Dubai’s schools are not just academic institutions but places of quality and innovation. Their educational system is of the highest calibre, promoting creativity, critical thinking and global citizenship.
In this article, we will explore the best private schools in Dubai for 2024, according to their ratings and the communities in which they are located.
- Private Schools Ratings in Dubai
- What Are the Factors for Evaluating Each School?
- Dubai Communities With Top-Rated Private Schools
Private Schools Ratings in Dubai
Dubai Private School Rating System evaluates the performance and quality of private schools in the city. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) conducts this rating to provide parents, teachers and stakeholders with clear insights into the school’s education and standards.
Here’s what each rating means:
1. Outstanding
This rating means the school performs at its highest level in all areas. It has exceptionally high standards in teaching, leadership, student achievement and social and personal development. An outstanding-rated school’s resources are state-of-the-art, fully supporting learning and development.
2. Very Good
This rating indicates that the school performs well and is above average in most areas, with substantial strength and only minor areas of improvement. The very good-rated schools offer excellent resources and facilities to enhance the educational experience.
3. Good
A good school rating means the school meets the required standards and offers a high-quality educational experience. Though there are a few areas of improvement, the schools provide great resources and facilities.
4. Acceptable
An acceptable rating indicates that the school meets the minimum requirements but has several areas that need improvement. Teaching needs to be more consistent, with both effective practices and improvement.
An acceptable-rated school can provide basic facilities and resources, which may not fully support all educational needs.
5. Weak
A weak rating means that the school needs to meet the required standards in several critical areas. Ineffective teaching practices lead to low student engagement and below-expected levels of achievement and progress.
What Are the Factors for Evaluating Each School?
The KHDA is rigorous in inspecting each school for its rating. It evaluates English, Science, and Maths, the quality of teachers, students’ progress, and leadership.
However, in the recent inspections, KHDA added an Arabic assessment. The inspections also aim to assess how private schools in Dubai are self-evaluating themselves.
Dubai Communities With Top-Rated Private Schools
There are many top schools in Dubai with outstanding and very good ratings. Here are some of the best private schools in Dubai, community-wise, with their address, curriculums and fee structures.
Al-Barsha
Al-Barsha is a vibrant community with innovative accessibility, modern amenities, and a friendly environment. This neighbourhood is home to several facilities, like the Mall of the Emirates, which is a famous one if you are on a shopping spree.
Well-connected to the Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha is one of the communities popular among expats, as there are several rental options.
Not just that, the area’s proximity to Ski Dubai, food streets, and Wadi Water Park is a joy for residents. You can also easily access the Dubai Metro from Al Barsha, making it a residency location worth considering.
Find below the top schools in Al Barsha with Outstanding ratings from the KHDA.
1. GEMS Dubai American Academy
GEMS Dubai Academy is famous for its strong curriculum. Its diverse and inclusive environment makes it one of the best private schools in Dubai. Besides, it is among the best American schools in Dubai, providing high-quality academic education. It offers modern extracurricular activities and updated facilities to develop well-rounded global citizens.
Moreover, Gems Dubai American Academy has a dedicated Arabic learning room and other facilities, such as a tennis court, basketball court, soccer pitches, and music, art, and drama studios.
| Address | Hessa Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 63,026 to AED 88,848 annually |
| Grades | Kindergarten to Grade 12 |
| Curriculum | International Baccalaureate (IB)/ American |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 704 9777 |
2. Safa Community School
Safa Community School provides a British curriculum that strongly focuses on the student’s academic excellence and character development. The school is known for its inclusive community atmosphere, excellent ministerial care, and various extracurricular activities.
Here, the students can find sports grounds, libraries, art rooms, science labs and drama and dance studios.
| Address | Al Barsha South First, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 51,190 to AED 84,000 annually |
| Grades | Foundation Stage to Grade 13 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum/ International Baccalaureate |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 385 1810 |
3. Nord Anglia International School Dubai
The Nord Anglia International School is distinguished by providing personalised learning with academic excellence. With an average class size of 20-22 students, it is known for offering a learning environment with full access to global educational collaborations and top-notch facilities like sports, music, arts, drama and fitness.
Making it a go-to option if you’re living in the Al Barsha area or close to it.
| Address | Al Barsha 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Fees | AED 66,300 to AED 100,200 annually |
| Grades | Foundation Stage to Grade 13 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum/ International Baccalaureate |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 219 9999 |
Dubai Academic City
As the name suggests, Dubai Academic City is an education hub, with several schools and universities within the community. Located near Dubai to Al Ain Road, the neighbourhood has widespread amenities and facilities. Compared to other Dubai areas, you can find affordable residency options in the Academic City.
While you might have to drive a little longer to shop or find other entertainment options, the schools will be much closer. Let’s take a look at the top schools in Academic City.
1. Dubai English Speaking College
Dubai English Speaking College (DESC) is renowned for its British curriculum. It offers a high-quality education that emphasises academic excellence and personal development.
The school provides many extracurricular activities, outstanding facilities and a supportive learning environment. Besides, it’s among the top private schools in Dubai according to KHDA ratings for 2023-2024.
| Address | Dubai Academic City |
| Fees | AED 41,427 to AED 87,147 annually |
| Grades | Class 7 to Class 12 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 360 4866 |
2. German International School Dubai
If you want your kids to get a German education, Dubai Academic City has one of the best in the city. German International School Dubai provides a comprehensive German curriculum focusing on academic excellence, bilingual education, and cultural exchange.
Additionally, the school is well-equipped with modern facilities like libraries, visual art rooms, science labs and fitness rooms. It offers a variety of extracurricular activities, ensuring that all students’ interests and talents are developed.
| Address | Academic City, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 44,398 to AED 71,094 annually |
| Grades | Pre-Primary to Grade 12 |
| Curriculum | German Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Very Good |
| Contact Number | +971 4 456 2718 |
Arabian Ranches
If you love a peaceful and serene environment, Arabian Ranches is a perfect residency option, with different types of villas. The community is relatively new but has several services, including top-rated private schools in Dubai.
Located in Dubai’s outskirts, Arabian Ranches is away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. That said, the luxurious lifestyle is still part of the community, with family-friendly amenities and facilities nearby.
1. Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) Arabian Ranches
Offering the British curriculum, the Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) offers high-quality education and community spirit for students aged 3-19.
The school provides top-notch facilities and has been recognised as the world leader in delivering quality and international education. This makes it no surprise for such an entity to get an Outstanding rating by KHDA for 2023-2024
| Address | Arabian Ranches, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 48,330 to AED 100,578 annually |
| Grades | Foundation Stage to Grade 13 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 361 9019 |
2. Ranches Primary School
Ranches Primary School is a well-known institute with a holistic academic and personal development approach. It is part of the Cognita Family of Schools, which is known for its academic excellence, character development, and global perspective.
With small class sizes, the school focuses on individual attention and a supportive environment.
| Address | Arabian Ranches 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Fees | AED 49,278 to AED 60,228 annually |
| Grades | Foundation Stage to Year 6 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Very Good |
| Contact Number | +971 4 442 9765 |
Nad Al Sheba
Another quiet and peaceful community in Dubai is Nad Al Sheba. To add sporting energy, the community is home to Meydan Racecourse. Moreover, it features cycling and running tracks for fitness enthusiasts.
If you are seeking luxurious housing options with top-notch amenities and facilities, Nad Al Sheba can be your ideal abode. Also, the upcoming Meydan One Mall will add to the family-friendly facilities in the area.
1. Repton School Dubai
The Repton School offers both British and IB curriculums, providing its students with the highest-quality education and facilities. It is accredited by the Council of British International Schools in the Middle East.
Repton is famous for its top-rated academic standards and activities like swimming, art, drama, and music. This shapes the students’ skills academically, personally, and socially.
| Address | Nad Al Sheba 3, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 55,865 to AED 100,394 annually |
| Grades | Foundation Stage to Year 13 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum and International Baccalaureate (IB) |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 426 9393 |
2. GEMS Modern Academy
For Indian Expats, your children can still get their national education in Dubai, and this school is one of the top options. GEMS Modern Academy provides a curriculum based on the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP). Moreover, it is one of the best Indian schools in Dubai.
GEMS Modern Academy is accredited by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations and the International Baccalaureate Organisation. Apart from that, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and the Dubai SME Certified Incubator School have also certified this school.
Not only that, excellent student life with several national games, debate competitions and community outreach develops the student’s social skills. Career counselling is another thing that distinguishes this school from others and makes it a popular choice.
| Address | Nad Al Sheba 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates |
| Fees | AED 30,272 to AED 72,180 annually |
| Grades | Pre-Primary to Grade 12 |
| Curriculum | ICSE and IB |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 326 3339 |
3. Kings’ School Nad Al Sheba L.L.C
The King’s School is popularly known for its emphasis on character development and academic excellence for students aged 2-15. Moreover, King’s School goes beyond the classrooms. Their Parent’s Portal allows booking for different events and provides essential information about your children’s progress.
Offering school trips, healthy competitions, competitive sports and holiday camps, King’s School elevates your kids’ educational experience. Besides, with an experienced and professional team, your children will surely excel on an academic level.
| Address | Nad Al Sheba 3, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 42,271 to AED 94,400 annually |
| Year Group | ECC (1-2) to Year 13 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Very Good |
| Contact Number | +971 4 337 0555 |
Oud Mehta
Oud Mehta is located in the bustling and old area of Bur Dubai. Famous for its budget-friendly rental properties, you can find several affordable Indian schools. When it comes to transportation, there are metro and bus stations within the community, giving you various options to commute around the city with convenience.
The sub-community is home to several educational and health facilities. Speaking of educational institutions, check out these top schools in Oud Mehta, rated highly by KHDA:
1. Dubai English Speaking School
Established in 1963, the Dubai English Speaking School (DESS) is one of the oldest and best British schools in Dubai. It includes modern classrooms, well-equipped libraries and sports fields for its students.
Not only is DESS unique in its offerings, but it also boasts several inclusive programs like Parents in Partnership (PiP). Through this program, parents are invited to different community events and children’s competitions, making them an integral part of their kids’ educational experience.
DESS also adopts an instrumental learning approach, which focuses on using practical, hands-on activities and real-world experiences to teach concepts and skills, making learning more relevant and engaging for students.
| Address | Oud Metha, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 41,427 to AED 51,269 annually |
| Grades | Foundation Stage to Year 6 |
| Curriculum | British Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 337 1457 |
2. Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou School
Are you looking for a reputable and notable school offering a French curriculum? If yes, then look no further than the Lycee Francais (LFIGP) school. It’s among the best private schools in Dubai with an Outstanding rating from KHDA, which reflects the high quality of education and experience it offers.
In addition, it features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories and sports complexes to support an all-inclusive education.
Not only does the school focus on the educational side, but the LFIGP school also has a system for sports learning. This helps students develop their cognitive and physical skills.
While the Oud Metha branch of this school offers pre-primary and kindergarten classes, the Dubai branch offers Grade 1 to Grade 12 classes.
| Address | Oud Metha, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 30,558 to AED 49,536 annually |
| Grades | Pre-Primary to Kindergarten |
| Curriculum | French Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Outstanding |
| Contact Number | +971 4 337 4161 |
3. The Indian High School
The Indian High School (IHS) was founded in 1961. It is one of the most established and best CBSE schools in Dubai yet one of the most affordable schools in Dubai. Moreover, it is known for its strong academic performance, exciting extracurricular programs and state-of-the-art learning environment.
The Indian High School is highly rated and offers an excellent education without breaking the bank, making it an ideal choice for ensuring your kids receive the best education.
| Address | Oud Metha, Dubai |
| Fees | AED 5,525 to AED 10,465 annually |
| Grades | Year 5 to Year 12 |
| Curriculum | CBSE/Indian Curriculum |
| KHDA Rating | Very Good |
| Contact Number | +971 4 335 8851 |
According to their KHDA rating in 2024, these were some of the best private schools in Dubai. All the communities above host a wide range of top-rated schools with all necessary facilities and academic excellence.
To find the full list of the KHDA-rated private schools in Dubai for 2023-2024, just check the link below.
Remember to visit the schools and check their websites before choosing the best for your child.
