Dubai has a well-established ballet scene catering to children, teenagers, and adults, with many schools following internationally recognised syllabuses such as the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and the Vaganova method.
Whether you are looking for beginner ballet classes for young children or structured training for exams and performances, Dubai offers a wide range of professional options.
This guide covers the best ballet classes in Dubai, including locations, fees, teaching methods, and what each school is best known for.
- Top ballet schools in Dubai
- Other notable ballet studios in Dubai
- Comparison of top ballet schools in Dubai
- Exams and annual performances
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Top ballet schools in Dubai
Dubai’s leading ballet schools share a focus on technique, discipline, and progression, with many offering trial classes before enrolment.
1. Melodica Music Academy
Melodica Music Academy is one of the most accessible ballet schools in Dubai, with a large network of branches and a structured international curriculum. It offers ballet classes for both children and adults, following the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus alongside elements of the Vaganova method.
Classes
- Children from age 4 (Ballerina level, Pre-Primary to Grade 8)
- Adult ballet classes focusing on technique, strength, and flexibility
Highlights
RAD-based curriculum, certified instructors, wide location coverage, exam preparation, and annual stage performances
Locations
It has multiple locations across Dubai, including the following:
- Dubai Hills Mall
- Palm Jumeirah (Nakheel Mall)
- Al Wasl Road (Wasl Vita Mall)
- Al Furjan Pavilion
- Silicon Central Mall
Contact information
- +971 4 458 0542
- +971 4 424 3039
- +971 4 385 5510
- +971 4 566 7463
- +971 4 294 6618
2. The National Ballet Studio
Founded in 2013 by Helen Ainsworth, The National Ballet Studio focuses on classical ballet education with a strong emphasis on etiquette, posture, and professional standards. The school follows the Royal Academy of Dance system and is particularly well regarded for early-years ballet training.
Classes
- Beginner ballet for ages 3–6 across four progressive levels
- Progressive training focused on coordination, posture, and classical technique
- Exam preparation from Pre-Primary to Advanced 2, alongside performances and audition coaching
- Additional classes in Contemporary Dance and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT)
Highlights
RAD-certified instructors, strong emphasis on stagecraft and professionalism, comprehensive exam preparation, and annual stage productions at established venues such as The Theatre at Mall of the Emirates. Selected students have also been awarded places at international intensives with institutions including The Royal Ballet and English National Ballet.
Location
It is located on Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Qouz Industrial First – Dubai
Contact information
- Phone: +971 54 711 7376
- Email: marie@thenationalballetstudio.com
3. Aspire Ballet Dubai
Aspire Ballet Dubai offers structured classical ballet training in a professional studio environment, welcoming students from the age of three through to adults. The school follows the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus alongside the Vaganova method, with a strong focus on discipline, confidence, and performance quality across all levels.
Classes
- Ballet classes for children from age 3, progressing from introductory “Stars” levels to Pre-Primary and higher vocational stages
- Pre-professional programmes are designed for students preparing for examinations, competitions, and potential professional dance careers
- Specialised ballet training including Pointe work, Repertoire, and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT)
- Contemporary dance classes are available for students from the age of 10
Highlights
Performance-oriented training with regular stage exposure, including hosting the Dubai International Dance Competition (DIDC). Strong exam preparation for both Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and British Theatre Dance Association (BTDA) assessments. Founded by Heba Mostafa, the academy frequently welcomes international guest teachers and masterclasses, including instructors trained in the Vaganova tradition.
Location
It is located in Nadd Hessa – 16 Dunes St – Dubai
Contact information
- Phone: +971 55 349 8132
- Email: aspireballetdubai@gmail.com
4. The Ballet Centre Dubai
Founded in 1985, The Ballet Centre Dubai is the city’s first and longest-running dance school. Officially approved by KHDA, the centre is widely recognised for its classical ballet and performing arts training, as well as its purpose-built facilities and long-standing commitment to nurturing talent across generations.
Classes
- Classical ballet following the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus for children from ages 2.5–3 (Tiny Tots) through to adults
- Specialised dance training, including ISTD Tap and Modern
- Performing arts programmes covering Musical Theatre (acting and singing) and drama
- Fitness and movement disciplines such as ITF Taekwondo, Yoga, and Rhythmic Gymnastics
- Music educatio,n including piano, violin, flute, and guitar (Trinity and ABRSM syllabuses), alongside arts and crafts workshops
Highlights
Dubai’s original ballet school with over four decades of teaching experience. Fully KHDA-approved and an authorised centre for annual RAD and ISTD examinations. Purpose-built facilities include multiple studios with wooden sprung floors, wall mirrors, and dedicated music rooms with pianos. The centre places strong emphasis on performance, organising annual stage shows and recitals and preparing students for local and international dance competitions.
Locations
- Jumeirah (Main Branch): Villa 64, 16C Street, Al Safa
- Motor City Branch: Offices 602 and 603, Detroit House, Motor City, Dubai.
Contact information
- Phone numbers
- +971 4 344 9776
- +971 50 379 3221
- Emails
- balletct@emirates.net.ae
- balletct@emirates.net.ae
5. Classic Dance Studio
Classic Dance Studio, also known as Classic Dance Institute, specialises in introducing young children to ballet from as early as 2.5 years old. The school follows a child-friendly adaptation of the Vaganova (Russian) method, focusing on grace, coordination, musicality, and confidence-building in a supportive learning environment.
Classes
- Mom and Baby Ballet for children aged 2.5–3.5, delivered in 40-minute sessions.
- Beginner Ballet for ages 3.5–7, with 45-minute classes focusing on basic technique and rhythm.
- Junior and Advanced Ballet for students aged 7–15, delivered in 55-minute sessions.
- Ballet Barre classes for adults, available at selected branches such as JLT and JBR.
Locations
Classic Dance Studio operates multiple branches across Dubai.
- Dubai Hills Estate
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Marina
- Jumeirah Beach Residence
- Business Bay
Contact information
- Phone: +971 4 332 9400
- Email: info@classicdance.ae
Other notable ballet studios in Dubai
In addition to dedicated ballet schools, several multi-disciplinary studios also offer ballet classes.
- StepUp Academy: Ballet classes from infancy through adulthood; established in 2011
- StudioRepublik: Ballet classes available via ClassPass on Sheikh Zayed Road
Comparison of the top ballet schools in Dubai
This comparison gives a quick overview of the top ballet schools in Dubai, covering age groups, teaching methods, fees, locations, and key features to help you choose the right option.
| School | Age Group | Curriculum / Method | Fees | Locations | Key Features |
| Melodica Music Academy | Kids 4+, Adults | RAD, Vaganova | ~AED 100–120 per class (monthly packages) | 25+ branches across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah & Al Ain | Pre-professional training, competitions, and international masterclasses |
| The National Ballet Studio | Ages 3–6+ | RAD | Free trial available | Dubai (Al Quoz) | Exam preparation (Pre-Primary to Advanced 2), stage productions, and professional classical training |
| Aspire Ballet Dubai | Ages 3+, Teens & Adults | RAD, Vaganova | On request (term-based) | Dubai (Silicon Oasis) | Pre-professional training, competitions, international masterclasses |
| The Ballet Centre Dubai | Ages 2.5+, Teens & Adults | RAD, ISTD | Flexible plans | Dubai (Jumeirah & Motor City) | KHDA-approved, authorised RAD & ISTD exam centre, long-established |
| Classic Dance Studio | Ages 2.5–15, Adults (Barre) | Vaganova (adapted) | Subscription-based; trial from AED 30 | 9 locations across Dubai | Child-focused ballet, bilingual instruction, and regular performances |
Exams and annual performances
Most professional ballet schools in Dubai prepare students for graded ballet examinations, commonly following the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus. These exams provide internationally recognised certifications and are an essential milestone for children and dedicated students progressing through structured levels.
In addition to exams, many schools organise annual stage performances or end-of-year recitals, allowing students to perform in a theatre-style setting. These productions are a significant highlight of the training year and enable students to build confidence, stage presence, and performance discipline.
Key takeaways
Dubai offers a strong selection of ballet schools following internationally recognised standards, notably the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus. Melodica Music Academy stands out for accessibility and branch coverage, while The National Ballet Studio and Aspire Ballet Dubai focus on classical technique and performance progression. Trial classes are widely available, and most professional schools support long-term development through graded exams and annual stage performances.
FAQs
Melodica Music Academy and The National Ballet Studio are popular choices for beginners, especially young children, thanks to structured levels and trial classes.
Prices vary by school. Entry-level classes typically start from around AED 100–120 per class, with most academies offering monthly packages or flexible plans.
Yes. Many leading schools use the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, often combined with elements of the Vaganova method.
Yes. Several schools, including Melodica Music Academy and The Ballet Centre Dubai, offer adult ballet classes focusing on technique, fitness, and flexibility.
Most schools allow trial classes to be booked online through their official websites or by contacting the studio directly.
