Schools in Dubai: choosing and preparing enrolment

Build an initial shortlist

The KHDA directory lists curricula, grades, locations, fee information and reports for private schools. Use it to shortlist several schools suited to your desired curriculum. A rating or reputation alone is not enough: prepare questions about languages, learning support, activities and continuity if you may later return to France or move elsewhere.

• KHDA — private school directory ↗

Read the fee sheet for the right grade

The School Fees Fact Sheet sets out mandatory and optional charges for the academic year and forms part of the parent-school contract. Read the sheet for your child’s grade and intended year. Then request a payment schedule and a summary of the costs relevant to you, including transport, meals, uniforms, materials and activities.

• KHDA — understanding the School Fees Fact Sheet ↗

Get admission requirements in writing

Contact each admissions team to confirm availability, any assessments and the exact documents required. Gather your existing identity and school records, then check translation, attestation or transfer-certificate requirements for your country of departure and your child’s schooling history. A generic application is not an accepted place: request a written offer and read payment, cancellation and refund terms.

• KHDA — guides for parents ↗

Test real life around the school

Visit the school and travel from two or three prospective homes at drop-off and pick-up times. Ask the school transport provider whether it serves the exact address and what journey time it quotes. Also plan after-school activities, childcare and days without classes. Our area guides help locate schools; they do not guarantee places or journey times.