As the UAE experiences a remarkable education boom, parents moving to the region face both exciting opportunities and significant challenges in selecting the right school in their UAE International School Search. At ED-SG, we specialise in guiding families through the dynamic and diverse landscape of international schools in the UAE, ensuring that each child finds a learning environment that suits their needs and aspirations.
The Most Exciting Education Market in the World
The UAE is rapidly solidifying its status as the world’s most dynamic education market, with new school openings regularly making headlines. For instance, GEMS Education has announced the transformation of GEMS Royal Dubai School Primary into an all-through school with a new secondary campus opening in 2026. Additionally, two new branches of the affordable GEMS Founders brand, GEMS Founders School – Masdar City and GEMS Founders School – Dubai South, are set to open in August 2024. Reigate Grammar School, a prestigious UK institution, plans to open three new schools in the UAE, and Ignite School in Al Warqa has revealed intentions to establish five new branches of its American curriculum school. Together, these announcements add to a growing list of schools set to launch in the coming years, creating a wealth of options for parents.
Dubai British School Jumeira: What We Know So Far
Dubai British School (DBS) Jumeira, opening for the 2024-25 academic year, will be the third school under the DBS brand by Taaleem. Like its sister schools, DBS Emirates Hills and DBS Jumeirah Park, DBS Jumeira will follow the English National Curriculum. Initially, it will offer classes from FS1 to Year 6, expanding to Year 13 over time, with a full capacity of approximately 1,600 students.
- Location: Al Safa, Dubai, adjacent to Horizon English School and fronting the Dubai Canal.
- Fees: FS1 and FS2 at AED 50,500 (discounted to AED 42,900 on opening). Years 1 and 2 share the same fee structure, while Years 3 to 6 are priced at AED 57,500 (discounted to AED 49,100). Founding families will benefit from these discounted rates throughout their child’s primary education.
GEMS Founders School – Masdar City, Abu Dhabi: What We Know So Far
One of the most exciting developments is the opening of two new GEMS Founders Schools in 2024. GEMS Founders School – Masdar City will initially cater to FS1 to Year 8 and expand to accommodate 2,100 students. Known for offering high-quality UK curriculum education at exceptional value, the Founders brand provides an attractive option for families seeking quality education without breaking the bank.
- Location: Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City, renowned as the world’s first zero-carbon, zero-waste, car-free city. Their team is ready to meet families at the temporary Admissions Centre located in the Siemens Energy Building in Masdar City.
- Fees: AED 26,000 to AED 34,00.
GEMS Founders School – Dubai South: What We Know So Far
GEMS Education and Dubai South have announced the planned opening of GEMS Founders School – Dubai South in August 2024. This will be the fourth school under the Founders brand and the third to open in Dubai.
- Location: Alongside Expo Road, close to Expo City and Al Maktoum International Airport.
- Capacity: The school will have a capacity of 2,500 students in phase one, initially opening with space for around 500 students from FS1 to Year 8, with plans to expand to Year 13 in subsequent years.
Noya British School, Abu Dhabi: What We Know So Far
Noya British School is set to welcome its first cohort of students in September 2024. This British curriculum school is one of several new projects by the premium education provider Aldar Education, known for operating renowned schools in Abu Dhabi.
- Location: Noya North development on Yas Island, opposite Gateway Park.
- Fees: Ranging from AED 27,300 to AED 35,700.
Reigate Grammar School UAE: Expanding Horizons
Reigate Grammar School UAE, in collaboration with Excella, is embarking on an expansion project that will establish new campuses in Ras Al Khaimah, Al Ain, and Abu Dhabi between 2024 and 2028. This initiative aims to deliver British curriculum education characterized by high academic standards and the values of the original Reigate Grammar School in the UK.
Ignite School: Embracing American Curriculum and UAE Values
Ignite School’s expansion plans include opening five new campuses, all dedicated to providing American education while embracing UAE and Islamic values. This approach ensures that children receive a high-quality education in a nurturing and culturally respectful environment.
The UAE’s Growing Pipeline of New Schools
The UAE is set to welcome a variety of new schools between 2024 and 2026, including prestigious institutions like Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi, Dubai British School Jumeira, and Noya British School in Abu Dhabi. Here are some of the notable upcoming openings:
- Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi, UK and MOE curriculum, Abu Dhabi, capacity 2,000.
- Rashid Latifah School Reopening, UK and MOE curriculum, Dubai, capacity 2,000.
- Dubai British School, Jumeira, UK curriculum, Dubai, capacity 1,600.
- GEMS Founders School, Dubai South, UK curriculum, Dubai, total capacity 2,500 of the first phase of development (the Early Years and Primary sections).
- GEMS Founders School, Masdar City, UK curriculum, Abu Dhabi, total capacity 2,100 of the first phase of development (the Early Years and Primary sections).
- Noya British School, UK curriculum, Abu Dhabi, capacity 2,500.
- Dubai British School, Mira, UK curriculum, Dubai, capacity 2,000.
- Saadiyat British Academy, UK curriculum, Abu Dhabi, capacity 2,600.
- Dubai English Speaking School, UK curriculum, Dubai, capacity TBC.
- GEMS Royal Dubai School, UK curriculum, Dubai, capacity TBC.
More Schools on the Horizon
Beyond confirmed announcements, there are whispers of additional institutions in the works. Interstar Education plans to open an Indian curriculum school and a premium British all-girls’ boarding school by 2026. Additionally, there are hints of a prestigious British curriculum school brand making its way to the UAE.
Population Boom Drives Demand
The rapid influx of new schools is a direct response to the UAE’s fast-growing population, which has increased from around 8.2 million in 2010 to over 10 million in 2023. As new residential areas emerge, the demand for conveniently located schools rises. We expect the planned Reigate and Ignite schools to be strategically placed to serve these new communities.
International Standards: A Key Attraction
With expatriates making up 88% of the UAE’s population, international schools offer globally recognized curricula, such as UK, IB, and American programs, that appeal to parents worldwide. These schools provide a holistic approach to education, preparing students for global opportunities.
Making the Right Choice: Guidance from ED-SG
At ED-SG, we understand that the wide array of school options can be overwhelming for parents. Our expertise helps families navigate the choices, ensuring that they find the perfect fit for their children. We provide insights into school news, reviews, and expert opinions, assist with campus visits, and facilitate meetings with faculty to help parents make informed decisions.
A Balanced Approach to School Supply
While the rapid expansion of the educational sector is a positive development, there is a potential risk of oversupply over time. Increased competition among schools may lead to fee reductions and more incentives, benefiting families but potentially straining institutions that struggle to maintain enrolment numbers. At ED-SG, we believe in a balanced approach to ensure that the expansion meets the needs of the growing population without compromising on quality.
