Choosing the Right School for Families Moving to Dubai

Dubai School Guide for Families: Top 5 Schools and Fees and Registration Information

Choosing the right school for families moving to Dubai can be challenging, and the process can be daunting. The United Arab Emirates, Dubai, stands out not only for its dazzling skyscrapers and luxurious lifestyle but also for its high-quality international education options. Every year, hundreds of families choose private schools in Dubai for their children's education. However, one of the biggest questions when moving to Dubai is: Which school should I choose for my child? In this blog post, we review the top 5 private schools in and around Dubai, covering important details such as their education systems, termly tuition fees, English proficiency requirements, and transportation and meal services. You will also find practical information about the documents required for the registration process.
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5 Schools Most Commonly Chosen in Dubai

Dubai has become an attractive hub for families from around the world, offering a wide range of options in international education. Certain schools stand out for their educational quality, alignment with global curricula, and multicultural structure, making them a frequent choice among families living in the city. Leading the way are Citizen School Jumeirah, which stands out for its project-based learning approach; Al Ittihad Private School Al Mamzar, known for its cultural sensitivity and American curriculum; GEMS Wellington International School, which excels in academic achievement; Dubai International Academy (DIA), which offers a comprehensive IB program; and Repton School Dubai, which continues the traditional British approach to education. These schools are trusted by families not only for their academic excellence but also for their social development programs, language support, transportation, and nutrition services.

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Detailed Overview of the Most Preferred International Schools in Dubai

1. Citizen School – Jumeirah

Location: Jumeirah 1, Dubai
Tuition Fee: 50,000 AED per term (fees may vary by ±15%)
Curriculum: British National Curriculum with a project-based learning approach

English Language Requirement:
Basic English proficiency is sufficient for primary grades.
Higher grades may require an IELTS or TOEFL equivalent level.
An English language support program is available for international students.
School Transport: Air-conditioned, GPS-tracked and secure school bus service
Meals: The on-campus cafeteria offers balanced and healthy meals daily

Required Documents for School Enrollment:

  • Student and parent passports and Emirates ID
  • Academic transcripts from the previous school
  • Medical report and vaccination record
  • Birth certificate (translated and MOFA-attested)
  • Valid UAE visa copies

Citizen School Jumeirah stands out among Dubai international schools with its modern learning philosophy and child-centered education model.

 

2. Al Ittihad Private School – Al Mamzar

Location: Al Mamzar, Dubai
Tuition Fee: 25,000 AED per term (fees may vary by ±15%)
Curriculum: American Curriculum

English Language Requirement:
- Students are required to take an English proficiency assessment
- Additional English language support classes are provided when needed

School Transport: Regular and safe school bus service available across Dubai
Meals: Daily school meals provided; students may also bring lunch from home

Required Documents for Enrollment:

  • Birth certificate (translated and MOFA-attested)
  • Student passport and Emirates ID
  • Vaccination card
  • School reports from the last two academic years

Al Ittihad Private School is a popular choice for families looking for a culturally respectful, American-curriculum-based education in Dubai.

 

 

3. GEMS Wellington International School

Location: Al Sufouh, Dubai
Registration Fee: Approximately 45,000 AED per year (prices may vary ± 15%)
Education System: British Curriculum + IB Diploma

Language Requirements:
- Intermediate to advanced level English proficiency is required for admission.
- English language support programs are available for students who need improvement.

School Transport: Safe and reliable school bus services equipped with smart GPS tracking systems
Meals: Nutritious and balanced meal plans prepared by certified nutritionists

Required Documents for Registration:

  • IELTS/TOEFL test results (required for certain grade levels)
  • Academic transcripts, health reports, and valid identification documents
  • Birth certificate (translated and MOFA apostilled)
  • Passport and Emirates ID copies

GEMS Wellington International School is a top choice among international families in Dubai seeking a high-quality education with strong university preparation programs.

 

4. Dubai International Academy (DIA)

Location: Emirates Hills, Dubai
Registration Fee: Approximately 40,000 AED per year (prices may vary ± 15%)
Education System: Fully accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) program including PYP, MYP, and DP

Language Requirements:
- Advanced English proficiency is mandatory due to the rigorous IB curriculum.
- Admissions include entrance exams and interviews to assess language and academic readiness.

School Transport: Regular, safe transportation services covering key routes in Dubai
Meals: Healthy meal options with customized dietary support

Required Documents for Registration:

  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • School report cards from the past two academic years
  • Health certificates and valid ID documents
  • Birth certificate (translated and MOFA apostilled)
  • Passport and Emirates ID copies

Dubai International Academy is highly recommended for families looking for a challenging academic environment and a pathway to prestigious international universities.

 

5. Repton School Dubai

Location: Nad Al Sheba, Dubai
Registration Fee: 52,000 AED per year (prices may vary ± 15%)
Education System: British Curriculum combined with IGCSE and IB Diploma programs

Language Requirements:
- Applicants must demonstrate high English language proficiency.
- The admission process includes comprehensive written and oral assessments.

School Transport: Secure transportation with GPS tracking ensures student safety
Meals: Hygienic and healthy canteen menus meeting international standards

Required Documents for Registration:

  • Academic recommendation letters
  • Vaccination records and up-to-date health reports
  • Valid identification and residency documentation

Repton School Dubai offers a prestigious British education experience with modern campus facilities, making it a preferred choice for expat families in Dubai.

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General Document Checklist for School Registrations in Dubai

When enrolling in private schools in Dubai, the following essential documents are generally required:

  • Student and guardian passports
  • Emirates ID (if available)
  • Visa and residency documents
  • School reports from the last 1-2 years
  • Vaccination card and health check report
  • Birth certificate (certified with Apostille - MOFA)
  • English proficiency certificate (if available)

School Transport and Meal Services in Dubai

Schools in Dubai typically provide GPS-tracked and air-conditioned school buses to ensure student safety. Many schools offer live tracking of buses through dedicated mobile applications.

Meal services are usually provided through school canteens or contracted external catering companies.

Meal options include vegetarian, allergen-friendly, and special diet menus. Some schools also allow the option to bring meals from home.

What to Consider When Choosing a School in Dubai?

Key factors to consider when selecting a school in Dubai include:

  • Curriculum suited to your child’s age and English proficiency level
  • Tuition fees that fit your family’s budget (termly or annual)
  • School location and availability of transport routes
  • Availability of English language support programs
  • Quality of meal and healthcare services
  • Ease of the registration process and availability of professional guidance

Every child has unique learning styles and needs. Therefore, in a multicultural city like Dubai, finding an educational environment where your child can thrive both academically and socially is of great importance.

We're Here to Help You with School Registration Processes with World Company Setup

Choosing a school and the enrollment process in Dubai involves many details, such as gathering documents, English proficiency, and official procedures. World Company Setup offers professional school enrollment consulting to simplify all the challenges families face during this process. We are with you every step of the way, from determining which school is right for your child to preparing documents and following up on official applications.

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