Best Schools Near Dubai Hills Estate

 

7 of The Top Schools Near Dubai Hills Estate

While schools directly within the estate are limited, several excellent options lie just 10-20 minutes away. This guide explores the top schools in proximity, that families in Dubai Hills Estate can consider for their children’s education.

 

GEMS World Academy Dubai (GWA) is an exceptional choice for families in Dubai Hills, offering a comprehensive PreK to Grade 12 International Baccalaureate (IB) education. As the first school within the GEMS network to provide the full IB continuum, GWA stands out with its Primary Years, Middle Years, Diploma, and Career-related Programmes. The school features an international student body with over 92 nationalities and a mother tongue programme covering 16 languages. GWA's state-of-the-art facilities include a top-notch theatre, an impressive two-storey library with peaceful gardens, specialised tech areas, and an exclusive 3D planetarium. The school's educational approach encourages students to be inquirers, thinkers, and communicators, evidenced by a 92% IB Diploma pass rate in 2023. With a 400m athletics track, Olympic-sized swimming pool, and elite sports programmes, GWA  excels academically and also supports athletic development, making it a premier educational institution.

KHDA Rating: Very Good
Fees Range: AED 67,719 – AED 117,552
Accreditation & Partnerships: International Baccalaureate (IB), Council of International Schools (CIS), New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), Young Arab Leaders, Wamda, She is Arab, Al Tamimi Law Firm, American University of Dubai, United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Global Schools Programme, DASSA (Dubai Affiliated School Sport Association), Dubai School Games, Sports Leaders Award UK (operating name The British Sports Trust), Instituto Cervantes, Association of Science Education, Near East South Asia, Eco-Schools Programme
 

Safa Community School, established in 2014, is a distinguished institution in Dubai, recognised by the Dubai Inspectorate of Schools as Very Good with Outstanding features and by the BSO as Outstanding. This accolade reflects the school's exceptional quality despite its relatively recent beginnings. Safa Community School offers a comprehensive British curriculum from the Early Years Foundation Stage to Sixth Form, with A Levels, International A Levels, and BTEC qualifications. The school’s leadership is outstanding, cultivating an energetic environment where individual learning is prioritised. This is evidenced by unique offerings such as part-time attendance for FS1 students and inclusive policies supporting children of determination and those with exceptional talents. With an impressive range of 32 A Level options, including modern subjects like Economics and Media, the school ensures flexible and varying academic pathways. Its state-of-the-art facilities, strong focus on student well-being, and extracurricular programmes make Safa Community School a top choice for families seeking a holistic and high-quality education near Dubai Hills.

KHDA Rating: Outstanding
Fees Range: AED 51,191 – AED 84,106
Accreditation & Partnerships: British Schools Overseas (BSO), British Schools Middle East (BSME), Duke of Edinburgh Award, London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA), The World Scholar's Cup, The Alliance for Sustainable Schools (TASS)

 

Kings’ School Al Barsha, part of the esteemed Kings’ Schools network, has grown from 650 to 2,650 students since its opening in 2014. Supported by 210 predominantly British teachers and 84 teaching assistants, the school offers an enriched National Curriculum for England from FS1 to Year 13. Students work towards GCSE, IGCSE, or BTEC Level 2 qualifications, followed by A-Level or BTEC Level 3 pre-university courses. The curriculum includes specialist teaching in French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, PE, ICT, and Music. The school emphasises hands-on learning, global citizenship, and integrates the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Kings’ School Al Barsha hosts state-of-the-art facilities, including a fully digital campus, Black Box Theatre, extensive science and art labs, a recording studio, and premier sports amenities. With a strong focus on student well-being, creative teaching, and a vast array of extracurricular activities, Kings’ School Al Barsha provides inspiring and comprehensive education.

 

KHDA Rating: Outstanding
Fees Range: AED 55,231 – AED 99,699
Accreditation & Partnerships: British Schools Overseas (BSO), British Schools Middle East (BSME), Duke of Edinburgh Award, London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts (LAMDA), The World Scholar's Cup, The Alliance for Sustainable Schools (TASS)

 

GEMS Wellington Academy, in Dubai Hills Estate, is a good choice for families in the area looking for an educational institution offering an enhanced UK National Curriculum. Known for its world-class facilities and a strong commitment to student well-being, the academy was rated Very Good in the latest DSIB inspection. Parents highlight the school's dedication to putting children first, with a focus on wellbeing and success as a result of excellent sports, arts, and music facilities, along with several clubs and extracurricular activities. The academy excels in its Post-16 offerings with various A Level and BTEC courses including Bio-Medical Sciences, Entrepreneurship, and Computer Science. State-of-the-art amenities such as science labs, technology facilities, auditoriums, and specialist classrooms enhance the learning experience. With a focus on personalised learning and a holistic curriculum, GEMS Wellington Academy nurtures each student’s academic journey, supported by outstanding teachers and comprehensive extracurricular opportunities. This inclusive approach celebrates diversity and prepares students for future challenges, so they excel academically and personally.

 

KHDA Rating: Very Good
Fees Range: AED 45,259 – AED 89,476
Accreditation & Partnerships: British Schools Overseas (BSO), British Schools Middle East (BSME), Council of British International Schools (COBIS), National Online Safety Certified, Learning Ladders - Member School 

 

Brighton College Dubai in Al Barsha South was established in 2018 and offers a British curriculum from Foundation Stage to Year 13. As part of the Brighton College family known for global excellence, the school combines traditional British educational values with the culture of Dubai. The school has rapidly gained popularity among parents, thanks to its exceptional leadership, dedicated teachers, and overall quality. Happiness resonates throughout the school community, reflecting its success in creating a supportive and inspiring environment. Despite its youth, Brighton College Dubai has firmly established itself as a leading choice for families seeking a high-standard British education in the Middle East. The curriculum includes International Primary Curriculum adaptations and progresses to International GCSEs and A-levels, ensuring a comprehensive academic journey for students as they prepare for higher education and beyond.

KHDA Rating: Very Good
Fees Range: AED 65,920 – AED 110,210
Accreditation & Partnerships: British School Overseas (BSO), Council of British International Schools (COBIS), British Schools of the Middle East (BSME), Best New School in the UAE 2018-2023 by SchoolsCompared

 

Located near Dubai Hills Estate, GEMS International School (GIS) stands out as a leading school in the area. Established in 2013 and situated alongside GEMS Wellington Academy Al Khail, GIS accommodates over 1,800 students, reflecting a diverse international community. The school prides itself on a low teacher-to-student ratio of 1:12, with a highly qualified faculty from 22 nations, many of whom are IB examiners and workshop leaders. GIS offers the IB continuum—Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (IBDP) – focusing on critical thinking and inquiry-based learning essential for navigating a demanding world. Recognised as a GEMS 'Centre of Excellence', GIS excels in science, mathematics, and arts, with specialised facilities for aeronautics, aviation, and space exploration. The introduction of the IB Career-related Programme and UK BTEC qualifications expands educational pathways, emphasising vocational and technical skills aligned with global industry demands. GIS also has a partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University allowing students exceptional higher-educational opportunities.

KHDA Rating: Good
Fees Range: AED 49,914 – AED 75,695
Accreditation & Partnerships: IB World School, Council of International Schools (CIS), College Board, The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, Schools Compared Top Schools Award for the Best School in the UAE for STEAM

 

Bloom World Academy, launched in August 2022 by Bloom Education, represents a bold departure in educational philosophy within Dubai's school landscape. Unlike traditional British-focused institutions, Bloom World Academy embraces a progressive, child-centric approach grounded in the International Baccalaureate framework. Central to its ethos is a strong emphasis on whole-school and parental engagement in the Performing Arts, fostering a distinctive "Bloom" culture in a remarkably short time. The school addresses parental needs with flexible drop-off and pick-up times, easing daily stress.

Operating on a 'stage not age' philosophy, Bloom World Academy organises students into five distinct phases – from Primo to Nexus – tailoring education to individual interests and abilities rather than rigid academic year levels. The curriculum extends beyond classrooms into specialised zones like science, performing arts, and languages, enhancing holistic development. Notably, the school pioneers a later 9 am start time to respect sleep cycles, complemented by comprehensive wraparound care and multiple co-curricular activities.

KHDA Rating: Not inspected yet
Fees Range: AED 40,500 – AED 75,000
Accreditation & Partnerships: IB World School, British Schools Overseas (BSO)

 

Closing Thoughts

Selecting the right school will impact children's growth and development while also shaping their academic journey. Education develops personal and social skills and lays the foundation for future success. A supportive educational environment tailored to their needs enhances learning and builds confidence, preparing them to navigate the challenges of tomorrow with resilience and enthusiasm. The schools near Dubai Hills Estate offer various educational philosophies, ensuring a well-rounded experience that encourages both academic excellence and personal growth.