Dubai is home to some of the top international schools in the world, offering world-class education across various curricula, including British, IB, American, and French. Every year, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) conducts inspections to assess the quality of education in Dubai’s private schools. Based on these inspections, certain institutions are awarded the highest possible rating of ‘Outstanding’, reflecting their excellence in academics, teaching standards, student well-being, and extracurricular opportunities.

This list features all the best schools in Dubai that have received an Outstanding rating from KHDA. The schools are not ranked in any particular order but represent the highest-rated educational institutions in the Dubai. Whether you’re looking for a British curriculum school, an IB school, or a school following the American or French system, this guide provides key details on age range, fees, and educational approach to help you make an informed decision.

1. Kings’ School Dubai

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 6
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 55,001 – AED 66,383

Kings’ School Dubai is a leading British curriculum primary school, renowned for its high academic standards, holistic learning approach, and strong community engagement. The school focuses on nurturing confident and well-rounded students who excel both academically and socially.

2. Dubai College

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: Year 7 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 92,339

Dubai College is a selective British secondary school known for its rigorous academic program, outstanding GCSE and A-Level results, and extensive extracurricular offerings. The school prepares students for top universities worldwide through its high-quality teaching and supportive environment.

3. Deira International School

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: IB (International Baccalaureate)
• Fee Range: AED 40,283 – AED 85,406

Deira International School offers the IB PYP, MYP, and Diploma Programme, fostering global-mindedness and critical thinking. The school prides itself on a diverse student body, modern facilities, and a strong emphasis on innovation and leadership skills.

4. Dubai British School Emirates Hills

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 51,000 – AED 83,000

Dubai British School, Emirates Hills is a top British curriculum school focusing on academic excellence, student well-being, and strong extracurricular activities. The school encourages creativity, leadership, and global citizenship among its students.

5. Dubai English Speaking College

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: Year 7 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 72,479 – AED 82,000

Dubai English Speaking College is an exceptional secondary school with strong A-Level and BTEC results, preparing students for top universities. The school fosters independence, resilience, and a passion for learning through its rigorous academic program and co-curricular activities.

6. Dubai English Speaking School (DESS)

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 6
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 39,681 – AED 48,024

Dubai English Speaking School is a well-established primary school with a focus on academic and personal development. DESS provides a nurturing and stimulating environment that enables students to develop strong foundations for future success in their education.

7. Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) Arabian Ranches

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 39,000 – AED 97,000

A globally recognized international schools, Jumeirah English Speaking School, Arabian Ranches provides a well-rounded British education and has a strong reputation for arts, sports, and leadership programs. JESS Arabian Ranches emphasizes innovation, independent thinking, and a well-balanced student experience.

8. Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) Jumeirah

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 6
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 39,000 – AED 45,496

A primary school recognized for its high-quality teaching, inclusive environment, and strong community spirit. JESS Jumeirah provides an engaging curriculum that encourages students to develop confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning.

9. Dubai International Academy (DIA)

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: IB (International Baccalaureate)
• Fee Range: AED 40,157 – AED 72,352

Dubai International Academy is a top-tier IB school known for preparing students for success in higher education and beyond. DIA fosters a learning environment that encourages students to become inquiring, knowledgeable, and compassionate individuals.

10. Victory Heights Primary School

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 6
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 43,227 – AED 53,465

Victory Heights Primary School is a top tier British primary school known for creativity, sports, and student well-being. Victory Heights Primary School integrates a forward-thinking curriculum with a strong emphasis on character development and emotional intelligence.

11. Jumeirah College

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: Year 7 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 82,112

Jumeirah College is a leading British secondary school with an excellent A-Level program and strong university placements. Jumeirah College is known for its academic rigor, exceptional teaching, and a well-rounded approach to student development.

12. GEMS Wellington International School

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British / IB
• Fee Range: AED 40,000 – AED 97,000

GEMS Wellington International School is a British curriculum school offering the IB Diploma Programme with a focus on academic excellence. GEMS Wellington International School provides state-of-the-art facilities, diverse extracurricular activities, and strong leadership programs.

13. Repton School Dubai

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British / IB
• Fee Range: AED 52,863 – AED 95,000

Repton School Dubai is a prestigious British and IB curriculum school that provides its students with either a boarding or day school experience. Repton School Dubai provides a traditional yet innovative education, combining a rigorous academic curriculum with extensive co-curricular opportunities.

14. Nord Anglia International School Dubai

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British / IB
• Fee Range: AED 65,000 – AED 96,000

Nord Anglia School Dubai is a globally connected school focusing on innovation, creativity, and leadership. Nord Anglia International School Dubai collaborates with top institutions like MIT and Juilliard to provide world-class learning experiences for students.

15. GEMS Dubai American Academy

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 12
• Curriculum: American / IB
• Fee Range: AED 73,725 – AED 86,000

GEMS Dubai American Academy is a top American curriculum school offering IB for high school students. GEMS Dubai American Academy emphasizes personalized learning, global awareness, and strong university preparation through a mix of academic and extracurricular activities.

16. GEMS Modern Academy

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: IB / ICSE (Indian)
• Fee Range: AED 51,226 – AED 75,000

An Indian curriculum school offering IB and strong academic performance. GEMS Modern Academy is known for its excellence in academics, sports, and extracurriculars, providing students with a balanced education.

17. Safa Community School

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 40,000 – AED 85,000

Safa Community School is a British curriculum school focusing on holistic education and extracurriculars. Safa Community School nurtures students’ creativity, problem-solving skills, and independent thinking, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges.

18. GEMS Jumeirah Primary School (JPS)

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 6
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 46,187 – AED 50,000

GEMS Jumeirah Primary School is a primary school with a reputation for excellence and strong community values. GEMS Jumeirah Primary School ensures students receive a well-rounded education that balances academic success with personal development.

19. Dubai British School Jumeirah Park

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 45,000 – AED 75,000

Dubai British School Jumeirah Park provides a nurturing learning environment where students excel academically and personally. The school is known for its strong sense of community and focus on student well-being.

20. Lycee Francais International Dubai

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: French
• Fee Range: AED 41,929 – AED 66,000

Lycee Francais International Dubai offers a high-quality French curriculum with a strong emphasis on bilingual education. The school prepares students for further education in French-speaking institutions worldwide.

21. Lycee Francais International Georges Pompidou Oud-Metha

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 12
• Curriculum: French
• Fee Range: AED 29,670 – AED 60,000

Lycee Francais International Georges Pompidou Oud-Metha is a well-established French curriculum school that provides high academic standards in a bilingual environment. The school prepares students for French higher education while encouraging cultural exchange and multilingual proficiency.

22. GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 13
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 35,000 – AED 75,000

GEMS Wellington Academy Silicon Oasis offers a modern, innovative learning environment with a strong British curriculum. The school integrates digital learning, entrepreneurship programs, and IB Diploma options to prepare students for a competitive global future.

23. Horizon English School Dubai

• KHDA Rating: Outstanding
• Age Range: FS1 – Year 6
• Curriculum: British
• Fee Range: AED 42,000 – AED 56,000

Horizon English School is a top-rated British primary school with a strong emphasis on academic excellence, creativity, and social development. The school provides a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters a love for learning in young students.

Making the Right Choice for Your Family

With our expertise in both education and real estate, we understand the importance of finding the top school for your children as well as the best locations to live in Dubai. Choosing the right school goes hand in hand with selecting a community that aligns with your family’s lifestyle, daily commute, and future goals. Our knowledge of Dubai’s school system and real estate market allows us to guide you in making an informed decision, ensuring that your family settles in the perfect environment for both learning and living. Whether you are relocating or seeking better opportunities for your children, we are here to help you every step of the way.