Moving to Dubai with your family is exciting, but one of the biggest priorities for parents is finding the right school for their children.
Dubai is home to one of the most diverse education systems in the world, with schools catering to multiple curricula, nationalities, and learning styles.
Whether you are relocating as an expat or settling long-term, understanding how schooling in Dubai works will help you make the right decision for your child’s education and your family’s lifestyle.
Education system in Dubai
Dubai’s education system is regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which oversees private schools and ensures quality standards. The city offers a wide range of curricula, giving parents flexibility to choose what best suits their child’s background and future plans.
The main school curriculums in Dubai include:
British Curriculum (UK National Curriculum): Popular among expats, leading to IGCSE and A-Level qualifications.
American Curriculum: Focused on broad subject choices, ending with a high school diploma and SATs.
Indian Curriculum (CBSE & ICSE): A strong option for Indian expat families, offering continuity with home-country standards.
IB (International Baccalaureate): A globally recognised program known for academic rigour and focus on critical thinking.
Other options: French, German, Australian, Canadian, and Japanese curricula are also available in Dubai.
Cost of schools in Dubai
Tuition fees in Dubai vary widely depending on the school, curriculum, and grade level.
In addition to tuition, parents should budget for uniforms, transportation, books, extracurricular activities, and exam fees.
Admissions process in Dubai
School admissions in Dubai can be competitive, especially for popular schools. Most schools open applications 6–12 months in advance, so it’s important to start early.
Steps usually include:
Espace community specialists’ pro-tip: Many schools maintain waitlists, so having a backup option is advisable.
Top school areas in Dubai
Where you live in Dubai often determines which schools are most convenient. Popular communities for families include:
Emirates Living: Close to Dubai International Academy, Emirates International School.
Arabian Ranches: Home to Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS).
Jumeirah: King’s School Dubai, Raffles International.
Dubai Silicon Oasis: GEMS Wellington Academy, Repton School Dubai.
Dubai Hills Estate: North London Collegiate School, Dubai American Academy.
Extracurriculars and beyond the classroom
Schools in Dubai place strong emphasis on extracurricular activities. Sports, performing arts, robotics, Model United Nations (MUN), and community volunteering are all widely encouraged.
Many schools also have partnerships with international organisations, allowing students to participate in global competitions and exchange programs.
Tips for parents moving to Dubai with children
Plan early: Apply well before you move, as spots fill quickly.
Visit in person: Touring the campus can help you assess facilities and culture.
Check KHDA ratings: Schools are inspected annually and rated from Outstanding to Weak.
Factor in commute: Dubai traffic can be heavy, so choose a school near your community.
Budget wisely: Fees can rise annually (capped by KHDA), so account for increases.
Thinking about Dubai for your children’s education?
Whether you are seeking a British, American, IB, or Indian curriculum, there is a school in Dubai to fit your child’s academic journey and your family’s needs.
By understanding the education system, costs, and admission requirements, parents can confidently make the move!
Looking for residential communities nearby to schools in Dubai?
You can browse some of our villas for sale near school communities, and if you are planning to rent in Dubai, take a look at our villas for rent in Dubai, near school communities.
As a truly customer-centric real estate agency, we offer a range of related services that are designed to make your property journey stress-free and successful from start to end.
