How to Choose the Best School for Your Kids in Dubai

Moving to a thriving city like Dubai is indeed the beginning of a new and exciting chapter of your life. However, it is a huge transformation and hence requires a lot of planning. Especially if you are moving with your family and you have school-going kids, finding the best school for your kids in Dubai can be a bit overwhelming because choices are numerous. Most people believe that fee structure and location are the things which your decision should be based on. While these two are important factors, there are other elements that must be taken into consideration for your kids’ better academic growth. In this blog, we have highlighted some of the most important elements that will help you choose the best school for your kids in Dubai. 

1. School Curriculum

Since Dubai is a salad bowl of cultures, there are more than 200 schools (including public and private) following 17 different curricula, such as British, American, International Baccalaureate, French, Australian, Indian, and so forth. Choosing a school offering a curriculum best suited to your child’s needs, aptitudes and personality is very important. Do you want your child to be focused academically or do you want them to thrive in an environment that offers an overall personality development? Based on the answers to these questions, research thoroughly as to which curriculum matches your child’s disposition and choose the right school for your kid.

2. Values and Principles

Your children spend a significant number of hours in their school each day. Therefore, it is crucial that the environment is healthy and has a positive impact on your children’s mental and emotional well-being. Every school presents its vision, mission, and values on its website. So, visiting a school’s website is indeed a great way to get familiar with its values and ethos. However, visiting the website only may not be the best way to choose the right school for your kids in Dubai. Instead, parents should schedule a visit to see in person how the school’s atmosphere and overall code of conduct align with their personal values. 

3. Ratings and Reviews

Another significant element while deciding on the best school for your kids in Dubai is to check whether the school is licensed and accredited by relevant authorities. If you are opting for a private school, it should at least be accredited by the KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority). KHDA is the Dubai Government’s licensing body that is responsible for the growth and development of education in private schools in Dubai. The DSIB, Dubai School Inspection Bureau, a sub-division of KHDA, regularly inspects all schools in Dubai and updates the ratings based on the performance of each school – outstanding being the highest ranking and very weak the lowest. 

4. Location

You may also want to take into consideration the location while choosing the best school for your kids in Dubai. Though Dubai may not be a very large metropolis, the traffic situation can sometimes take long hours to reach your destination. Therefore, along with the distance, consider the total traveling time to school as well, keeping in mind the traffic situation of the route. Many schools also provide school bus service at an additional cost. Based on your budget, you can opt school’s transportation service, hire a private driver, or drop off and pick up your kids yourself.     

5. Fee Structure 

We all want our children to get the best education. However, it is crucial to look for options that fall under your budget, at the same time providing quality education. School fees in Dubai vary from school to school and depend upon factors such as curriculum and grade. International schools following globally recognized curricula and offering ultra-modern facilities often have the highest fee structure. The minimum annual fee for an international school in Dubai is approximately AED 15,000 for a kindergarten student and AED 24,000 for a grade 12 student. However, that doesn’t mean that schools with low or moderate fee structures don’t offer quality education. In Dubai, you can find a variety of good schools even in your budget. Once you have narrowed down your choice according to your preference, it is advisable to visit KHDA’s website and check the annual fee of your desired schools. It is also to be noted that as per KHDA, private schools in Dubai can be eligible to raise tuition fees for the academic year 2023-2024, based on their academic performance.  For the past three academic years, Dubai’s government had imposed a freeze on private school tuition fees, allowing parents to manage financial constraints resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

6. Extra-Curricular Activities 

Though academic learning is the primary focus when you are on the school hunt, the school’s initiative for extra-curricular activities, such as sports, art, music, drama, etc., also matters a lot as it keeps students motivated and helps them maintain a healthy balance between studies and fun. Therefore, take a thorough look into the kind of extra-curricular activities the school arranges for its students. 

You Are All Set to Choose the Best Schools for Your Kids in Dubai

Remember, choosing the right school is a family affair. Involve your kids in the decision-making process. Before sealing the deal, plan a visit to the shortlisted schools with your kids. After all, they are the ones who will be spending a considerable chunk of their lives at this place. Let them explore the classrooms, playgrounds, libraries, and sports facilities. Ask the crucial question: Do they feel the magic of learning in the air? It's vital that your children feel at home on the campus since they'll be crafting their academic tales there. 

Happy education journey in Dubai!