List of top schools in Dubai for exceptional education

• UK Curriculum Schools in Dubai
• IB Schools in Dubai
• Indian (CBSE) Schools in Dubai
• American Schools in Dubai
• FAQs

In today’s world, education is the backbone of a thriving society. The UAE government has taken commendable initiatives to strengthen this fundamental pillar by implementing policies that promote quality education in private schools. It is gratifying to see that many top schools in Dubai have embraced this vision and offer an enriching environment for students to learn and grow.

LIST OF TOP SCHOOLS IN DUBAI

While more than 200 schools operate in Dubai, some institutes are more impressive than others. A combination of state-of-the-art facilities, excellent teaching staff and sophisticated management practices make them some of the best schools in Dubai.

With qualified teachers and a comprehensive approach to knowledge-building, these schools provide an ideal platform for young minds to flourish. If you are a parent searching for the perfect school for your child, we have compiled a list of the top schools in Dubai with all the essential details you need to make an informed decision.

BRITISH SCHOOLS IN DUBAI

REPTON SCHOOL DUBAI

Repton School Dubai is one of the top schools in the emirate. It is ideal for parents seeking a comprehensive learning experience with a British or IB curriculum. A sister branch of the acclaimed Repton school in the UK, it is among the best boarding schools in Dubai, catering to students from Years 7 to 13 with a teacher-student ratio of 1:10.

Students can participate in extra-curricular activities and sports on the spacious campus. Although the school is easy to reach from any area of Dubai, it is ideal for those living in and around Nad Al Sheba. The school has secured an ‘Outstanding’ rating from KHDA.

• Fee: From AED 54,449 to AED 97,850
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Nad Al Sheba 3
• Contact: +971-4-426-9393 | +971-4-440-3482 |800 REPTON (737866)

DUBAI BRITISH SCHOOL

Another leading UK curriculum school in Dubai is the Dubai British School Emirates Hills, managed by Taaleem Education. Founded in 2005, the school has served the residents of Dubai based near Emirates Hills and Springs 3. It has also retained its Outstanding rating since 2017.

It is one of the best private schools in Dubai, focusing on academic and creative programmes. A well-equipped library, lab and plenty of activity rooms are on campus.

• Fee: From AED 50,496 to AED 75,746
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Emirates Hills
• Contact: +971-4-361-9361

DUBAI ENGLISH SPEAKING SCHOOL (DESS)

Another top school in Dubai offering the British curriculum is Dubai English Speaking School (DESS). Founded in 1963, it is one of the oldest schools in Dubai to offer the UK curriculum. Students from various backgrounds receive a quality education from FS1 to Year 6 at this school. 

DESS offers exceptional educational and non-academic facilities. For instance, students can find a swimming pool, basketball and netball courts, and rugby and football pitches. This school has also attained an ‘Outstanding’ KHDA rating.

• Fee: From AED 40,220 to AED 84,609
• Grades: FS1 to Year 6
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Oud Metha Road
• Contact: +971-4-337-1457

GEMS WELLINGTON INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

GEMS Wellington International School is another acclaimed school managed by the GEMS education group in Dubai. GEMS Wellington has consistently been rated highly by the KHDA thanks to its state-of-the-art facilities and high standards of teaching.

The school campus is equipped with numerous facilities. There are tennis, basketball and netball courts, indoor and outdoor pools and dance and music studios. Students are also encouraged to learn computing technologies at the four computer labs and three science labs. There is also an observatory that can accommodate hundreds of pupils.

Even though it is one of the top British schools in Dubai, GEMS Wellington International School also offers the IB curriculum to interested students.

• Fee: From AED 45,259 to AED 98,465
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Al Sufouh 1
• Contact: 971-4-307-3000

JUMEIRAH COLLEGE

Following the National Curriculum of England, Jumeirah College has climbed the popularity ladder quickly. It boasts top-notch facilities, including a library, recreational areas, tennis courts, netball courts, science labs, fitness centres and a swimming pool.

Over a thousand students are in the capable hands of well-trained and experienced teachers. With its Outstanding KHDA rating, it is one of the best educational institutions in Dubai, especially for children living in Al Wasl.

• Fee: From AED 75,178 to AED 93,972
• Grades: Year 7 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Al Wasl Road
• Contact: +971-4-395-5524

DUBAI COLLEGE

This educational institution is on top of every parent’s dream school list because of its indisputable reputation. The teaching and non-teaching staff at Dubai College are well-trained and focused on the well-rounded development of students.

Though it is an old school, the teaching practices and curriculum ensure an excellent student learning experience. There are also non-academic activities, including music and arts. Drama performances and concerts are held at the auditorium. The school’s Outstanding KHDA ranking is because of its four-pillar strategy of sporting, philanthropic, academic and creative endeavours.

• Fee: From AED 29,735 to AED 33,670
• Grades: Year 7 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Al Sufouh 2
• Contact: +971-4-399-9111

KINGS’ SCHOOL – NAD AL SHEBA

Kings’ School Nad Al Sheba is one of the top private schools in Dubai that offers the British curriculum. It also has specialist teachers for French, Spanish, Arabic, Islamic Education and other subjects.

Along with academics, the school focuses on extra-curricular activities such as music, swimming and performing arts. An acclaimed educational facility, Kings’ School Nad Al Sheba has maintained a great reputation since its inception.

• Fee: From AED 41,000 to AED 82,040
• Grades: ECC (1, 2) to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: Nad Al Sheba 1
• Contact: +971-4-237-5555

JEBEL ALI SCHOOL

Founded in 1977, Jebel Ali School follows the British curriculum, and students can access terrific facilities, including a lecture theatre, art and dance studios and an auditorium. Jebel Ali School is close to various communities, such as Motor City and Arabian Ranches, making it an ideal choice for residents.

REGENT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Next up on our list of top schools in Dubai is Regent International School. Located in The Greens, Regent International School offers quality education from FS1 to Year 13. 

The school has dozens of activity rooms, specialist laboratories for Science and Digital Technologies, EYFS and primary library, sports halls and dance studios.

Recognising the financial implications for families, the school offers sibling discounts. Regent International School is rated Very Good by KHDA and outstanding by the British School Overseas Inspection Authority.

• Fee: From AED 46,734 to AED 64,145
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: The Greens
• Contact: +971-4-360-8830

HARTLAND INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Hartland International School provides top-notch education based on the National Curriculum for England with the best international approaches. Students can explore their interests through 150+ clubs and enrichment activities. The 2023 Year 13 cohort achieved remarkable success, with 80% of students accepted into prestigious global universities. Admissions are open for 2023-24 and 2024-25. KHDA’s DSIB Report rated the school “Very Good” with numerous “Outstanding” features.

• Fee: From AED 42,230 to AED 80,340
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: Sobha Hartland, Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City (MBR City)
• Contact: +971-4-407-9444 | 800-HARTS (800-42787)

BRIGHTON COLLEGE DUBAI

Brighton College, one of the top schools in the UK, now has a branch in Dubai. Spread over a 20-acre campus, the school welcomes students aged three to 18.

The school has several specialised facilities, such as a black-room drama production suite, a 400 m running track, a full-length outdoor swimming pool, a design technology studio, a dance studio and a multi-purpose gym and sports hall. There are also rugby and football pitches, tennis, padel tennis and netball courts. Brighton College Dubai also offers a 100% scholarship for the outstanding students of Years 12 and 13.

• Fee: From AED 57,800 to AED 95,250
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Good
• Location: Al Barsha 2
• Contact: 800-27-4448 | 971-4-387-1111

KENT COLLEGE

Kent College Dubai is an extension of a world-renowned UK school with the same name. Spread over 53,000 sq.m, the school campus caters to students from FS1 to Year 13.

On-site facilities include shaded play areas, multiple sports fields and a swimming pool. Kent College also awards scholarships to deserving students. The management sends students for the leading youth programme – The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. During the programme, students must undertake volunteering, fitness activities, social tasks, and expeditions in the UK or another country. You must consider that Kent College is one of the most expensive schools in Dubai.

• Fee: From AED 55,620 to AED 100,940
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• KHDA rating: Good
• Location: Nad Al Sheba 2
• Contact: +971-4-318-0700

BEST IB SCHOOLS IN DUBAI

NORTH LONDON COLLEGIATE SCHOOL DUBAI

North London Collegiate School Dubai is an esteemed educational institution that offers an unparalleled academic experience, following the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. With a commitment to excellence, the school has consistently delivered outstanding results. Beyond academic achievements, NLCS Dubai promotes personal growth and character development.

As an authorised IB World School, NLCS Dubai follows a rigorous academic curriculum that promotes critical thinking, international-mindedness and holistic development. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is renowned for preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. The school’s Middle Years Programme (MYP) encourages exploration and inquiry-based learning, fostering skills essential for success in the 21st century.

NLCS Dubai understands the significance of nurturing individual talents and interests and offers various extra-curricular activities to cater to every student’s unique abilities. Students have achieved impressive IBDP results, with an average points score of 49.

At NLCS Dubai, every student is valued and supported as an individual. The dedicated and experienced teachers are committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, ensuring each student reaches their full potential.

• Fee: From AED 87,358 to AED 136,825
• Grades: Pre-KG to Grade 12
• Curriculum: IB
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City (MBR City)
• Contact: +971-4-319-0888

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GEMS MODERN ACADEMY

Located in Nad Al Sheba, GEMS Modern Academy is one of the top IB schools in Dubai that incorporates the Activities for Curriculum Enrichment (ACE) program to offer students a more holistic learning experience. Along with IB, GEMS Modern Academy offers the Indian CISCE curriculum. Students can choose between the two.

• Fee: From AED 29,505 to AED 70,351
• Grades: KG1 to Grade 12
• Curriculum: Indian/IB
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Nad Al Sheba 1
• Contact: +971-4-326-3339

EMIRATES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Emirates International School has earned quite a strong reputation in Dubai, offering an environment nurturing intellectual growth and intercultural sensitivity. Teachers are trained and equipped with modern tools to ensure that quality education is imparted to every student. Similarly, there is a strong focus on co-curricular activities. Emirates International School Jumeirah has a sister branch in The Meadows.

• Fee: From AED 36,106 to AED 76,511
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: IB
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: Jumeirah | The Meadows
• Contact: +971-4-348-9804 (Jumeirah) | +971-4-362-9009 (Meadows)

SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL

As the name indicates, the Swiss International Scientific School (SISS) incorporates technology to make learning a stimulating and interactive experience. SISS integrates a well-planned STEM program and offers robotics, coding, app development, 3D printing and design thinking programs. 

Swiss International Scientific School also organises competitions and events such as the First Lego League, KenKen Math Competition, Hour of Code and Formula 1. It is counted among the most popular IB schools in Dubai.

• Fee: From AED 64,359 to AED 101,901
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: IB
• KHDA rating: Good
• Location: Dubai Healthcare City, Phase 2, Al Jaddaf
• Contact: +971-4-375-0600

GEMS WORLD ACADEMY

Another famous school in Dubai with an IB curriculum is GEMS World Academy. The school doesn’t just focus on routine learning but encourages students to participate in diverse extra-curricular activities. The campus has playgrounds for football, cricket, tennis, rugby and other physical activities like swimming and climbing.

• Fee: From AED 41,200 to AED 117,552
• Grades: Pre-primary to Grade 12
• Curriculum: IB
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: Al Barsha South
• Contact: +971-4-373-6373

NORD ANGLIA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

Nord Anglia International School offers quality education with innovative teaching methods, co-curricular activities and educational trips! The school offers both IB and IGCSE curriculums.

With over 77 branches across 31 countries, Nord Anglia International School is an institution par excellence. It has well-equipped classrooms and specialised teaching areas like MAS Language Academy and DICE Programme. A music academy also offers training for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music – ABRSM accredited theory and practical exams.

• Fee: From AED 66,32 to AED 100,264
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British/IB
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Al Barsha 3
• Contact: +971-4-219-9999

SUNMARKE SCHOOL

Our next pick is Sunmarke School in Dubai. The school offers excellent educational facilities from nursery to secondary. Children aged as young as 45 days to 4 years can enrol for the pre-school programme in Dubai. The academic and co-curricular programme focuses on developing students physically and mentally.

Sunmarke School offers students an opportunity to participate in many exciting activities post-school hours. Many top sports academies organise football, basketball, gymnastics, swimming and Martial Arts classes within the school’s premises.

• Fee: From AED 48,722 to AED 82,129
• Grades: FS1 to Year 13
• Curriculum: British/IB
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: District 5, Jumeirah Village Triangle (JVT)
• Contact: +971-4-423-8900

BEST INDIAN SCHOOLS IN DUBAI

JSS PRIVATE SCHOOL

JSS Private School is one of the well-reputed CBSE schools in Dubai. Offering academic knowledge beyond the classroom, the teachers encourage critical and creative thinking among children from Pre-KG to Grade 12.

By partnering with several external agencies like EEG, Dubai Municipality, and IFAW, JSS Private School encourages students to take up environment-supporting activities. JPS also organises annual sports activities such as the Interschool Soccer Tournament, Swimming Competition and Geeta Devi Memorial Cup.

• Fee: From AED 11,567 to AED 12,124
• Grades: Pre-primary to Grade 12
• Curriculum: Indian CBSE
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: Al Safa
• Contact: +971-4-344-6419

SPRINGDALES SCHOOL

Springdales School is also one of the best CBSE schools in Dubai. Since its inception in 1955, the institute has been offering quality education from Pre-KG to Grade 12. 

Besides academic and recreational facilities, students can find science labs, an Olympic-size swimming pool, a library, a running track, basketball and badminton courts, a football ground and table tennis areas!

The school also offers a Pupil Enrichment Program (PEP) that conducts after-school activities to stimulate children’s creativity. Children up to three years of age can apply for registration in Pre-Primary, while children up to 4 years old are most suited for KG I.

• Fee: From AED 14,534 to AED 32,960
• Grades: Pre-primary to Grade 12
• Curriculum: Indian (CBSE)
• KHDA rating: Good
• Location: Al Quoz 4, Near Jumeirah University
• Contact: +971-4-338-1311 | +971-4-338-2123

CREDENCE HIGH SCHOOL DUBAI

Located in Al Quoz, Credence High School is a popular CBSE school in Dubai. It was set up in 2014 to provide quality education to students pursuing the CBSE curriculum.

Credence High School has a library, dance and music hall, purpose-built indoor theatre and well-equipped laboratories. Part of the learning comes from extra-curricular activities, including sporting and creative endeavours.

• Fee: From AED 13,000 to AED 26,000
• Grades: Pre-primary to Grade 12
• Curriculum: Indian (CBSE)
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: Al Quoz 4
• Contact: +971-52-985-8300

AMERICAN CURRICULUM SCHOOLS IN DUBAI

GEMS DUBAI AMERICAN ACADEMY

GEMS Education’s flagship institute, Dubai American Academy, is among the most reputable American schools in Dubai.

GEMS Dubai American Academy offers athletics, arts and creative programmes besides academics. Students with outstanding results are provided scholarships. Parents can contact the school’s virtual admission centre to know about the enrolment process or submit applications.

• Fee: From AED 63,026 to AED 88,848
• Grades: KG1 to Grade 12
• Curriculum: American
• KHDA rating: Outstanding
• Location: Al Barsha
• Contact: +971-4-709-9777

UNIVERSAL AMERICAN SCHOOL (UAS)

Established in 2005, Universal American School is a non-profit school in Dubai. The Al Futtaim Education Foundation manages UAS and offers an enriched learning experience in Dubai. Students can get enrolled in Early Years to Grade 12 at UAS. It also offers after-school activities that range from creative writing to sports.

• Fee: From AED 38,450 to AED 78,968
• Grades: Pre-primary to Grade 12
• Curriculum: American
• KHDA rating: Very Good
• Location: Al Badia, Dubai Festival City
• Contact: +971-4-524-0444

AMERICAN SCHOOL OF DUBAI

American School of Dubai is another non-profit, independent school offering education until Grade 12. The school was established in 1966 and has steadily grown in size and has enhanced its reputation.

American School of Dubai offers rigorous learning programmes in Dubai. From arts to athletics, various educational activities are conducted at ASD. Students can also participate in after-school recreation or aquatic programmes.

• Fee: From AED 57,680 to AED 85,057
• Grades: Pre-primary to Grade 12
• Curriculum: American
• KHDA rating: Good
• Location: Al Barsha
• Contact: +971-4-395-0005

FAQS ABOUT SCHOOLS IN DUBAI

WHICH ARE THE TOP PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN DUBAI?

The top primary schools in Dubai are Dubai English Speaking School (DESS), Jumeirah English Speaking School and King’s School Dubai.

WHICH ARE THE TOP MONTESSORI SCHOOLS IN DUBAI?

The top Montessori schools in Dubai are Little Land Nursery, New Indian Model School and Redwood Montessori Nursery.

That wraps up our list of schools in Dubai. Given the demographic diversity of Dubai, there are plenty of options when it comes to curriculum. Apart from these schools, Filipino schools in Dubai offer a great learning experience.

Budding entrepreneurs can consider the best business universities in Dubai that offer undergraduate and postgraduate management and business administration programmes.

Please note that the information about schools in Dubai fees and KHDA rating tends to change for a new academic year. Please check the official KHDA website for the latest information.