Finding Schools in Dubai: 4 Authoritative Directories

Dubai has 200+ private schools (17 curricula). Use these official and trusted sources to search, compare, and verify.

1. KHDA School Directory (Official Regulator)

Best for: Verified data, inspection ratings, fees, curriculum, location, contact.

• Website: khda.gov.ae/en/schooldirectory
• Filter by: Curriculum (UK, IB, US, Indian, etc.), Rating (Outstanding → Weak), Area, Fees range.
• Each profile: DSIB inspection report, KHDA rating history, facilities, admissions contact.

2. Dubai Schools Agency (Government Portal)

Best for: Admissions policies, transfer rules, government initiatives.

• Website: schools.adec.ac.ae (redirects to KHDA now; legacy link).

3. WhichSchoolAdvisor.com (Independent Review Site)

Best for: Parent reviews, detailed curriculum analysis, fee breakdowns, "Best Schools" lists, expat forums.

• Website: whichschooladvisor.com/dubai/schools
• Comparative tools, "School of the Year" awards.

4. Major Operator Websites (For Their Networks)

• GEMS Education: gemseducation.com (largest operator, 40+ schools).
• Taaleem: taaleem.ae (IB-focused).
• Innoventures (Raffles, DIA): innoventureseducation.com.
• Esol Education: esoleducation.com.

Pro Tips

• **Visit** shortlisted schools—virtual tours available post-COVID.
• Check **KHDA Rating** (Outstanding/Very Good/Good/Acceptable/Weak)—correlates with outcomes.
• Confirm **curriculum continuity** if relocating mid-year.
• Ask about **waitlists, deposit, debenture** policies.