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What is it like? In short, education in Dubai is one of the best in the world. This is remarkable considering that until 1970, the Emirates had no educational system at all. Today, it is a source of pride for this country, and not without reason.
What should you consider? Education for expatriates in Dubai is exclusively paid. The amount you will need to pay depends on many factors, but primarily on the type of educational institution and its status.
The educational system combines both UAE traditions and the latest trends. In this city, people can receive education with the consideration of individual requirements. The programmes offered are designed for students with different levels of preparation.
Along with this, local and foreign students are offered high-level services that meet all modern global requirements. Thus, they acquire valuable knowledge and skills that allow them to confidently move forward in any professional field.
The active implementation of the latest technologies in Dubai's educational system makes the educational institutions highly attractive. Students are taught according to the most up-to-date methodologies, giving them invaluable experience for their future activities. Special emphasis is placed on developing leadership qualities, unlocking creative potential, and cultivating the ability to think critically.
Dubai has various preschools, schools and higher education institutions. Each has a number of features that you should familiarise yourself with in advance. This helps make a choice towards the option that will meet the expectations of both parents and applicants.
In Dubai, they are designed for children of the earliest age. There is also division within this system. For the youngest (45 days of age or older), there is Nursery, where they stay until about 4 years old. Parents have the option to leave their little ones not for the whole week, but only for several days.
Experienced staff teach children to speak, engage them in creative activities and lay the foundations of arithmetics. As a rule, such nurseries are located in areas with abundant vegetation.
Kindergarten is the next stage. It is designed for children of 4–6 years old, and gradual preparation for school begins. There they learn to read and write, completing small homework assignments. Teaching independence and discipline are the main tasks of teachers. This system helps children adapt more easily to primary school routines.
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The kindergartens’ working hours start from early morning (7 o'clock) and last until 12 PM–3 PM. During this time, children not only complete educational tasks but also play in playgrounds, engage in creative activities, and rest in cosy bedrooms. The kindergartens endeavor to find an individual approach to each child to make their stay there comfortable and beneficial for them.
Children who are UAE citizens receive education in these schools. They follow the national educational standard, and the learning process is conducted in Arabic. The main emphasis is placed on the following subjects: Arabic language, Islamic history and culture, and the study of the Quran.
Particular attention is paid to the use of modern methods and forms of teaching. Students of these institutions successfully master the disciplines, showing high results.
In these schools, education in Dubai for children has a wider range of services and opportunities. Various educational institutions offer students different programmes that are more suitable for foreigners. Moreover, an individual approach to each student is implemented in practice.
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The list of extracurricular activities takes into account individual preferences and talents. As a result, students receive comprehensive personal development.
Instruction in these schools is conducted in English. These institutions focus on international standards so that their graduates can enter the best universities.
This methodology allows students to continue their studies without problems in any school with the same curriculum. Children from different countries study there, united by a single message — respectful attitude towards representatives of different nationalities. The emphasis is on multicultural values.
Higher education in Dubai is represented by no less diversity than schools. There are branches of major universities that are famous for their high level of education. Students can complete a bachelor's degree or continue their studies in doctoral programmes.
One of the notable features of higher education in Dubai is the Bologna Process. Students are provided with the opportunity to transfer between institutions during their studies, and they can also make changes to their programme.
To become a bachelor, one needs to study for 3–4 years. This depends on the chosen field and specific university. The programme includes not only general subjects but also specialised ones. Students can always add additional subjects to their list.
In the master's programmes, students study full-time for 1–2 years. In some cases, they can study in the evening, combining it with work. Then the study period may be 5 years.
For those who choose doctoral studies, the educational process lasts 3–5 years. Within the specified period, one needs to defend a thesis and complete additional training.
Higher education in Dubai has a high international status due to progressive technologies. Students have the opportunity to undergo internships in international companies that cooperate with the universities. Some manage to establish a good reputation and build careers in prestigious firms after completing their studies.
One of their advantages is compliance with international standards. After such education, yesterday's students can confidently compete with graduates of the world's top institutions. School education allows easy admission to the best universities.
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Here are several examples of educational programmes in Dubai:
It complies with the requirements of the National Curriculum of England and Wales. Students there take GCSE and A-levels examinations. Students are attracted by the opportunity to enter world-renowned universities after graduating from such schools. Comprehensive development and formation of critical thinking are the main objectives of the British curriculum.
Its unique feature is that it fully complies with US educational standards. To enter an American university, one needs to take SAT and AP exams. Schools with this type of curriculum provide such opportunities to students, conducting necessary preparation.
Adherents of the American curriculum speak about the emphasis on individual characteristics of each student, development of leadership qualities, and diversity of extracurricular activities.
It represents a secondary education curriculum that includes four levels. Senior students get the opportunity to study subjects that they will need in their future profession. Many universities worldwide highly value the level of education in schools with the International Baccalaureate programme.
This programme is based on developing analytical thinking skills and the ability for independent research. Students often participate in international projects, sharing experience and knowledge with each other.
Local residents mainly study in state schools. Education is conducted in Arabic, with mandatory mastery of Islamic sciences and regional culture. In this way, children learn to respect their traditions and show patriotic feelings. The programme focuses on modern technologies and methods of teaching.
Education in Dubai for Russians is the same as for other foreign citizens. To enter a specific educational institution, one needs to familiarise themselves with the requirements and collect the necessary materials.
Nurseries in Dubai request completed forms from parents and ask for a registration fee. Copies of passports, child's birth certificate and visas will be required. In addition, a medical certificate and vaccination card will be needed.
Schools and universities request a set of documents:
First, it's useful to learn about the list of required documents to avoid an awkward situation. Each specific educational institution may request additional certificates and papers. Be prepared for this and find out about everything in advance.
Most schools require examinations in mathematics and English. As for higher education institutions, they often request IELTS and TOEFL results. In any case, applicants need to know about all requirements in advance and try to prepare for them.
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For this purpose, one can undergo training at these same educational institutions.
Passing the entrance examinations and preparing the documents is just part of the process. An equally important part is the interview with the institution's management. This also needs to be approached with maximum attention. Future students are required to show motivation for studies, erudition and interests not directly related to academic activities.
Education in private and international schools is quite expensive. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it's better to analyse your financial capabilities in advance.
Consider the following points before admission:
Depending on the prestige of the educational institution and its level, the price will be different. Annual fees can vary from 20,000 to 100,000 dirhams. This amount is approximately equal to 5,500 and 27,000 US dollars. However, you need to understand that your expenses will not be limited to this.
These include payment for educational materials, student uniforms, and the cost of specific events. Sometimes school management can immediately state the likely volume of additional expenses. However, you should still anticipate that new expenses may arise.
There are schools and universities where the most outstanding students can obtain these. Such assistance is a great help for many parents, reducing their financial burden.
To receive a scholarship, achievements not only in the academic programme but also in sports and various other extracurricular activities may be taken into account.
Educational institutions sometimes provide such assistance to families experiencing financial difficulties. For this, supporting documents need to be submitted to the administration. This should be done as early as possible to make sure the application is submitted before budget allocation. Sometimes charitable organisations are involved for these purposes.
There are numerous such educational institutions in Dubai. When choosing a specific nursery for the child, parents are guided by reviews from those whose children attend there. However, you also need to consider your individual needs:
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The preschool education in Dubai for children has a wide variety. Below are several nurseries that are particularly popular among foreigners. Some of them are considered the best preschool educational institutions:
It should be noted that there are no free nurseries in Dubai. The minimum amount for services is approximately 2,800 US dollars.
School education in Dubai is quite diverse. Institutions apply different programmes, which means there are differences in methods and forms of teaching.
In the UAE, there is the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). It evaluates and regulates the work of all school institutions. Based on the KHDA data, the list of the best schools is provided below.
The school follows the British curriculum. It is based on core subjects such as mathematics, English, foreign language, natural sciences and literature. There are additional disciplines that the child chooses independently. The number of subjects in secondary school ranges from 5 to 14.
In senior classes, the emphasis is on subjects necessary for university admission. There are two levels that the student can choose from. A-Level includes theoretical mastery of subjects, among which several (from 3 to 5) are studied in more depth.
The next level is BTEC, which emphasises gaining practical knowledge where students study business company operations.
Various extracurricular activities are aimed at child development and introduction to international values. If they have any health-related limitations, they can choose a special group where it will be comfortable for them to study.
The educational process follows the British curriculum. Up until senior classes, school disciplines are studied in roughly equal proportions.
Later, students focus on subjects that will be needed in their future profession. School graduates are proficient in handling basic computer programmes and are confident PC users.
Besides academic classes, there is a wide choice of extracurricular activities. These range from sports and creativity to research experiments. Students can engage with new technologies, master 3D printing, and study robotics.
During free time, there is an opportunity to rest on school grounds, which have specially equipped children's zones. Some classes are also conducted outdoors.
This school follows the International Baccalaureate education programme, which is based on several subjects: foreign language, mathematics, art, literature, theory of knowledge, and natural sciences.
In secondary school, the list expands, with the option to choose disciplines that interest the student the most. The full course of study is 13 grades and upon completion each graduate receives an international diploma.
This school will be particularly interesting to those who wish to study several foreign languages. It offers classes of various languages, dedicating about 2–3 hours per week to them.
The matter of students' physical activity has been approached rather unconventionally. For younger pupils, there is a special room with a spring floor, which is very popular. Additionally, outdoor lessons for students are organised.
A special GATEWAY programme supporting gifted children provides the possibility of creating an individual learning plan. Thus, the most successful students can dedicate more time to those disciplines where all their talents and abilities flourish.
Nord Anglia International School follows the British national curriculum until Year 11. During Years 12 and 13, students receive education according to the International Baccalaureate programme. A distinctive feature of the school is the implementation of the NAE Global Campus programme. Thanks to this, students get the opportunity to communicate and exchange experiences with peers from other countries.
The educational system in Dubai is built on the application of cutting-edge technologies. This school's approach demonstrates this principle. In it, everyone has their own iPad, teachers actively use interactive whiteboards, and teach children to operate drones and work with 3D printers.
The school's collaboration with American educational institutions provides additional opportunities for honing skills and gaining experience through participation in international forums, competitions and festivals.
Nord Anglia International School features a large hall for hosting festive events and creative activities. If a child has an inclination towards exact sciences and construction, they will find suitable activities in robotics and IT technologies. The local linguistics club takes care of developing oratory skills. There are also specially equipped classrooms for children with health limitations.
Teaching in this school follows the British national curriculum. During Years 12 and 13, students face a choice: continue studies according to the British standard or switch to the International Baccalaureate programme.
Among Dubai's educational institutions, this school is one of the largest. Primary and senior school buildings are located on an area of more than 120,000 m². Primary school pupils not only study separately from seniors but also dine in a different cafeteria. Some lessons are conducted outdoors.
In senior school, special rooms are equipped for specific school subjects. For instance, there are rooms for natural and humanitarian sciences. Additionally, students can choose various clubs and sections.
Students engage in photography, study astronomy, make films and conduct research in areas of interest. The school has its own social organisations and clubs.
The school has two dormitory buildings for those who don't want to go home for weekends. Boys and girls are housed separately.
When choosing an educational institution, look at the school ratings in the KHDA evaluation system, which conducts annual attestation of educational institutions.
The rating system includes 6 grades: Outstanding, Very Good, Good, Acceptable, Weak, Very Weak. The status of the educational institution and the cost of educational services depend on these ratings.
However, when choosing a worthy educational institution, you can also consider parent reviews to get a more complete picture of all components of the educational process, including nutrition and safety.
Keep in mind that your chosen educational institution might not appear in the KHDA rating, because for attestation, a school must begin operations in full capacity. Therefore, newly opened institutions are not subject to evaluation and are not included in the rating.
Annually, many students from around the world receive higher education in Dubai. The city has two districts where universities are concentrated: Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City. One can apply to the chosen university before the start of September classes.
The University of Dubai provides education according to bachelor's and master's programmes. Students study law, engineering, entrepreneurship and IT. The University of Dubai: College of Engineering and IT, Dubai Business School, and College of Law. Both local residents and foreigners can study there.
This branch of the Middlesex University was opened in 2005. It is designed to educate more than 3,000 students. Young people from all over the world go there.
Students receive quality education in various fields, such as entrepreneurship, law, arts, healthcare and more, while professional teachers help them master the most in-demand professions.
The Canadian University was founded in 2006. Teaching is conducted according to both bachelor's and master's degrees. Students can master professions in marketing, interior design, psychology and other fields. The offered programmes are rated highly in the world of educational services.
Students from different countries study there, representing more than 100 nationalities.
The university is renowned for its prestigious British diplomas. Among Dubai's higher education institutions, it holds one of the leading positions. In total, more than 50 professional courses have been developed.
This university has everything necessary for a modern student and applies the latest technologies in education. It also boasts specially equipped laboratories that are excellent for scientific research.
This Australian university offers preparatory courses for future students and provides education according to bachelor's and master's degrees. Fields of study include humanities, natural and exact sciences, engineering and IT.
The university was opened in 1998, becoming a branch of a major UAE state college. It is particularly attractive due to the availability of financial support for the most successful students. It also has its own system of incentives in the form of scholarships and financial aid.
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Main areas of study include arts, medicine, IT, and journalism. The university is deservedly considered one of the best higher education institutions in Dubai.
The university has Austrian origins. Students study hospitality management and conduct business research, engage in public administration matters and learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.
The university accepts new students not only in autumn but also in spring. Such an approach allows young people not to wait a whole year for admission if they missed the September intake for some reason.
Branches of this university are located in New York, China, Great Britain and Singapore. All buildings have modern equipment through which students engage in science and gain knowledge.
The main areas of study are related to humanities and natural sciences, as well as technical disciplines.
This Indian university provides high-quality educational services. Students can choose between engineering, public relations and other interesting professions. The university implements preparatory programmes and teaches according to the bachelor's programme. There are also additional courses for graduates.
Among other latest technologies, the institution is famous for its laboratories. For example, the television studio and programming classrooms generate great interest. Students also have opportunities for sports activities and access to recreation zones.
Dubai Pharmacy College allows its students to obtain first-class higher education in Dubai.
It was founded in 1992 by UAE's well-known public figure Haj Saeed bin Ahmed Al Lootah. Comfortable conditions are created for the students there. Upon completion of studies, graduates receive a bachelor's degree and can proceed to master's studies.
Higher education in Dubai for Russians is offered by many educational institutions, among which the Moscow university branch stands out. It has all the necessary permits and accreditation from the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation.
It provides education in the areas that are currently most in demand. University graduates become excellent specialists in entrepreneurship and hospitality management.
Like most world-renowned educational systems, education in Dubai includes three main stages: primary, secondary and higher. University students receive bachelor's and master's degrees, and also have the opportunity to continue their studies in doctoral programmes.
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Local residents typically study for free, while foreign students must pay for education. Some educational institutions conduct teaching in Arabic, but there is an option to enter a university where English will be used.
Unlike schools, there is no state rating for preschool institutions. Therefore, one has to look up parent reviews and trust their assessments.
Education in Dubai for children begins with preschool institutions, where they start mastering the basics of mathematics, learn to read and write. Additionally, it's beneficial for little ones to be in a collective, learning to communicate with each other.
Education in Dubai for children can be organised in a familiar atmosphere. But there are certain specifics. The child's guardians must register with the education department. After this, they can obtain all the necessary educational materials. Knowledge verification occurs through examinations.
Some foreign parents are in no hurry to send their child to a local school. Many decide to save finances this way. Also, parents sometimes fear that the child will be uncomfortable in an educational institution, especially if they are unfamiliar with the language spoken by the staff.
In this case parents can take into account individual characteristics, adapting the learning process. Education in Dubai for Russian children can be organised at home without particular problems. It all depends on your personal preferences.
Among the most popular vocational schools, several stand out: National Institute for Vocational Education (NIVE); Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government; Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management. The level of education in these institutions is quite high.
This needs to be taken care of in advance. Usually, future students start collecting documents about a year before admission. Early application to educational institutions will provide an opportunity to choose between the most suitable ones. Recommendations from former teachers will help you. In case of good recommendations, one can count on priority enrollment.
The educational system in Dubai in some individual institutions allows for gender-isolated education. Boys study separately from girls only in several universities. Usually, the educational process in such institutions is carried out in Arabic.
Students from other countries can study only on a paid basis, unlike UAE citizens. Local residents have access to free education in state universities of the country. As for private institutions, the education in them is paid for everyone without exception. Payment methods and tuition costs are unique to each university.
Sometimes universities allow paying for the entire period of study several years in advance. In some, it's possible to pay in instalments or take out a student loan. Such information can be found on each institution's website.
The educational system in Dubai allows everyone to find a suitable option for themselves. Foreigners enrol their children in educational institutions based on individual preferences and set goals.
In any case, the result will not cause disappointment. Quality education will help the child achieve maximum success in their studies and future profession.
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