Dubai’s public schools, renowned globally for their top-notch educational standards, offer the UAE national curriculum, advanced facilities, and an inclusive learning environment. This ensures that your child receives a high-quality education, setting them on a path to success.
From the best schools to the admission process, this blog is a comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of Public Schools in Dubai. It’s a must-read for every resident who wants to be fully prepared when making educational decisions.
Understanding the Public School System in Dubai
Dubai has a well-established public school system governed by the Ministry of Education. The schools are equipped with modern resources to maximise the learning experience.
Co-curricular and professional development activities are also important, along with a strict academic routine. However, government schools in the entire UAE are strictly segregated except for the pre-primary level.
Stages of Education
The school system in Dubai is categorised into the following stages.
- Pre-primary (KG1 and KG2)
- Primary (Grades 1 to 4)
- Intermediate (Grades 6 to 8)
- Secondary (Grades 9 to 12)
- Tertiary (Post-secondary education in colleges & universities)
Streams of Education
Dubai’s public schools offer various educational streams, ensuring that every student can find the best fit for their diverse learning needs. These streams include the General, Professional, Advanced, and Elite, each catering to different academic interests and abilities.
- General: Basic stream from which every student begins in grade 1.
- Professional: The professional or vocational stream is chosen after grade 8 and continues till grade 12.
- Advanced: After completing grade 9, students can stick to the general stream or move to the advanced one, depending on their academic performance.
- Elite: This one is specifically for outstanding achievers. It begins in grade 6 and lasts till grade 12.
Curriculum in Public Schools of Dubai
In Dubai, all government schools unanimously follow the UAE national curriculum. Arabic is designated as the standard language of instruction and occupies a significant part of the curriculum. This means that students will be taught in Arabic for most subjects. Meanwhile, English is learned as a second language and is used for technical and scientific lessons.
Meanwhile, English is learned as a second language and is used for technical and scientific lessons.
Public School Admissions in Dubai
You can apply for admission to the public schools of Dubai via the Emirates Schools Establishment website. The process typically involves submitting an application form, providing necessary documents such as the student’s passport and visa, and paying the required fees. However, there are different conditions and charges for citizens and foreigners.
For Emiratis
Public school education in the UAE is absolutely free for Emiratis. Moreover, UAE passport holders and GCC citizens are not obliged to pay tuition fees.
For Expatriates
Foreigners have to pay tuition fees of AED 6000, while the following conditions need to be fulfilled as well:
- Students can be admitted in grades 2 to 12 only
- UAE residence visa of student and parents must be valid
- Student’s grades should not fall below 85% in Arabic, Mathematics, and English
- The parent of the student has a government or semi-government job or works in a local entity
- There can only be 20% international students in every classroom
The Best Public Schools in Dubai
Dubai’s public schools offer advanced learning while prioritising cultural and Islamic education. Some of the most popular public schools in Dubai are given below.
Rashid School for Boys
RSB is one of the most preferred educational institutions for boys in Dubai. It provides quality education from the pre-primary to the secondary level. UK curriculum is followed in this school combined with the UAE curriculum.
Besides traditional academic education, technology, and design subjects are also taught here.
- Address: Nad-al-Sheba, Dubai, UAE
- Contact: +971 4 336 1300
Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Islamic Institute
This school focuses heavily on Islamic education and integrates it deeply into the curriculum. It provides formal education for boys from grades 5 to 12 while emphasising vocational and job skills. Its teaching methods reflect cultural traditions and Islamic beliefs.
- Address: Dubai Academic City, Dubai, UAE
- Contact: +971 4 368 8532
Islamic School for Training & Education in Dubai
This governmental institution provides practical education while integrating core Islamic values. Their vision is to prepare the students for research and development in the financial and technological sectors. There is also a strong focus on the Arabic language.
- Address: Muhaisnah – Muhaisnah 1, Dubai, UAE
- Contact:+971 4 264 6001
Amna Bint Wahab School for Girls
This renowned public school, situated in Deira, is designated for girls and offers quality education from 10 to 12 grade. While advanced subjects are taught, the school mainly focuses on preaching Islamic education.
- Address: 4 19A Street – Deira – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Contact:+971 4 271 8693
Latifa School of Girls
Latifa School of Girls is another popular choice among female students in Dubai. It prioritises learning English as much as Arabic. Its teaching methods are personalised and tailored to each student’s distinct needs.
- Address: Nad al Sheba, Dubai, UAE
- Contact: +971 4 336 1065
Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government
MBSRG is one of the top public institutes providing postgraduate training and education in Dubai. It offers government-funded programs focusing on public policy and development.
A research-centric school that empowers students to excel in economic and management sectors.
- Address: Level 13 Convention Tower, DWTC, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, UAE
- Contact:+971 4 264 6001
FAQs
Dubai’s primary and secondary public schools are free for Emiratis; however, expatriates must pay the fees.
If certain conditions are fulfilled, expatriates can attend public schools in Dubai after paying a fee of AED 6000.
The Ministry of Education has made Arabic compulsory in all UAE schools. It is a core part of the UAE national curriculum.
The blog covers all about public schools in Dubai so you can make an informed decision about your child’s future.
With a strong focus on academic excellence, cultural awareness, and holistic development, these schools provide a robust foundation for students. Whether you’re a new resident or considering options for your child’s education, Dubai’s public schools are equipped to deliver quality learning experiences.
If you want more information about life in the UAE, keep reading the Property Finder blog.
