Dubai College vs Jumeirah College

	D Dubai College Dubai, United Arab Emirates	J Jumeirah College Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 97,415 - 110,305	Fees / year AED 78,946 - 98,681
Age range	Age range 11 - 18 years	Age range 11 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,140	Pupils 1,294
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 24
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Dubai College is located in the Al Sufouh area of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, near the Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai Internet City. It sits along Al Sufouh Road with convenient access to Sheikh Zayed Road and the surrounding knowledge clusters. The school uses PO Box 837 as its postal address for correspondence. (Location details and area context are supported by the KHDA-inspected listing for Dubai College and independent locality guides.)	Location Jumeirah College is located on 19th Street in Al Safa 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in the Jumeirah district. The campus sits just off Al Wasl Road, providing convenient access by car and proximity to residential areas in the Jumeirah/Safa belt. Public transport serves the area, including bus routes that stop near the campus along Al Safa 1 Street.
Stages	Stages The school is structured in three progressive sections: Lower School for Years 7–9, Middle School for Years 10–11, and Sixth Form for Years 12–13.	Stages The school delivers the English National Curriculum from Year 7 to Year 13. Key Stage 3 comprises Years 7–9; Key Stage 4 covers Years 10–11 with GCSEs; Sixth Form covers Years 12–13 as part of ongoing expansion. The curriculum is aligned with England's framework, and GCSE and A‑Level qualifications are offered.
School type	School type Dubai College is a co-educational, independent, not-for-profit school that follows the English National Curriculum.	School type Jumeirah College is a co-educational day school (no boarding facilities).
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix KHDA's 2023–2024 inspection records 1,094 students on roll, including 9 Emirati students. The largest nationality group is the United Kingdom. This indicates a predominantly international student body with a local-to-international ratio of approximately 1 Emirati to 121 international students; the exact total number of nationalities represented is not specified in the report.	Pupil nationality mix Jumeirah College represents more than 60 nationalities. The most common nationality among students is British. Local students make up about 1% of the student body, with international students representing roughly 99%.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Dubai College provides a dedicated Student Services team led by a SENCO, with school counsellors and medical support on site to support wellbeing and inclusion. The safeguarding framework and inclusion initiatives are described as part of its pastoral provision.	Additional learning support The school operates an Inclusion Department with an Inclusion Policy and a Head of Inclusion. Students with additional needs receive support from Learning Support Assistants and have access to Individual Education Plans, EAL support, and external specialist services as needed.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Dubai College follows a British-style education with the English National Curriculum; it is not tied to a single country in terms of affiliation.	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation; the school delivers the National Curriculum for England (UK) and is part of the GEMS Education network.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation stated. Islamic Studies is taught for Muslim students as part of the UAE curriculum.	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliation. Islamic Studies is available for Muslim students as part of the core curriculum where appropriate.
School day structure	School day structure Normal school days start with registration at 07:45–07:50 and end at 15:35 after the seventh period. A lunch break runs from 12:20 to 13:20. Ramadan timings may be adjusted in line with local practice.	School day structure The standard school week runs Sunday to Thursday. The day starts at 7:15am with registration at 7:45am. The full day typically ends at 3:00pm from Sunday to Wednesday, with Thursday finishing earlier around 1:00pm. From January 2026, Friday dismissals are guided to finish by 11:30am as part of Dubai's updated private-school timings.
Bus service details	Bus service details Dubai College operates 18 morning and afternoon bus routes plus 6 late buses for activities. Buses are provided by a mix of in-house and third-party operators and are not door-to-door; stops are chosen to be close to students' homes where safe. Registration is via the Maverick Parent app, and the school provides a transport coordinator for questions. Bus fees are published for the 2025–2026 year.	Bus service details A school transport service is operated by STS Group. The fleet features CCTV, ADAS, GPS tracking, RFID, and a 24/7 Operations Control Centre, with safety-focused driver training. Buses serve the Al Safa 1 area near the campus, including routes such as the F20 on nearby streets.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Tuition fees (2025–2026) - Years 7–11: AED 97,415 per annum. Term breakdown: Term 1 AED 38,966.00; Term 2 AED 29,224.50; Term 3 AED 29,224.50. Fees are payable in advance. - Years 12–13 (Sixth Form): AED 110,305 per annum. Term breakdown: Term 1 AED 44,122.00; Term 2 AED 33,091.50; Term 3 AED 33,091.50. Fees are payable in advance. Application fees - Year 7 entry: A total application/assessment fee of AED 525 (AED100 application fee + AED400 assessment fee, inclusive of VAT) is payable at the time of submitting the Year 7 online application. Payment instructions are provided as part of the online application process. - Year 12 entry: There is no application fee required at initial submission; an application/assessment fee of AED 525 is payable only for short-listed Year 12 applicants invited to interview. Billing schedule and payment terms - The academic year is split into three terms (Autumn: Sept–Dec; Spring: Jan–Mar; Summer: Apr–Jul). Term invoices show the due date as the first day of the school term; fees are payable promptly on that due date. - Parents wishing to pay via monthly instalments must contact the Bursar to agree a payment plan. - The Governors reserve the right not to admit a student if Term 1 fees are not paid on time and may suspend a student for up to three days if fees for other terms are not paid. Re-registration fee and Personal Debenture - An annual re-registration fee equal to 5% of the annual tuition fee is payable at the start of Term 3. - A Personal Debenture is required for all new students joining in 2025–2026. The required debenture amount for 2025–2026 is AED 30,000; the debenture is intended to be returned to the purchaser (less any outstanding sums owing to the school) when the student leaves. The Debenture is due upon accepting a place and a place is not confirmed until the Debenture has been bought unless an agreement has been made with the Bursar. Optional extras and other recurring charges - School transport: AED 2,377 per term for a return journey, or AED 1,254 per term for a one-way service. Sibling discounts for the bus service apply: 10% discount for the second child and 25% for the third and subsequent children (applies to both one-way and return). - Private music tuition: AED 2,612 per term (including VAT). This covers a minimum of 400 minutes of private teaching in ten 40‑minute lessons per term; the music fee is payable in advance with tuition and transport charges. A term's written notice is required to withdraw from transport or private music lessons. Other costs (uniform, equipment, kit) - Uniform and regulated kit are required. Regulation items (uniform, school bags, specific art and mathematical equipment, optional locker padlocks) are stocked at the designated supplier (Stitches, Al Quoz). Prices for uniform and kit items are set by the supplier and are not listed as fixed school charges. Students' uniform items should be clearly labelled. Boarding (where applicable) - Dubai College operates as a day school and does not provide boarding accommodation; therefore boarding fees do not apply. Refund information - Personal Debenture refund: To obtain a refund of the Personal Debenture, the purchaser must complete the school's Redemption Information Form. Refunds of the debenture are made by online bank transfer to the person or company that paid for the debenture, less any sums owed to the school; refunds are not made in cash or by cheques made payable to cash. - Transport and music lessons: A term's written notice is required if a student is withdrawn from transport or private music lessons; fees and notice obligations for these services are set out in the school's fee arrangements. Fee payment options and responsibilities - Fees and fee-related arrangements are handled by the school's Finance Office / Bursar; parents must contact the Bursar to arrange monthly instalments or to discuss exceptional payment arrangements. Application payments are taken through the school's online application process where specified (for example Year 7 applications). The Personal Debenture is payable on acceptance of a place unless an alternative arrangement has been agreed with the Bursar. The school specifies that debenture refunds are paid by online bank transfer. Notes on discounts and variability - Sibling discounts are applied to the bus service as specified above; other fee discounts (if any) and annual fee reviews are a matter for school policy and KHDA allowances. Fee levels shown above apply to the 2025–2026 academic year as stated in the school's published fee schedule.	Fee details Tuition fees (annual and per term by year group) - Year 7: AED 78,946 per year. Term payments: AED 31,578 (first term), AED 23,684 (second term), AED 23,684 (third term). - Year 8: AED 78,946 per year. Term payments: AED 31,578 (first term), AED 23,684 (second term), AED 23,684 (third term). - Year 9: AED 78,946 per year. Term payments: AED 31,578 (first term), AED 23,684 (second term), AED 23,684 (third term). - Year 10: AED 88,813 per year. Term payments: AED 35,525 (first term), AED 26,644 (second term), AED 26,644 (third term). - Year 11: AED 88,813 per year. Term payments: AED 35,525 (first term), AED 26,644 (second term), AED 26,644 (third term). - Year 12: AED 98,681 per year. Term payments: AED 39,473 (first term), AED 29,604 (second term), AED 29,604 (third term). - Year 13: AED 98,681 per year. Term payments: AED 39,473 (first term), AED 29,604 (second term), AED 29,604 (third term). Enrolment and application-related fees - Application fee: an application fee is payable at the time of online registration (amount not stated here). The application fee is refundable only if a place is not offered; it is non-refundable if a place is offered and declined. - Registration deposit (new students): a registration deposit equal to 10% of the total tuition fee is due on acceptance of the offer. This admission/registration deposit is non-refundable but is adjustable against the total tuition fee for the academic year. - Re-registration deposit (current students): a re-registration deposit equal to 5% of the total tuition fee is payable at re-enrolment to guarantee a place for the next academic year. This deposit is non-refundable but deductible from the tuition fees for the academic year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is collected in three instalments and is payable in advance of attendance at the start of each term. The standard instalment split is: 40% of the annual tuition (first term), 30% (second term), and 30% (third term). Tuition is invoiced from the time of admission. Failure to pay fees may result in loss of place, withholding of reports/references/examination results, or exclusion. - Tuition and other fees are payable in the currency stated on invoices (AED). Additional invoicing may occur for items charged separately (see “Other costs” below). Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable; the school operates as a day school. No boarding fees apply. Other costs and additional fees - Uniforms: full uniform is compulsory and is purchased separately (available through designated suppliers and the school's approved uniform supplier). Uniform costs are additional to tuition and are paid outside the tuition invoice. - Educational visits, examinations, transport and learning-support costs: these items are invoiced separately in addition to tuition where relevant (for example, transport fees, examination entry fees, educational trip costs, and individual learning support where identified). Extra-curricular activity or specialist provision fees may also apply depending on participation. Refund policy and withdrawals - Registration and re-registration deposits are not refunded except in extenuating circumstances (for example relocation to another emirate/country or other exceptional reasons). The application fee is refundable only if no place is offered; it is non-refundable if a place is offered but not taken. Refunds for tuition already paid are calculated on the basis set out by the school: tuition paid prior to the start of a term may be refundable subject to deductions (application / re-registration fees), and deductions apply depending on the length of attendance if withdrawal occurs after term start (for example, a month's fee or two months' fee deductions depending on length of enrolment; full term fees may be deducted if enrolled for more than a month). The refund is calculated from the start of the term and the date of the official written withdrawal request. If paid by card or online, refunds are returned to the card; cash payments are refunded by cheque. A 30-day written notification of withdrawal is required. Fee payment options and methods - Accepted payment methods include payments in person at the accounts office, bank transfer to the College bank account, and online payment via the College's online payment system. Credit card payments are accepted through the online/payment channels; the school also participates in a FAB GEMS World Credit Card promotion for advance annual fee payment. Payment and refund methods follow the school's stated processes. Notes - Tuition is payable termly and in advance; instalment amounts for each term are shown above. Additional fees (uniform, transport, exam entries, educational visits, learning support) are charged separately when applicable.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Dubai College requires a neat school uniform. The regulation items are stocked at Magrudy Enterprises (Beach Road, Jumeirah) and at Stitches (Street 10, Al Quoz). Dubai College's online sports kit (Kukri) is available, including Senior Rugby shorts, Cricket top and trousers, and a Netball dress for Years 7–9. All uniform items and kit should be clearly labelled with the student's name.	Uniform requirement Uniform is compulsory for all students. It can be purchased online through Threads at threadsme.com, and Threads has a store located on the ground floor (G09) of the Times Square Centre, off Sheikh Zayed Road; orders can also be placed by fax to 04 340 9638 or bought directly from the Threads store. The PE kit is also required and is supplied by Surridge, with online ordering and a 48-hour delivery window.
Food options	Food options Dubai College has four food outlets: the main canteen, Charlton's Café in SPACE (open at break and lunch to all students, and all day for Sixth Form students), the kiosk for snacks and drinks, and the Quad Café in The Jafar Centre offering hot and cold food. A cashless card is used to purchase meals, and a mobile app provides information on what has been purchased. Packed lunches are allowed, and the school encourages healthy eating.	Food options The college provides an on-site canteen with both indoor and shaded outdoor eating areas surrounding a poolside setting. A daily catering service offers a selection of healthy snacks and hot meals for students.
House system	House system Dubai College uses a four-house system: Barbarossa, Chichester, Cousteau, and Heyerdahl. Every student is assigned to a house, and houses compete across more than 70 events spanning sports, arts, and academics. The inter-house Sports Day is a key annual event.	House system There are four houses: Fihri (green), Majid (yellow), Gibran (blue), and Sina (red). Each student is a member of a House, with Year 13 House Captains and House Representatives coordinating College-wide events and year-group activities; regular House assemblies and inter-house competitions form part of the school calendar.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Dubai College is a non-profit school governed by a Board of Governors drawn from the local community under an Emiri Decree. The Board decides policy, with day-to-day implementation carried out by the Headmaster and Bursar.	Governance and ownership GEMS Education owns and governs Jumeirah College. A Local Advisory Board provides external accountability and guidance, comprising members from the JC community and beyond to support school leadership and ensure ongoing improvement.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Dubai College follows the English National Curriculum, organized into Lower School (Years 7–9), Middle School (Years 10–11) and Sixth Form (Years 12–13). Lower School offers broad exposure to subjects including Mathematics, English, Science, Arabic, French or Spanish, Geography, History, UAE Social Studies, Islamic Studies for Muslim students, plus Music, PE, Drama, Art, Design and Technology, Computer Science and Digital Skills; in Year 9 Latin is optional and all students begin GCSE study in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In Middle School, every student takes 10 GCSEs (Mathematics, English Literature, English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Arabic or Arabic A, UAE Social Studies in Year 10, Games, and Islamic Studies for Muslim Students) and selects three options including one from Computer Science, Economics, Geography or History and one from Art/Design/Technology, Drama, Latin, Music or Physical Education; French or Spanish may also be studied. In Sixth Form, almost all students study four A Levels at the start of Year 12, typically reducing to three by Year 13, with subjects including Art and Design, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design and Technology, Drama & Theatre Studies, Economics, English Literature, the Extended Project, French, Further Mathematics, Geography, History, Latin, Mathematics, Music, Physical Education, Physics, Politics, Psychology and Spanish; Games are compulsory and TopUP university preparation is provided, with Islamic Studies and Arabic as appropriate for Muslim students. A Dubai College Careers Programme supports 14–19 pathways and there are IGCSE and A Level options materials to guide subject choices.	Curriculum details Jumeirah College follows The National Curriculum for England (NCfE), taught by qualified staff, and is registered with the UK Department for Education as an overseas school and as an examination centre for UK boards; all lessons are taught in English. In Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) the curriculum covers English, Mathematics, Science, French, Spanish, Arabic, Islamic Studies (for Muslim students), Design Technology, Food Science, Robotics, Drama, ICT, Geography, History, Music, Art, Physical Education, PSHCE and Cultural Studies, with Accelerated GCSEs in Core Subjects studied in Year 9. In Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11) students take GCSEs in up to nine subjects, with four compulsory GCSEs (English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Science), compulsory non-GCSE (PSHCE/Islamic Studies and Core Physical Education), and four optional subjects (including Arabic Ministry or Second Language, Art & Design, Business Studies, Computing, Design Technology, Drama, Economics, French, Spanish, Geography, History, ICT, Music, Psychology, Triple Science). In Sixth Form (Years 12–13) all students study AS and A Levels across a wide range of subjects to prepare for higher education and professional paths. The school operates in a multicultural environment and, in practice, lessons are conducted in English.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning Dubai College supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a Rolling Positive Education Programme grounded in PERMA, a Character Development Programme, a DEI and Belonging Society, Wellbeing Action Groups, data-led weekly student check-ins via YouHQ, and access to The Wellbeing Hub for resources.	Social & emotional learning The social and emotional learning (SEL) framework at Jumeirah College is delivered through a structured pastoral system organized by year groups and led by a Head of Year. Each student is assigned to a form group with a Form Tutor who remains with that group to monitor welfare and academic progress, making the Form Tutor the first point of contact for parents and teachers on welfare matters. The environment is described as happy and supportive, with a focus on confidence, self-discipline, independent thinking and active participation in learning. The Inclusion/SfL (Support for Learning) team coordinates provision to address academic and emotional wellbeing, employing a holistic approach to progress. Learner profiles are developed with input from students and parents, and regular parent-teacher consultations help ensure personalised support and ongoing communication.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) SEN provision is delivered by an Inclusion and SEND team, led by the Head of Student Services/SENCO (Cindy Penney); the school has three school-based counsellors, a medical clinic, and SEND staff including HLTA Kate McIlveen, Faryal Saeed, and Lorna Silverlock, with a strong commitment to inclusive education for Students of Determination.	Special educational needs (SEN) Jumeirah College is inclusive and welcomes students with a wide variety of special educational needs and disabilities, with admissions open to those requiring SEND provision. The school designates a qualified Head of Inclusion and an Inclusion Support Team (SfL) to coordinate SEND provision, planning, and monitoring across the curriculum. Identification of need is ongoing, with a graduated approach to support and a provision map to guide interventions; monitoring, planning, and reviews are conducted to support progress and wellbeing. The Learning Support Team includes roles such as Learning Support Teachers and an English Language Learner (ELL) teacher, and there is a dedicated School Counsellor and pastoral staff to support learners. Regular parent consultations (PTCs) and collaboration with external agencies form part of the standard SEND framework, and staff receive ongoing professional development to support inclusive practice.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information regarding English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision in its public materials.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) is recognised as one of the main categories within the school's SEND framework, with a separate EAL policy referenced in the Inclusion policy. The Inclusion/SfL team includes an ELL teacher, reflecting explicit EAL support within the school's learner support structure. The Learner Profile process involves input from students and parents to tailor supports for EAL learners, and provision is coordinated to enable access to the curriculum. The policy notes that EAL is one of the three main groups addressed by the school, alongside SEND and MEA/G&T, and that there are specific procedures for identification, intervention, and differentiation. The school also aligns with broader codes of practice (e.g., the UK SEND Code of Practice) and maintains a dedicated Inclusion Policy and related resources.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the Wellbeing Programme, including Mental Health Support delivered by pastoral teams and dedicated counsellors, plus data-led weekly wellbeing check-ins via YouHQ and access to the Wellbeing Hub.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is a core facet of Jumeirah College's holistic approach to education, with the mission explicitly focusing on emotional and physical wellbeing as part of every student's progress. The school maintains Pastoral Support through a dedicated Pastoral Vice Principal and a School Counsellor, supported by the broader Inclusion/SfL team and Heads of Year. The learner pathway emphasises emotional wellbeing alongside academic progress, and students are consulted about their personalised support paths. Regular opportunities for student voice and collaborative planning with parents contribute to emotional resilience and wellbeing. The school's safeguarding and safeguarding-linked pastoral provisions further reinforce emotional support as part of daily school life.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in Dubai College's culture and policies, with a safeguarding team including a DSL, two DDSLs, Heads of Year, and a safeguarding governor; three school-based counsellors and a medical support team; annual safeguarding training and online safety training; and safeguarding integrated into the Rolling Positive Education Programme.	Safeguarding GEMS safeguarding policy at Jumeirah College establishes formal governance, roles and responsibilities, including a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) who is part of the senior leadership team. The policy sets out child protection procedures, recording requirements, and escalation processes, including use of the Guard safeguarding case management platform and clear timelines for reporting concerns. It details safer recruitment practices, whistleblowing, complaints handling, and safeguarding training for staff, with a focus on protecting children and safeguarding across the school community. The policy also provides appendices detailing roles, external guidance, and UAE-specific safeguarding mandates to guide implementation. The policy is current for 2025-2026 and supersedes earlier versions.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Dubai College sits on a 19-acre campus in Al Sufouh. The SPACE facility provides a double-width sports hall, a full-size gym, a swimming pool and two fitness studios. The Jafar Centre, opened in 2023, adds flexible learning spaces including interactive classrooms and a maker space, and houses the Bridgman Library and the Quad cafe. The C Hub hosts the library, studios and galleries, while the Science Block contains 21 laboratories. The campus includes a 900-seat auditorium, Black Box Theatre, Art Studios, Music Centre with 12 practice rooms and a recording studio, plus extensive outdoor pitches and floodlit courts.	Facilities overview Jumeirah College features seven fully equipped science laboratories and a Design and Technology suite with a graphic design room, two workshops for wood, metal and plastics, and a CADCAM room with a LaserPro cutter. The ICT provision is embedded in all teaching spaces, with interactive whiteboards in every classroom, digital projectors, a BYOD environment, and more than 400 networked computers. The Communication and Resource Centre houses a large library with online databases, maps, periodicals, journals, newspapers and videos, plus 24 networked terminals and after-school access. Creative facilities include two music rooms, a music technology laboratory, a state-of-the-art recording studio, two drama studios, and three art studios. Sport facilities comprise an air-conditioned multi-purpose sports hall, a 25-metre outdoor heated pool with poolside seating, outdoor tennis and netball courts, a small on-campus playing field, and full-sized off-campus grass pitches. The campus also provides shaded recreational courtyards, indoor and outdoor eating areas around a poolside canteen, and a medical room staffed by nurses to support student welfare.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities SPACE houses a double-width sports hall, a full-size gym/fitness area, a swimming pool and two fitness studios. An outdoor MUGA, floodlit netball/tennis courts, and first-class rugby, football and cricket pitches with spectator seating complete the facilities. The Sports Pavilion provides changing rooms and medical facilities.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Science Block contains 21 laboratories. Bridgman Library is located in the C Hub and there is a dedicated school library; a 320-study-bay Sixth Form Centre with collaboration rooms and a common room. The English Block houses specialists and a Harkness Room.	Academic facilities —
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The 900-seat Auditorium is used for assemblies and performances, and the Black Box Theatre seats 150 and is complemented by three drama studios. The Music Centre offers 12 practice rooms and a recording studio, and four Art Studios support visual arts. The Jafar Centre opened in 2023 and includes a maker space, the Bridgman Library, Quad cafe and Digital Studios.	Extra curricular facilities —
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Dubai College was formally constituted on 4 May 1978 by the consent of His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai, to provide modern British-style secondary education in the Emirate of Dubai. Tim Charlton, the founder, had previously taught in Choueifat, Sharjah, and returned to Dubai to establish the college. Ahmed Baker provided instrumental early support, and Tim Charlton arranged meetings with banks, architects and parents to secure backing for the project. The plan for the school culminated in a signed directive to build a school, here, marking the establishment of Dubai College.	History Jumeirah College was established in 1999 to provide British-style secondary education in Dubai. The school is owned and governed by GEMS Education, a global K-12 education group, with a Local Advisory Board added to provide local governance alongside corporate oversight. A major expansion occurred from late 2023 into 2024, including the opening of a new sixth-form wing in late 2023 and the introduction of facilities such as a robotics/AI/VR suite and additional science labs in 2024, with the final phase planned for the 2024-25 academic year. GEMS emphasizes safeguarding and holistic education across its network, and Jumeirah College operates within that governance framework while retaining local advisory input. This history shows JC's growth within the GEMS network and ongoing facility enhancements.
Community	Community Dubai College's community is organized around the Friends of Dubai College (FDC), a volunteer group open to all parents, staff and alumni. The FDC aims to enrich and complement the educational experience through a variety of school social events, from Fun Days for the Lower School to farewell events for our departing Year 13 students. It also organises events to support the school's wellbeing and philanthropic initiatives and to bring parents, teachers, staff and friends together for social occasions. The group provides support for key academic events held at the school, including parents' evenings, and leads and coordinates the Class Representative communication system to cascade information through volunteer Parent Reps.	Community Jumeirah College promotes a village-like community where students, teachers, staff, and families collaborate to achieve excellence. Parental involvement is fostered through the Jumeirah College Partnership (JCP), a parent volunteer group that supports the school and aims to build a close JC community. Jewels of Kindness and Respect recognizes acts of kindness by students and invites parental nominations, reinforcing the school's culture of kindness. Examples of community events include JCP Coffee Morning, JCP Quiz Night, JCP Trash for Cash, and JCP Bake Sale.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Dubai College's PTA-equivalent is the Friends of Dubai College (FDC). It is a volunteer group open to all parents, staff and alumni. FDC aims to enrich and complement the educational experience through a range of school social events, from Lower School ‘Fun Days' to milestone Year 13 farewells. It also organises activities to support the school's wellbeing and philanthropic initiatives and to bring together parents, teachers, staff and friends for social events. FDC provides support to key academic events, including parents evenings, and leads the Class Representative communication system to disseminate information via volunteer Parent Reps. The Executive Committee is elected and actively plans and coordinates these activities.	Parent teacher association The Jumeirah College Partnership (JCP) is the school's parent volunteer group that supports JC and aims to foster a close community between parents, students, and teaching staff. The JCP welcomes new committee members and volunteers for various events. Examples of events include JCP Coffee Morning, JCP Quiz Night, JCP Trash for Cash, and JCP Bake Sale. The JCP committee meets regularly, typically once a month. To join or volunteer for a specific event, contact the Parent Relations Executive via the JC Partnership page.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Dubai College follows an adapted English National Curriculum within a selective school. The aim is to develop understanding, knowledge and skills to meet global challenges and to place students at highly selective universities worldwide. The curriculum is organized into Lower School (Years 7–9), Middle School (Years 10–11) and Sixth Form (Years 12–13), with 10 GCSEs taken in Years 10–11 and four A Levels commonly studied in Year 12. A Careers Programme supports 14–19 pathways and university preparation.	Academic & intellectual Academic ECAs include Model United Nations (MUN), Debate, and World Scholar's Cup. These activities develop public speaking, research, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Dubai College offers Music, Drama, Art and Design and Technology as part of the curriculum. In Sixth Form, students can study A Level subjects including Art and Design, Drama and Theatre Studies, and Music. Creative subjects are integrated across the lower and senior years and supported by a broader program of school life.	Arts & creative Non-sport ECAs include Orchestra, Art, Digital Art, Drama, Photography, and Dance. They support creative expression and collaborative skills.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Arabic is studied from Year 7 with Arabic A available for students who hold Arabic passports. French or Spanish is offered in the Lower School, and Year 9 includes Latin as an option. In Sixth Form, languages include French, Latin and Spanish, and Arabic (as a first language) remains required for Arabic passport holders. UAE Social Studies and Islamic Studies are part of the curriculum.	Cultural & language Non-sport ECAs include language clubs in French, Spanish, and Arabic; international activities include Model United Nations and Debating.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Games and physical education form a core part of the Middle School curriculum. The school operates a House Programme to promote student life and competition. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is available to students. Dubai College also integrates wellbeing into school life through a Positive Education Programme.	Social & hobbies Non-sport ECAs include Reading, Textiles, Sailing, Rock Climbing, Debating, and Pilates.
Community & service	Community & service Dubai College has community structures including the Dubai College Foundation, Alumni network and Friends of Dubai College.	Community & service Jewels of Kindness and Respect highlights charitable work and community work, recognizing acts of kindness that benefit others and the wider community.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional A Careers Programme provides a planned, progressive pathway for 14–19 learners, supporting university and career planning. TopUP lessons support university preparation in Year 12 and 13. The A Level Options Process and A Level Options Booklet help with subject choices.	Leadership & professional The school runs a House system with Houses Fihri, Majid, Gibran, and Sina; House Captains and House Representatives coordinate events and lead college activities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Dubai College runs a Rolling Positive Education Programme and Wellbeing initiatives. A weekly Positive Education Programme is delivered in Year 9, and Form Tutors provide personal support for wellbeing. Wellbeing resources are accessible through the school's wellbeing offerings.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports ECAs include Netball, Rugby, Badminton, Swimming, Running, Cricket, Football, Athletics, Table Tennis, Duathlon, Tennis, Trampolining and Crossfit. Pilates is listed among non-sport ECAs.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school uses English as the language of instruction. Arabic is studied as a subject across the lower years. French or Spanish are offered as optional language subjects in the lower years, and Latin is available in Year 9. In the Sixth Form, Arabic A is available; Arab-nationality students must study Arabic A, and non-Arab students who have studied Arabic A may continue it alongside A Level subjects.	Language provision The language of instruction is English. French, Spanish and Arabic are taught as modern languages. Arabic is compulsory for all in Key Stage 3; in Key Stage 4, options include Arabic (Ministry) and Arabic (Second Language) alongside French and Spanish.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Dubai College is a selective, not-for-profit, fee-charging day school in Dubai. Year 7 entry has 176 places and is selective; applications for August 2026 closed, with eligible applicants invited to sit an entrance assessment in November if applied by the deadline. The majority of new Year 7 students come from Dubai primary schools, with joiners from other Emirates and overseas, representing about 35–40 different primary schools. Applicants should be in the school year corresponding to their age; for Year 7 in 2026, the candidate should be 11 by 31 August 2026 and have completed Year 6 in 2025–26. Applications for overseas moves can be completed without visiting Dubai, with assessments conducted under examination conditions at the student's current school and remote interviews where applicable; the deadline for year-group admissions is the same for UAE and overseas applicants, and late overseas applications are not accepted. The school requires fluency in written and spoken English and does not teach English as a Second/Foreign Language. Emirati families are given priority through the Emirati Scholars Programme, which admits Year 7 Emirati scholars; admissions involve contextual data, a dedicated Tutor for Emirati Scholars, and final decisions made by the Head. The Emirati Scholars Programme operates within the school's admissions framework with specific dates for application through Year 7 entry.	Admissions 1. Book a School Tour or Apply Online. Jumeirah College teaches Year 7 to Year 13 in the National Curriculum for England with English as the language of instruction. The school is registered with the Department for Education in London as a British Overseas School and as an external centre for U.K. examination boards. A tour can be booked or an online application submitted to begin the admissions process. 2. Submit your application and materials. Applications are initiated through the online admissions channels. The Admissions Process page provides an overview and directs you to contact the Registrar for further guidance. The College serves a multi-national student body and uses the NCfE framework for study. 3. Receive an admission offer and complete enrollment. An offer is followed by a Registration Deposit of 10% of the total tuition due upon acceptance of the Offer Letter. The Admission fee is non-refundable but adjustable against the total tuition for the academic year. Existing students re-enrolling must pay a 5% Re-registration Deposit to guarantee a place for the following year. 4. Arrange payment of tuition and additional fees. Tuition fees are paid termly and in advance, with a structured payment system. The 2025-2026 fee structure lists Year 7–9 at 78,946 AED annually, Year 10–11 at 88,813 AED annually, and Year 12–13 at 98,681 AED annually, with term-specific amounts. Additional fees cover uniforms, excursions, and learning support, and examinations/transport may be invoiced separately; fees are subject to change in consultation with the Ministry of Education. 5. Start in the British Curriculum. The curriculum is organized into three stages: Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9), Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11), and Key Stage 5 / Sixth Form (Years 12–13). The school prepares students for GCSE examinations and AS/A2 levels, and all lessons are taught in English.
Scholarships	Scholarships The Emirati Scholars Programme prioritizes Emirati students for Year 7 admission, using contextual admissions criteria and assigning a Tutor for Emirati Scholars to monitor progress and provide targeted support. Applications are processed through the Year 7 entry pathway with defined dates; the programme reflects Dubai College's commitment to Emirati education within its selective admissions framework.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
	View full profile →	View full profile →