideas in education.

3. Jumeirah College

  • Fees: 75,178 - 84,575 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,100
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Safa
Jumeirah College is known for good exam results and lots of activities outside of class. Many families in central Dubai choose this school.

4. Dubai English Speaking School (DESS)

  • Fees: 38,305 - 47,406 AED per year
  • Students: About 900
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Oud Metha
DESS is one of the oldest British schools in Dubai. It's known for its friendly community and great primary education.

5. Repton School Dubai

  • Fees: 52,863 - 90,640 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,000
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Nad Al Sheba
Repton lets students live at the school or come during the day. They care a lot about students' well-being and helping them do well in school.

6. Kings' School Dubai

  • Fees: 44,928 - 56,652 AED per year
  • Students: About 950
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Umm Suqeim
Kings' School Dubai welcomes all kinds of students and is especially good for primary education.

7. JESS Arabian Ranches

  • Fees: 44,340 - 96,669 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,500
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Arabian Ranches
JESS teaches both British and IB subjects. They like to get the community involved in school life.

8. Dubai British School

  • Fees: 50,496 - 75,746 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,100
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Springs
Dubai British School has good exam results and lots of activities outside of class.

9. Horizon English School

  • Fees: 42,063 - 56,377 AED per year
  • Students: About 800
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Safa
Horizon English School is popular for primary education. It's known for being a caring place for kids.

10. Safa British School

  • Fees: 35,000 - 55,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,000
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Meydan
Safa British School gives a well-rounded education with a focus on sports and arts.

American Curriculum Schools

American schools are also popular in Dubai. Here are the top 10 American schools:

1. American School of Dubai

  • Fees: 57,680 - 85,057 AED per year
  • Students: About 1,900
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Barsha
ASD is a non-profit school that teaches American subjects. They offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students.

2. Dubai American Academy

  • Fees: 59,949 - 84,511 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,500
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Barsha
DAA teaches both American and IB subjects. They focus a lot on new technology and ideas.

3. American International School Dubai

  • Fees: 32,000 - 55,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 3,000
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Mizhar
AIS Dubai offers affordable American education. They have students from many different cultures.

4. Universal American School

  • Fees: 37,330 - 76,670 AED per year
  • Students: About 1,500
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Dubai Festival City
UAS teaches both American and IB subjects. They try to teach each student in a way that works best for them.

5. GEMS Dubai American Academy

  • Fees: 52,500 - 84,511 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,300
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Barsha
GEMS DAA is known for new programs and helping students get into good colleges.

6. Collegiate American School

  • Fees: 45,000 - 75,000 AED per year
  • Students: About 1,200
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Umm Suqeim
CAS teaches both American and IB subjects. They focus a lot on STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math).

7. Dunecrest American School

  • Fees: 72,000 - 95,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 600
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Barari
Dunecrest teaches American subjects and focuses on building good character in students.

8. American School of Creative Science

  • Fees: 25,000 - 45,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,500
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Barsha
ASCS teaches American subjects with an Islamic approach. It's good for Muslim families.

9. Clarion School

  • Fees: 60,000 - 95,000 AED per year
  • Students: About 500
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Quoz
Clarion School teaches American subjects in a new way. They encourage students to ask questions and explore.

10. Raffles American School

  • Fees: 45,000 - 75,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,000
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Nad Al Sheba
Raffles American School teaches both American and IB subjects. They try to help students grow in all areas of life.

Indian Curriculum Schools

Indian schools are popular with the many Indian families living in Dubai. Here are the top 10:

1. GEMS Modern Academy

  • Fees: 22,000 - 44,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 3,800
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Nad Al Sheba
GEMS Modern Academy teaches both CISCE and IB subjects. Students here do very well in exams.

2. Delhi Private School Dubai

  • Fees: 10,500 - 15,500 AED per year
  • Students: Over 3,500
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Academic City
DPS Dubai offers affordable CBSE education. They focus on helping students do well in exams.

3. The Indian High School

  • Fees: 5,900 - 10,800 AED per year
  • Students: Over 13,000
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Oud Metha
The Indian High School is one of the oldest and biggest Indian schools in Dubai. They are known for tough academics.

4. GEMS Our Own English High School

  • Fees: 6,200 - 11,500 AED per year
  • Students: Over 10,000
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Warqa'a
GEMS OOE offers affordable CBSE education. They also have lots of activities outside of class.

5. The Millennium School

  • Fees: 14,534 - 32,960 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,800
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Qusais
The Millennium School teaches CBSE subjects. They try to help students grow in all areas of life.

6. JSS Private School

  • Fees: 12,000 - 22,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,000
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Safa
JSS teaches CBSE subjects. They also focus on Indian culture and values.

7. Amity School Dubai

  • Fees: 15,500 - 23,500 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,500
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Qusais
Amity School teaches CBSE subjects. They focus a lot on technology and new ideas.

8. Gulf Indian High School

  • Fees: 5,400 - 8,500 AED per year
  • Students: Over 3,000
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Garhoud
Gulf Indian High School offers affordable CBSE education. They focus on helping students do well in exams.

9. Our Own High School

  • Fees: 5,400 - 9,800 AED per year
  • Students: Over 10,000
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Warqa'a
Our Own High School is known for low fees and good exam results.

10. New Indian Model School

  • Fees: 4,800 - 7,500 AED per year
  • Students: Over 8,000
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Garhoud
NIMS has some of the lowest fees for Indian education in Dubai. They teach many students.

International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools

IB schools are becoming more popular in Dubai. Their education is recognized around the world. Here are the top 10:

1. Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS)

  • Fees: 44,340 - 96,669 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,000
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Arabian Ranches
JESS teaches all three IB programs (PYP, MYP, DP). Students do well here, and there's a strong community feeling.

2. Dubai International Academy

  • Fees: 40,900 - 72,600 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,000
  • Rating: Outstanding (KHDA)
  • Location: Emirates Hills
DIA is one of the oldest IB schools in Dubai. They have students from many different countries, and exam results are good.

3. Uptown School

  • Fees: 40,000 - 73,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,200
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Mirdif
Uptown School teaches all three IB programs. They encourage students to ask questions and explore.

4. Greenfield Community School

  • Fees: 31,700 - 76,300 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,500
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Dubai Investments Park
GCS teaches all four IB programs, including one about careers. They focus a lot on helping the community.

5. GEMS World Academy

  • Fees: 40,000 - 114,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,000
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Barsha South
GEMS World Academy teaches all four IB programs. They have great facilities and students from many countries.

6. Raffles World Academy

  • Fees: 31,000 - 89,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,000
  • Rating: Very Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Umm Suqeim
Raffles World Academy teaches all three IB programs. They focus a lot on sports and arts.

7. GEMS International School

  • Fees: 46,400 - 73,400 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,500
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Khail
GEMS International School teaches all three IB programs. They focus a lot on technology and new ideas.

8. Dar Al Marefa School

  • Fees: 36,000 - 75,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,000
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Al Khawaneej
Dar Al Marefa teaches IB subjects in both Arabic and English. It's good for both local and foreign families.

9. Swiss International Scientific School

  • Fees: 53,000 - 99,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 1,500
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Dubai Healthcare City
SISD teaches IB subjects in English and either French or German. Students can live at the school if they want.

10. Emirates International School Jumeirah

  • Fees: 35,000 - 74,000 AED per year
  • Students: Over 2,000
  • Rating: Good (KHDA)
  • Location: Umm Al Sheif

EIS Jumeirah teaches all four IB programs. They focus on helping students do well in exams and grow as people.

Conclusion

After carefully considering exam results, facilities, extracurricular activities, and overall reputation, Dubai College emerges as the top recommendation among Dubai's schools. It consistently receives an "Outstanding" rating from KHDA, produces exceptional A-Level results, and has an impressive track record of university placements. The school's focus on holistic development, coupled with its strong sense of community, makes it an excellent choice for families seeking top-tier British curriculum education in Dubai.

However, it's crucial to remember that the best school for your child depends on their individual needs, interests, and learning style. Consider factors such as curriculum, location, fees, and extracurricular offerings when making your decision. We encourage you to visit schools, talk to current parents and students, and trust your instincts.

When choosing a school, also consider:

  1. Class sizes
  2. Teacher qualifications
  3. Exam results and academic track record
  4. Sports and arts programs
  5. Support for students with additional needs
  6. Parent-school communication
  7. Alumni feedback and success stories

Remember, every child is unique. What works for one might not work for another. Take your time to find the right fit for your child and your family.

Dubai's educational landscape is dynamic, with new schools opening and existing ones introducing innovative programs. Stay informed about the latest developments and reviews. Websites like WhichSchoolAdvisor.com and SchoolsCompared.com can provide valuable insights.

Involve your child in the decision-making process. Visit schools together and ask for their opinion. After all, they'll be the ones spending their days there.

Choosing a school is a significant decision, but with thorough research and consideration, you can find an institution that will nurture your child's growth and development. Dubai's diverse educational offerings ensure that there's a perfect fit for every learner.

For more detailed information on each school, including admission processes and fee structures, visit the KHDA website or contact the schools directly. Remember, the right school can set the foundation for a lifetime of learning and success.

In conclusion, Dubai's schools offer world-class education across various curricula. Whether you choose a British, American, Indian, or IB school, you'll find institutions committed to academic excellence and holistic development. By carefully considering your options and your child's needs, you can make an informed decision that will shape their educational journey and future success.

Subscribe to our website for updates on Dubai and on how best we can help you understand this melting pot of cultures. 

Also Read: The Dubai Temperature: A Year-Round Guide to Beating the Heat (gorgeousdubai.com)

You will also like: Dubai versus Abu Dhabi: Uncovering the Captivating Contrast (gorgeousdubai.com)

Where is Dubai Located? Check here (gorgeousdubai.com)

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