School Hunting in Dubai is… Intense
When I first started looking for schools in Dubai, I thought it would be a simple process: research a few, visit, pick one. I quickly learnt it’s anything but straightforward. Between the sheer number of options, different curriculums, varying fees, and long waiting lists, it can feel like a full-time job.
If you’re about to start your own school search, here are the biggest lessons I’ve picked up along the way, plus some fantastic expert advice from my Next of Kin The Podcast episode with Lauren Brennan from KI Global (listen here), who helps parents navigate the UAE education system.
1. Start Earlier Than You Think
Many popular schools in Dubai have waiting lists, sometimes over a year long. If you know when you might be moving here, it’s worth starting the research before you even arrive. Lauren shared on the podcast that some families even apply before they’ve landed in Dubai.
2. Understand the Curriculums
Dubai offers a mix of curriculums including but not limited to:
-
British – familiar to UK expats, with GCSEs and A-levels.
-
American – flexible and project-based learning.
-
IB (International Baccalaureate) – inquiry-led, internationally recognised.
-
Indian – CBSE and ICSE options for strong academic foundations.
It’s important to think ahead, which curriculum will fit your child best now and in the future? Lauren explained in our conversation how each curriculum has a very different teaching style, which can be just as important as the content.
3. Location Really Matters
In Dubai, a 15-minute commute can quickly turn into 45 minutes at peak times. While it’s tempting to chase the “best” school on paper, you need to weigh up the daily logistics for your child (and yourself). Most schools offer a school bus option but I've come across very long routes, with journeys being up to 1 hour 45 mins! Not what little ones want after a long day of learning.
4. Fees Are Just the Start
School fees here can be a shock, you generally pay 525aed just to apply to a school, then once you're in remember to factor in:
-
Uniforms
-
School trips
-
Extracurricular activities
-
Transport fees (if needed)
5. Visit in Person
Websites and glossy prospectuses don’t tell the full story. Visiting the school lets you get a feel for the culture, see the facilities, and watch how the staff interact with the children.
6. Talk to Other Parents
Fellow parents are the best source of honest feedback. They’ll tell you what works well, and what the school could improve on in a way no official tour ever will. However, in our podcast episode Lauren highlighted the need to ensure you are taking feedback from the right people. Asking randoms on the internet is not much use because they may have totally different values to you.
7. Be Ready to Apply Quickly
If you find a school you love, act fast. Some schools have rolling admissions, others have strict application windows. Having your paperwork ready will save you stress.
Final Thought
Finding the right school in Dubai isn’t easy — but it’s worth the time and effort. There’s no one “best” school; the best choice is the one that fits your child’s needs, your family’s lifestyle, and your long-term plans.
If you want a deep dive into this topic, don’t miss my podcast episode with Lauren Brennan from KI Global where we discuss timelines, application tips, and what really matters when choosing a school (listen here). And for a quick snippet of my own experience searching for schools in Dubai as someone who has visited over 15, you can watch my Instagram reel on hidden school costs (watch here).
