Your guide to top schools and nurseries in the UAE

American School of Dubai (ASD)

Curriculum

Established in 1966, the American School of Dubai is an independent, US curriculum, PreK-12 international community school.

Academic excellence

The opening of the Center for Design and Innovation for Public Purpose offers ASD students in Grades 6-12 real-world opportunities to pursue their passions and create impactful deliverables that benefit others.

In Grade 10, students embark on a self-directed project-design experience, working alongside faculty and external mentors to design innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

Enhanced math programme is designed to equip students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to navigate and address complex, real-world systems.

Superintendent: Dr Stephen Druggan

Admission details

ASD’s admissions process for Grades 1-12 identifies students who will thrive academically and personally. The application deadline is February 8, with decisions released on March 6. Applicants are assessed on academic potential, community contribution, and alignment with ASD’s mission.

Tuition & facility fees

Dh59,180 - Dh87,268 (2024-2025)

Contact details

Asdubai.org; 04 395 0005

British Orchard Nursery

Curriculum: British EYFS

Founded: 2007

Academic excellence

Project-based learning- EQ & Mindfulness Curriculum

CEO & Founder: Dr Vandana Gandhi

Admission

Open all year round

Fees

Dh19,000 to Dh45,000 P.A (prices vary across branches in UAE)

Delhi Private School Sharjah (DPS Sharjah)

Curriculum: Indian (CBSE Board)

Founded: April 2000

Academic excellence

• Use of high-end adaptive tools and personalised learning paths for all groups of students

• Enhanced work on inclusion for special students and gifted and talented

• SEL and green curriculum

• Immersive learning using virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality

Principal: Vandana Marwaha

Admissions: PreKG to Grade XII

Average fees

Dh11,740 - Dh15,910

Contact details

Website.dpssharjah.com; 06 534 5352

Springdales School, Dubai

Curriculum: CBSE

Founded: 2013

Academic excellence

• Strong record of academic excellence in harmony with whole-child development

• Equipping students for academic excellence, global citizenship, and leadership

• Uncovering and developing talents in art, music, sports and performing arts

• Strong emphasis on well-being driven by a sense of belonging

Principal: David Jones

Admission details

Apply online; next your child will be invited to the school for an assessment. Assessments are for placement purposes only and not to discriminate by ability.

Average fees:

Dh26,000

Contact details

Springdalesdubai.com; 04 338 1311

Numu Nursery

Curriculum

Numu Nursery follows the BrainScape Curriculum, a Neuro-Mapped British EYFS framework

Founded: November 2022

Academic excellence: Numu enhances learning through:

• Enquiry-based, child-led exploration, ensuring active engagement

• Highly qualified educators trained in neuroscience-backed teaching

• Language development programmes that integrate interactive storytelling and phonics.

• A strong focus on emotional intelligence, helping children build confidence and independence.

Education Director: Karan Brown

Admission details

Numu welcomes children aged 45 days to 6 years, offering flexible schedules to support families.

Fees

From Dh24,000 to Dh35,000 per year, with various enrollment options available (Business Bay branch)

Contact details

https://numunursery.com/;

info@numunursery.com

052 246 6440