Are Schools Expensive in Dubai?

By Michael Ferguson

Dubai is a popular destination for expats due to its booming economy and diverse culture. However, one of the concerns that parents may have before moving to Dubai is the cost of education for their children. In this article, we will explore whether schools are expensive in Dubai or not.

What are the Types of Schools in Dubai

In Dubai, there are three types of schools: public schools, private schools, and international schools. Public schools are government-funded and offer education for free or at a low cost.

Private schools, on the other hand, are privately owned and funded by tuition fees paid by parents. International schools cater to students from all over the world and offer different curricula like American, British, Indian, French, etc.

How Much Does Education Cost in Dubai

The cost of education in Dubai varies depending on the type of school and curriculum. Public schools are generally cheaper than private or international schools as they receive government funding. However, admission to public schools is limited to Emirati citizens only.

Private and international schools have higher tuition fees than public schools but offer better facilities and quality of education. According to a survey conducted by HSBC in 2019, the average annual cost of education in Dubai is around AED 64,000 (USD 17,400) per child for primary school and AED 67,000 (USD 18,200) per child for secondary school.

Tuition Fees Breakdown

  • Tuition fees for primary school range from AED 12,000 (USD 3,270) to AED 100,000 (USD 27,200) per year depending on the school’s reputation and facilities.
  • Tuition fees for secondary school range from AED 20,000 (USD 5,450) to AED 130,000 (USD 35,400) per year depending on the school’s reputation and facilities.
  • International schools tend to be more expensive than private schools with tuition fees ranging from AED 50,000 (USD 13,600) to AED 130,000 (USD 35,400) per year.

Additional Costs

In addition to tuition fees, parents may have to pay for other expenses like transportation, uniforms, textbooks, extracurricular activities, and school trips. These costs can add up and increase the overall cost of education in Dubai.

Conclusion

Education in Dubai can be expensive compared to other countries. However, it is important to note that the cost of education varies depending on the type of school and curriculum.

Parents should consider their budget and priorities before choosing a school for their children. It is also recommended to research different schools and compare their tuition fees and facilities before making a decision.

In conclusion, while schools in Dubai may not come cheaply, there are options available that cater to different budgets and provide quality education for children.