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United Arab Emirates, Dubai
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1. DESS operates three campuses: DESS Oud Metha (Primary 3–11), DESS Academic City (Primary 3–11), and DESS College (Secondary and Sixth Form, 11–18). The Oud Metha and Academic City Primary campuses sit in Dubai, and DESS College is located at Academic City. Families can book a tour to visit and learn more, and the Admissions Team provides guidance throughout the process.
2. The curriculum for the primary campuses follows the English National Curriculum, with a focus on Mathematics, Literacy, and Science. Early years use Continuous Provision in Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1, and from Year 2 there is a blend of Continuous Provision and Invent, Explore, Inspire (I.E.I.). The 6Cs Developing Character program focuses on collaboration, communication, critical thinking and related skills to prepare for life-long learning. The College follows Cambridge assessment routes (IGCSE and AS/A Levels) for secondary education.
3. Applications are invited for Foundation Stage (FS1), Years 1–6, Years 7–10, and Sixth Form. In 2025, Year 7 and Year 6 applications are closed due to full capacity, and Year 7 2026 applications closed on 5 December 2025. The Admissions Team guides applicants through the process.
4. The Admissions Office is located at DESS College, Academic City (Security Gate 2, Parent Services Reception). Book a Tour or a Virtual Tour to learn more, and the Admissions Team is available to answer questions.
5. Supporting documents include Birth Certificate (in English), Passport Copy, Recent Passport Photo, End of Year and Term/Mid-Year Academic Reports, CAT 4 (within last 12 months, if available), Emirates ID (if available), UAE Visa (if available), and external reports (Speech/Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Educational Psychologist, etc.). For overseas applicants, a reference from the current school may be requested.
6. Fees are published by campus and year group for 2025–26. Example: FS1 fees at Oud Metha are listed with separate term payments; Foundation Stage 2 and Years 1–6 have separate schedules; Academic City has higher base fees with a 15% discount for 2025–26 and 2026–27. Acceptance fees apply when a place is offered, and siblings receive tiered discounts. Payments can be made via the SKIPLY app or by bank transfer; bank details and invoicing guidance are provided by the Finance Team. Tours, match with a place, and other admissions steps are detailed in the Admissions section.
There is a waiting list for some year groups where capacity has been reached. For 2025, Year 7 and Year 6 applications are closed due to full capacity, and Year 7 2026 applications closed on 5 December 2025, indicating ongoing waitlist activity for affected cohorts.
