Dubai College vs Jumeirah English Speaking School

	D Dubai College Dubai, United Arab Emirates	J Jumeirah English Speaking School Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 97,415 - 110,305	Fees / year AED 54,129 - 104,544
Age range	Age range 11 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 1,140	Pupils 2,590
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 JESS Jumeirah is located at 28 8B Street, Al Safa 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits in central Dubai near Safa Park and is accessible from Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Wasl Road. JESS operates across two campuses: JESS Jumeirah and JESS Arabian Ranches, serving different year groups.
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 JESS Jumeirah provides Early Years and Primary education (Foundation Stage to Year 6, ~ages 3–11). JESS Arabian Ranches offers Foundation Stage through Year 13 (ages 3–18), including Secondary and Sixth Form. The Dubai KHDA inspection confirms a co‑educational, 3–18 range across the group, with separate campus sites for different phases.
School type	School type Dubai College is a co-educational, independent, not-for-profit school that follows the English National Curriculum.	School type JESS is a co-educational, not-for-profit day school. The school operates as a UAE-based not-for-profit with gender- balanced, mixed-gender classes.
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 KHDA DSIB 2023-2024 data for JESS Jumeirah shows 1,790 students on roll, Emirati students number 50, and the largest nationality group is UK. The school has 224 students of determination. (Ages 3–18; FS1–Year 13.)
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 Oasis Learning Support (SEN) department coordinates in-class support and individualized learning programmes. Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Services are available, with Gifted and Talented provision for Primary and Secondary.
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; JESS is a UAE-based not-for-profit school delivering UK/IB curricula.
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 JESS is non-denominational in its religious affiliation.
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 school year runs August to June with three terms. The typical school day runs from about 7:40am to 2:40pm, depending on year group.
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 JESS offers a school bus service to secondary students, operated by STS Group. Bus routes include Jumeirah, Al Wasl Road, Springs/Meadows/Lakes, and Meydan. To join, contact the STS Service Delivery Executive at STS@jess.sch.ae or 056-3693149.
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 Application fees - A non-refundable application fee of AED 500 is charged at the time of application. Tuition fees (per term and per year) - Foundation 1: AED 18,043 per term / AED 54,129 per year. - Primary (Foundation 2 to Year 6): AED 21,699 per term / AED 65,097 per year. - Secondary (Years 7–11): AED 30,641 per term / AED 91,923 per year. - Sixth Form (Years 12–13): AED 34,848 per term / AED 104,544 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are published both as per-term amounts and annual totals and are organised on a three-term academic year basis (three term amounts appear alongside the annual figure). Invoicing, exact payment deadlines and any acceptance/registration requirements are set out in the school's offer and payment instructions provided at offer/acceptance. Debentures and deposits - A personal debenture of AED 20,000 is required when a personal-debenture place is offered; this debenture is payable within the timeframe specified in the offer (the school requires payment of the personal debenture within five days of the offer) and remains with the child while enrolled. Personal debentures are refunded when the child leaves in accordance with the school's debenture rules; if less than the required one term's notice is given the personal debenture will not be refunded until the end of the following term. Corporate debentures (where available to eligible companies) follow separate rules. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. JESS operates as a day school and provides school transport for students rather than boarding accommodation. Other costs and optional charges - Additional, optional or conditional charges commonly apply and may include (ranges indicative where applicable): - School uniform and uniform kit costs. - Extracurricular activities and club/activity fees. - Devices / laptop charges where a device is required. - Educational visits, local and international school trips (variable by trip). - Canteen / meal costs, photographs and optional school services. - Transport (school bus) charges for those using the school bus service; bus service provision and route availability are published separately. - These additional charges are raised separately to tuition and are billed or collected according to the school's published optional services procedures. Refund information (tuition, deposits, debenture) - Personal debentures are refunded when the child leaves the school, subject to the debenture rules (including the notice-related condition described above). - Tuition refunds and registration/re-registration deposit treatment follow the applicable KHDA Schools Registration and Refund Policy: in general, registration/re-registration deposits are not refundable except in specified extenuating circumstances; tuition paid prior to the start of an academic year is refundable with the registration/re-registration deposit deducted; after a student has started, refunds (if any) are calculated according to the KHDA schedule that uses the date of official withdrawal and the term in which the withdrawal occurs. The KHDA policy sets the framework schools must follow for calculation and processing of refunds. Fee payment options and banking details - Accepted payment methods include bank transfer and cheque. Bank transfer details and payment instructions are provided by the school (bank, IBAN and SWIFT information are supplied for bank payments); cheques should be made payable as instructed and must include the child's name and invoice reference as required by the school's accounts team. A copy of the payment confirmation should be sent to the school accounts email address as instructed in the school's payment details. Important administrative notes - The application fee is non-refundable. Payment timing and any further deposits or registration payments required to secure a place are specified in the offer and registration documentation for each successful application. Personal debenture and other deposit rules are governed by the school's debenture policy and must be observed for eligibility, payment timing and refund conditions.
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 —
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 JESS has a dining facility referred to as JESS Diner.
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 The House System allocates each student from Foundation to Year 13 to a house. Primary houses are Falco, Tahr, Oryx, and Panthera; Secondary houses are Falco, Tahr, Oryx, and Panthera.
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 The school is governed by a Board of Governors that provides oversight of operations and long-term strategy. It is a not-for-profit school.
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 JESS Dubai delivers a British-based curriculum across two campuses—Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches—for Early Years and Primary up to Year 6, with the same programme on both sites. The curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England and is adapted to the UAE context, with Foundation Stage (EYFS) and play-based learning in FS1–FS2, progressing to cross-curricular learning in KS1 and KS2. Primary (Foundation 2 to Year 6) combines traditional subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Art, Design & Technology, Computing, Music, and Physical Education with Arabic and Islamic Studies for Muslim students and a Moral & Social Curriculum. Secondary (Years 7–9, Key Stage 3) follows the English National Curriculum, with Year 9 GCSE option selections for Years 10–11 and GCSE examinations in up to nine subjects. Sixth Form (Years 12–13) offers two pathways: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme or the BTEC Plus Extended Diploma, with the latter being equivalent to three A-Levels and including specialist courses in Art & Design, Business, and Sport.
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 JESS places wellbeing at the heart of its approach to social and emotional learning (SEL). The school uses a Wellbeing Wheel with eight indicators to discuss and monitor student wellbeing: safe, healthy, active, achieving, responsible, respected, included, and nurtured. Wellbeing data is embedded in daily operations and used to plan care and support for individual students. Through all facets of school life, students and staff participate in activities that promote mental and physical wellbeing, with students empowered to take ownership and have their voices heard. Students feel safe to express themselves and to contribute as full members of the community.
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) JESS is an inclusive school that aims to discover the brilliance in every individual. The need for additional care and support may be recognised prior to entry, during school-based assessments, or via external reports. The Oasis (Learning Support) department may coordinate and deliver in-class support, personalised learning programmes, modified or reduced curricula, or an individual education plan (IEP); the arrangement is graduated and adaptive and part of the Standard School Service. The Counselling team provides play-based counselling sessions, friendship group formation, and guidance for parents and teachers. Provision includes Occupational Therapy Services and Speech and Language Services; some students may access specialist external support when appropriate. The school also runs a Gifted and Talented Programme for Primary and Secondary. The school is not a specialist SEN institution; it emphasises inclusive education.
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 The Admissions criteria require that applicants be fluent in English at an age-appropriate level; if English is not the applicant's first language or the applicant is multilingual, the English as an Additional Language Policy is referenced. This indicates that EAL support is provided under policy for non-native English speakers. Details of the EAL policy are published in the school policies and procedures framework.
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 integrated into JESS's wellbeing framework. The Wellbeing Wheel identifies eight indicators and is used to monitor and discuss wellbeing, with data informing planning of care and support. The school provides opportunities for mental and physical activities, access to care and support, and a sense of belonging where voices are heard and individuals feel safe to express themselves. A counselling service and a range of wellbeing interventions support emotional health, with external verification of effectiveness from wellbeing awards and KHDA evaluations.
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 JESS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all its students and staff, with safeguarding policies and procedures in place for staff and learners. Staff recruitment follows rigorous safety practices, including identity checks, qualification checks, online social media checks, and criminal background checks. All candidates are required to provide police clearance certificates for every country in which they have resided, with UK applicants also requiring Enhanced DBS and an International Child Protection Certificate (ICPC). A minimum of three satisfactory professional references is required, and safeguarding guidance is integrated into the school's policies and procedures.
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 JESS Dubai operates two campuses in Dubai: Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches. The Jumeirah campus, located in Al Safa 1 and established in 1976, is described as a green oasis with low-rise buildings, abundant greenery and outdoor play spaces, offering views of the Burj Khalifa. Arabian Ranches is the larger site opened in 2005 that brings the three schools—Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form—together on one campus, featuring outdoor covered spaces, an amphitheatre and courtyards for performances, and classrooms that overlook extensive grass sport fields. Both campuses provide a 25-meter swimming pool for swimming (nine lanes at Arabian Ranches and six lanes at Jumeirah) and indoor multi-court spaces for PE and nets/basketball, with spectator areas and changing facilities. The libraries are a central part of the learning environment on both campuses, and digital resources are supported by Sway Libraries.
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 Arabian Ranches campus features outdoor covered spaces, an amphitheatre and courtyards for performances, and extensive grass sports fields. Indoor facilities include five indoor courts for basketball and netball, forming part of a dedicated indoor sport space. Each campus has a 25-meter pool for swimming (nine lanes at Arabian Ranches; six lanes at Jumeirah) with lifeguards and seating/changing areas. The school's sport provisions extend to a broad PE program and competitive opportunities across local and international events.
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 Libraries play a central role in learning across both campuses, with libraries integral to the curriculum. Digital resources are available via Sway Libraries, accessed through the parent portal.
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 JESS offers a broad co-curricular program with after-school activities and holiday clubs run through external providers. The performing arts program features regular productions and shows, with events such as dance performances and school theatre in campus spaces like auditoria and amphitheatres. The school maintains a House System and Student Leadership opportunities to engage students beyond the classroom.
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 JESS was founded in 1975 to meet the demand for high-quality, affordable British education for expatriate families in Dubai. It began in a small apartment near the Deira Clock Tower with 17 pupils. A year later, land was gifted by HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and JESS moved to a villa in Jumeirah, where it expanded into a leading primary school. In 2005, the Arabian Ranches campus opened to accommodate growing demand, establishing two campuses and three schools. Today, JESS operates two campuses and three schools (Jumeirah Primary, Arabian Ranches Primary, Arabian Ranches Secondary) with over 2,300 students from around the world.
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 JESS describes its community as diverse and close-knit, with a packed calendar of events and activities that bring students, families, and staff together for charitable initiatives and cultural celebrations. Parents Groups (JPGs) are a central part of the community, open to all parents and active at both the Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches campuses. An active Alumni network keeps former pupils connected with current students and school life. International Day celebrations at both campuses showcase cultural diversity through performances, parades, and food experiences.
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 JESS structures parent involvement through Parents Groups (JPGs), a major part of the school community and open to all parents. JPGs operate at both campuses and coordinate a wide range of events throughout the year that involve students, families, and staff. Parents volunteers play an active role in planning and delivering activities, fundraising, and supporting school initiatives. JPGs provide opportunities for parents to gain insight into daily school operations and to model civic engagement for their children. In addition to JPGs, the school maintains an Alumni network and a range of after-school providers that extend parent engagement beyond classroom hours.
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 The school follows the English National Curriculum for England, adapted for its UAE context. The Early Years and Primary curriculum is based on the National Curriculum for England, with Foundation Stage play-based learning and a cross-curricular approach in Key Stages 1–2. In Secondary, learners study the National Curriculum for England with GCSEs, and the Sixth Form offers either the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme or a BTEC pathway. The school operates three schools across two sites, with Secondary and Sixth Form based at Arabian Ranches; examination results are published for GCSE, IB, and BTEC, and many students gain offers to top universities worldwide.
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 Performing Arts are central to life at JESS, with dance, drama, and music offered across the school; ensembles and concerts occur throughout the year. Drama includes opportunities to take LAMDA examinations and participate in productions and theatre trips. The Music department provides instrument lessons and ensembles, with students able to perform in concerts and pursue external examinations; many alumni have studied music at universities such as NYU, Berklee, and Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. The arts are integrated with the curriculum and a broad co-curricular arts programme supports ongoing participation across the school.
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 Al Ajyaal is a whole‑school programme designed to prepare Emirati students to become leaders of the future within the UAE. Moral, Social and Cultural Studies (MSC) is delivered throughout the curriculum to meet UAE national goals. English is the language of instruction and the school follows the English National Curriculum year‑group structure; admission requires fluency in English to access the curriculum.
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 The Co‑Curricular programme includes the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award for Secondary and the MaD Award for Primary, with additional trips and service experiences such as the Philanthropic Schools Award organized by KHDA. The Extracurricular Programme spans Sports ECAs, Performing Arts ECAs, Creative ECAs, Academic ECAs, and Wellbeing ECAs, with termly changes and wide participation. Trips and visits extend learning beyond the classroom and include local, national, and international experiences.
Community & service	Community & service Dubai College has community structures including the Dubai College Foundation, Alumni network and Friends of Dubai College.	Community & service Duke of Edinburgh's International Award and MaD Award foster service, leadership, and community engagement. Trips and visits include service experiences and KHDA philanthropic initiatives. The Al Ajyaal Programme focuses on Emirati leadership and community contributions, supporting Emirati students' development within the school context.
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 Student leadership is embedded across the school, with Head Students selected in Year 6 and Year 12 and leadership opportunities available throughout the school. The university guidance team supports Sixth Form students with course decisions, personal statements, and university applications. The Duke of Edinburgh Award also fosters leadership and service as part of a broader leadership development approach.
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 Life at JESS is holistic, with extensive participation in sports, the arts, cultural activities, philanthropy, and trips, underpinned by a strong pastoral system. The Counselling team provides confidential, developmentally appropriate support and therapy, with qualified practitioners and a structured model to promote resilience and well‑being. The school emphasizes well‑being across its programme, integrating mental health and pastoral care with academic and co‑curricular life.
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 English is the language of instruction and the school follows the English National Curriculum year group structure. English as an Additional Language policy provides support for students who are not native English speakers. Arabic language teaching and Islamic Education are part of the UAE curriculum; Emirati students may be required to study Arabic A and Islamic A, with the Al Ajyaal (Future Leaders) Programme supporting Emirati learners. The UAE National Agenda emphasizes reading and literacy in Arabic and English, and libraries play an integral role in developing these skills.
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Reputation	Reputation
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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. Identify the correct year group and intended start. JESS uses a debenture-based system to hold places and manage waiting lists, with corporate debentures no longer available for purchase and personal debentures used to secure a place. Personal Debentures are AED 20,000 and are not payable until a place is offered; they remain in place while the child is enrolled and are refunded when the child leaves, subject to policy. 2. Choose the waiting-list route. Waiting lists are open to Corporate Debenture Holders or Emirati Nationals, and FS1 and Year 7 siblings can apply for waiting-list consideration. If a place is not yet available, the waiting list remains in place according to the applicable route. 3. Check current year-group availability. For 2025-26, all year groups are stated as full with over-subscribed waiting lists. Sixth Form Year 12 2025/26 is closed to new applications, with information available for Year 12 2026/27. 4. Learn how to apply to waiting lists. FS1 and Year 7 for personal applications are two years in advance of enrolment; Personal Debenture applications are opened only when waiting lists fall below a threshold. Corporate Debenture or Emirati National applications can be submitted when the relevant waiting lists are open; check the monthly admissions updates for openings. 5. Understand the offer process. The timing of an offer depends on the year group and whether the place starts at the beginning of the academic year or mid-year; the offer procedure and required documentation differ by year group and are detailed in the offer letter and Admissions Policy. 6. Complete KHDA registration if an offer is accepted. To register with KHDA, a Transfer Certificate from the current school must be provided, with attestation guidelines applicable for the country of origin; the original TC must be submitted before attendance. 7. Confirm the debenture and deposit payments. If a Personal Debenture place is offered, the school deposit must be paid within 5 days and the Personal Debenture paid in full before starting; Debentures remain in place while the child is enrolled and are refunded when the child leaves, subject to terms. Corporate Debentures are no longer available; a separate debenture is required for each child. 8. Review the fees and payment options. An application/non-refundable fee of AED 500 applies; annual and term-based fee amounts are published for Foundation 1, Primary, Secondary, and Sixth Form, with payment options and banking details available. 9. Contact the Admissions team for confirmation or questions.
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 The school uses waiting lists for most year groups. Waiting-list entry is available for Corporate Debenture Holders (all years except Years 10–13) and Emirati Nationals, and FS1 and Year 7 siblings may join waiting lists. Due to high application volumes, responses are limited to Emirati Nationals or Corporate Debenture Holders, and response time for other categories may be limited. FS1 and Year 7 personal applications are two years in advance of enrolment; Personal Debenture waiting lists operate when waiting lists fall below a threshold. For 2025-26, most year groups are reported as full with oversubscribed waiting lists, and Sixth Form Year 12 2025/26 is closed to new applications. Offers and waiting-list status are managed per year group, with monthly updates guiding when personal debentures may reopen. The team can be contacted via the Admissions page for current waiting-list openings and eligibility.
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