Best International Schools in Dubai

Discover the best International Schools in Dubai in this 2026 guide. Explore top-rated schools, tuition costs, parent reviews, and more.

Best International Schools in Dubai


International Schools in Dubai are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best International Schools in Dubai, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
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225 International Schools
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$9.2K–$30K Annual Cost
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British, IB, American, Indian, MoE, French, Iranian, Pakistani, Philippine, Swiss, SABIS, Russian, Japanese, Australian, Chinese, German Curricula
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English, Arabic, French Languages

Compare International Schools in Dubai

The comparison table highlights the most relevant schools. The full list is available below. Click on column headers to sort.

School City Type Curriculum Ages Tuition
The Arbor SchoolVerified Dubai International School British Curriculum 3–18 AED 49,500–90,250
GEMS Modern AcademyVerified Dubai International School CISCE Curriculum, IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme 6–18 AED 30,272–63,792
Deira International SchoolVerified Dubai International School British Curriculum, Career-related Programme, IB Curriculum 3–18 AED 43,592–87,825
Repton SchoolVerified Dubai Boarding School British Curriculum, Career-related Programme, IB Curriculum 3–18 AED 55,865–100,394
Dubai International AcademyVerified Dubai International School Career-related Programme, IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme 4–7 AED 43,946–77,866
Nord Anglia International School DubaiVerified Dubai International School British Curriculum, IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme 3–18 AED 68,026–102,871
GEMS Wellington International School – Dubai BranchVerified Dubai International School British Curriculum, Career-related Programme, IB Curriculum 3–18 AED 46,436–101,025
Jumeirah English Speaking SchoolVerified Dubai International School British Curriculum 3–11 AED 48,331–59,728
Lycee Francais Jean Mermoz Dubai International School French Curriculum 6–16 AED 38,875–63,150
Lycee Francais Jean Mermoz South Dubai International School French Curriculum 6–18 AED 45,000–74,000

Top International Schools in Dubai

Showing 24 of 225 schools

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The Arbor SchoolVerified School

🏫 International School British Curriculum British Curriculum 🗣️ English 👥 1,500 🌍 87+ nations
Annual Tuition 50K–90K AED
Verified Oct 2025
World’s Best School for Environmental Action (2025 global winner)
British curriculum shaped by sustainability, creativity and character
Thriving arts and sports culture supporting wellbeing and confidence

GEMS Modern AcademyVerified School

🏫 International School 📚 CISCE Curriculum IB Curriculum IB Curriculum 🗣️ English🗣️ Hindi 👥 3,840
Annual Tuition 30K–64K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Unmatched Innovation Lab Experience
Outstanding dual curriculum school
Multilingual Education Approach

Dubai International AcademyVerified School

🏫 International School 📚 Career-related Programme IB Curriculum IB Curriculum 🗣️ Arabic🗣️ English 👥 2,760
Annual Tuition 44K–78K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Outstanding DSIB rating
IB Diploma average of 38+
Innovative STEAM learning spaces

Deira International SchoolVerified School

🏫 International School British Curriculum British Curriculum 📚 Career-related Programme 🗣️ English 👥 1,879 🌍 75+ nations
Annual Tuition 44K–88K AED
Verified Nov 2025
70,000 sqm state-of-the-art campus
Accredited IB World School
75 nationalities embraced

Repton SchoolVerified School

🏫 Boarding School British Curriculum British Curriculum 📚 Career-related Programme 🗣️ English 👥 2,329
Annual Tuition 56K–100K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Dual UK/IB curriculum offered
Outstanding KHDA rating for 10 years
Unique purpose-built campus design

Swiss International School Dubai

🏫 Boarding School 📚 Career-related Programme IB Curriculum IB Curriculum 🗣️ Bilingual🗣️ English 👥 2,155 🌍 45+ nations
Annual Tuition 67K–135K AED
black star icon 1 1 black star icon 1 1 black star icon 1 1 black star icon 1 1 black star icon 1 1 5/5 (4 reviews)
Verified Nov 2025
320 students in IBDP annually
Exclusive Swiss curriculum focus
First IB school in Dubai's UAE

Kings’ School Dubai

🏫 International School British Curriculum British Curriculum 🗣️ English 👥 1,144
Annual Tuition 46K–70K AED
Verified Nov 2025
UAE's only Outstanding-rated school
Exclusive scholarship programs offere
Single-campus from FS1 to Y13

Al Adab Iranian Private School for Boys

🏫 International School 📚 Career-related Programme IB Curriculum IB Curriculum 🗣️ English 👥 160
Annual Tuition 9.5K–20K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Unique Iranian-IB dual curriculum
Strong focus on Persian cultural valu
Small student body fosters close ties

Al Arqm Private School

🏫 International School 📚 MoE Curriculum 🗣️ Arabic 👥 958
Annual Tuition 8.4K–18K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Ministry of Education curriculum
Diverse nationalities in student body
Acceptable DSIB rating for growth

Al Diyafah High School

🏫 International School British Curriculum British Curriculum 🗣️ English 👥 1,716
Annual Tuition 9.3K–20K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Holistic education since 1982
Diverse sports facilities available
Specialized IGCSE preparation

Al Eman Educational EST

🏫 International School 📚 MoE Curriculum 🗣️ Arabic 👥 308
Annual Tuition 6.2K–9.2K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Ministry of Education curriculum
Established community focus
Small class sizes for attention

Al Ittihad Private School

🏫 International School American Curriculum American Curriculum 🗣️ Arabic 👥 1,542
Annual Tuition 18K–41K AED
Verified Nov 2025
Specialized American Curriculum
Dedicated STEAM programs
Innovative learning environments

201 more schools to discover

Why Choose International Schools in Dubai

Families choose international schools in Dubai for their robust academic programs, cultural diversity, and excellent facilities. These schools not only prepare students for global higher education but also foster a deep understanding and appreciation of global cultures, ensuring holistic development and readiness for the world stage.

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Academic Excellence and Diverse Curricula

One of the primary reasons families gravitate towards international schools in Dubai is their commitment to academic excellence. These schools often offer a variety of internationally recognized curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British GCSEs, and American AP programs, which are revered for their robustness and comprehensive approach to education. This diversity in educational programs not only prepares students for global higher education opportunities but also caters to the varied educational backgrounds and preferences of Dubai’s multicultural population.

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Cultural Diversity and Inclusion

Another compelling draw is the rich cultural diversity that permeates the classrooms and hallways of these schools. In a city as cosmopolitan as Dubai, international schools serve as melting pots of cultures, ethnicities, and languages, offering students a unique environment where they can learn from each other and develop a genuine appreciation for global cultures. This exposure is invaluable, fostering global citizens equipped with the empathy, respect, and communication skills needed in today’s interconnected world.

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State-of-the-Art Facilities and Extracurricular Opportunities

International schools in Dubai are also known for their state-of-the-art facilities which rival those of private schools around the world. From Olympic-sized swimming pools and sprawling sports fields to advanced science labs and art studios, these institutions spare no expense to ensure that their facilities help foster a conducive learning environment. Beyond academics, these schools offer a plethora of extracurricular activities that support all-round development, including sports, arts, debate, and various clubs. These activities are integral for holistic education, allowing students to explore and develop their interests and talents beyond the classroom.

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Preparation for Global Universities

Preparing students for admission into top global universities is another crucial aspect of Dubai’s international schools. With comprehensive guidance counseling and support systems in place, students receive tailored advice on choosing the right path for their future academic and career goals. The schools’ strong alumni networks and connections with universities across the globe also play a significant role in opening doors for their graduates.

The choice of an international school in Dubai often reflects a broader desire for quality education that prepares children for the challenges and opportunities of a globalized world. With their unparalleled resources, diverse programs, and commitment to fostering international mindedness, these schools stand out as a premier choice for families looking to give their children a world-class education in a dynamic and supportive setting.

How much does it cost to attend International Schools in Dubai?

The yearly tuition fees for international schools in Dubai generally range from $8,000 to $25,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, campus facilities, and services offered — with some top-tier schools exceeding $40,000 annually.

Category Low Range High Range
Annual Tuition $8,000 $25,000
Monthly Equivalent $670
Registration Fee (one-time) $500 $1,500
School Trips $500 $2,000
Total Estimated Annual Cost $9,200 $30,000

Note: Costs shown are estimates based on available data. Contact schools directly for current fee structures. Additional costs may include transportation, meals, extracurricular activities, and exam fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are currently 225 international schools in Dubai. These schools offer curricula including British, IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme, American. Our directory is regularly updated.

Annual tuition fees for international schools in Dubai typically range from $9,200 to $30,000 per year. We recommend contacting schools directly for detailed fee structures and scholarship opportunities.

International Schools in Dubai offer curricula including British, IB Curriculum, IB Diploma Programme, American, Indian Curriculum. The IB programme offers a globally recognized diploma. British schools typically offer IGCSEs and A-Levels. American schools follow the US curriculum with AP courses.

When selecting an international school in Dubai, consider:

  • Accreditation: Look for CIS, NEASC, or similar recognition
  • Curriculum: Match to your family's mobility plans
  • Language support: ESL/EAL programs if needed
  • Community: Diversity of student body
  • Transition support: Important for expat families

Use our school profiles and comparison tools to make an informed decision.

International Schools in Dubai accept students from 3 to 18 years old. This covers early years through high school, with each school having specific grade levels. Use our age filters to find schools matching your child's specific needs.

The admission process typically includes:

  • Application: Submit forms and required documents
  • Academic records: Transcripts and recommendations
  • Assessment: Entrance tests or interviews may be required
  • School visit: Tours and meetings with admissions

Contact schools directly for specific requirements and deadlines.

Updated January 21, 2026 · Coverage: Dubai · Verified by World Schools