Your guide to top schools and nurseries in the UAE
This guide will help parents assess which institution best aligns with their child’s needs
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
