Top British Schools in Dubai

British schools in Dubai

Finding the right school for your child can be challenging, especially with so many options in Dubai. To make it easier, we’ve curated a list of the top British schools that excel in academics, facilities and inclusivity. These schools foster not only educational growth but also personal development, helping children become responsible members of society. Read on for details about their locations, fees and unique offerings.

British schools in Dubai

List of Outstanding British Schools in Dubai

Here is the roundup of the top British schools in Dubai, ranked ‘Outstanding’ by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in Dubai (KHDA).

Note: All schools in this list are based on the KHDA rating for 2023-2024. Also, it is advised to contact the school directly for the latest fee information, as fees may change annually.

1. King’s School Dubai

King’s School Dubai, located in Al Barsha, is renowned for its exceptional British curriculum. It stands out as the only school in the UAE to receive an ‘outstanding’ rating every year from the Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau. The school fosters a multicultural environment with around 950 students from over 60 nationalities, promoting diversity and intercultural understanding.

With multiple branches, King’s School offers impressive facilities, including a library, art studio, drama theatre and gymnasium. As one of the best private schools in Dubai, it focuses on developing students’ innovation skills and preparing them for future success.

Location

  • 26th Street, Umm Suqeim  
  • 3 26th Street, Nad Al Sheba 3 
  • Al Barsha 3

Contact

  • 26th Street, Umm Suqeim: +971-4-348-3939-
  • 3 26th Street, Nad Al Sheba 3: +971-4-237-5555 
  • Al Barsha 3: +971-4-356-6900

Annual Fees

AED 44,928 – AED 68,374

Grades

Foundation Stage – 6th Grade

2. Dubai College

Dubai College, also known as DC, is one of Dubai’s oldest and most prestigious British secondary schools. Established 43 years ago, it has earned a reputation for high standards and academic excellence. 

Its innovative teaching techniques provide students with unique experiences. With a strong commitment to academic achievement, the school boasts a rich history of student success. Moreover, it is also considered as one of the top schools for higher education in the UAE

Location

Al Sufouh, Al Sufouh 2

Contact

+971-4-399-9111

Annual Fees

AED 93,220 – AED 105,555

Grades

Year 7 – Year 13

3. Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS)

Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) in Arabian Ranches offers a high-quality British education for students aged 3-19. The school is noted for its outstanding facilities and community spirit, receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating by KHDA for the 2023-2024 academic year.

With a focus on holistic education, JESS promotes a sense of belonging and engagement among students. This helps enhance their overall learning experience.

Discussion in a classroom

Location

Arabian Ranches

Contact

+971-4-361-9019

Annual Fees

AED 48,330 – AED 100,578

Grades

Foundation Stage – Year 13

4. Dubai English Speaking School

Founded 56 years ago, Dubai English Speaking School (DESS) offers an inclusive British curriculum for primary and secondary education. With campuses for different age groups, DESS embraces diversity and promotes a supportive learning environment.

DESS is also one of the top schools in the UAE and is distinguished by its community-oriented programs. Such programs allow parents to engage in their children’s education.

Location

Oud Metha, Umm Harirar 2, Dubai

Contact

+971-4-337-1457

Annual Fees

AED 41,427 – AED 51,269

Grades

Foundation Stage – Year 6

5. Jumeirah College

Jumeirah College, established in 2013, is a non-profit British school in Dubai under the GEMS Education umbrella. It serves over 2,050 students and provides a curriculum that includes A Levels, AS Levels, GCSEs and the UK National Curriculum. The school prides itself on its inclusive approach and experienced British staff.

With extensive facilities, Jumeirah College aims to nurture students’ academic and personal growth while preparing them for future success.

Location

19th Street, off Al Wasl Road, Al Safa

Contact

+971-4-395-5524

Annual Fees

AED 77,133 – AED 94,415

Grades

Year 7 – Year 13

6. Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) – Al Safa

The Al Safa branch of Jumeirah English Speaking School offers a well-rounded British curriculum from Kindergarten to secondary education. The school’s dedicated staff fosters a creative and critical thinking environment, encouraging students to voice their opinions and explore their interests.

Located conveniently in Jumeirah, it provides a seamless transition for families in the area, promoting easy access to quality education.

Teacher and students in a class

Location

Al Safa, Jumeirah

Contact

+971-4-361-9019

Annual Fees

AED 48,331 – AED 159,728

Grades

FS1 – Year 6

7. Dubai British School Emirates Hills

Dubai British School Emirates Hills (DBSEH) is known for its strong community ethos and academic excellence. The school, located in the Emirates Hills area, offers a nurturing environment for over a thousand students aged 3 to 18.

DBSEH focuses on holistic development, encouraging students to excel academically and participate in extracurricular activities. The supportive relationships formed here greatly contribute to student success.

Location

The Town Centre, Springs 3, Emirates Hills

Contact

+971-4-361-9361

Annual Fees

Year 7 to Year 13: AED 93,220 – AED AED 105,555

Grades

Foundation Stage – Year 13

8. Dubai English Speaking College

Dubai English Speaking College (DESC) is known for its commitment to academic excellence and personal development. It offers a variety of extracurricular activities alongside a robust British curriculum, fostering a well-rounded education for students aged 11-18.

DESC provides a supportive and engaging learning environment, consistently achieving outstanding KHDA ratings, reflecting its high quality of education.

Location

Dubai Academic City

Contact

+971-4-360-4866

Annual Fees

AED 41,427 – AED 87,147

Grades

Class 7 – Class 12

9. Horizons English School LLC

Horizons English School focuses on primary and kindergarten education, providing a nurturing learning environment for young children. With UK-trained teachers, the school aims to cultivate students’ skills and talents through a variety of activities, including arts and music.

Located near Al Safa Park, Horizons fosters creativity and exploration in its students, ensuring a balanced education.

British schools in Dubai

Location

30B Street, Al Wasl

Contact

+971-4-342-2891

Annual Fees

AED 30,780 – AED 43,108

Grades

FS1 – Year 6

10. Deira International School

Deira International School (DIS) is one of the top schools in Deira. It is a well-regarded educational facility welcoming nearly 2,000 students from diverse backgrounds. The school is popular for its inclusive environment, providing quality British education from nursery through secondary school.

With a focus on academic and personal development, DIS is a notable choice for families in the Deira area.

Location

Near Orient Insurance Building, Dubai Festival City, Al Badia Boulevard

Contact

+971-4-232-5552

Annual Fees

AED 40,500 – AED 82,000

Grades

FS1 – Year 12

11. GEMS Jumeirah Primary School

GEMS Jumeirah Primary School is a prestigious institution in the heart of Jumeirah, offering an evolving curriculum for students. With a commitment to academic and personal achievement, the school aims to prepare children for future success in a supportive environment.

Celebrating 25 years of excellence, GEMS Jumeirah continues to evolve, focusing on high standards and innovative teaching methods.

Location

Street No. 19, Al Safa 1

Contact

+971-4-394-3500

Annual Fees

AED 43,185 – AED 54,435

Grades

FS1 – Year 6

12. Victory Heights Primary School

Victory Heights Primary School is a vibrant educational hub located in Dubai Sports City. The school is dedicated to nurturing students’ potential and fostering a love for learning. With a unique vision to ‘Nurture, Challenge and Excel’, it creates a supportive community for students.

Victory Heights offers a diverse curriculum, encouraging students to develop into confident individuals ready to excel in their future endeavours.

Attentive girl in a classroom

Location

Dubai Sports City

Contact

+971-4-560-2000

Annual Fees

AED 39,216 to AED 53,476

Grades

FS1 – Year 6

13. Nord Anglia International School LLC

Nord Anglia International School Dubai is a distinguished institution known for its diverse language offerings, including Arabic, German, Spanish, French and Mandarin. It is also considered one of the best IGCSE schools in Dubai. The school prioritises personal development alongside academic excellence, offering various activities for students beyond traditional studies.

The school’s focus on personalised learning in small class sizes (20-22 students) ensures an engaging educational experience.

Location

Al Barsha South

Contact

+971-4-219-9999

Annual Fees

AED 66,300 to AED 100,200 

Grades

FS1 to Grade 13

14. Safa Community School

Safa Community School offers a British curriculum that emphasises academic excellence and character development. Known for its inclusive atmosphere, the school provides exceptional pastoral care and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school’s holistic approach ensures students receive a well-rounded education.

Location

Al Barsha South First, Dubai

Contact

+971-4-385-1810

Annual Fees

AED 51,190 to AED 84,000 

Grades

FS1 to Grade 13

15. Dubai British School Jumeirah Park

Established in 2005, Dubai British School Jumeirah Park is recognised for its commitment to academic excellence and a holistic educational experience. The school fosters critical thinking, creativity and character development, preparing students for future success.

With over 3,000 students and a team of 50 UK-qualified teachers, Dubai British School Jumeirah Park emphasises the ethos of ‘Enjoy, Aspire, Achieve’.

Children doing homework in a british school in Dubai

Location

Al Warood Street 1, Jumeirah Park

Contact

+971-4-552-0247

Annual Fees

AED 64,210 to AED 109,232 

Grades

FS1 to Year 13

FAQs

1. How Many British Schools Are in Dubai?

As per KHDA, there are over 800 British schools in Dubai.

2. What Is a British Curriculum in UAE?

The British Curriculum in the UAE follows the UK education system, focusing on academic excellence and critical thinking. Students progress through key stages and earn internationally recognised qualifications like GCSEs and A-levels.

In conclusion, Dubai offers many exceptional British schools that cater to diverse educational needs and preferences. Each school provides unique opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded education for your child.

That said, if your child is in the final school stages, it’s time to explore the best universities in Dubai on Property Finder.