Best American Schools in Dubai

If you chose the US educational system for your child but didn’t find the best American school in the emirate yet, no worries. Dubai has no shortage when it comes to international American schools with high educational standards.

This article includes a list of the top American schools in Dubai with all the details so you can pick the ideal one for your kid. 

1.  GEMS Dubai American Academy
2. Universal American School
3. American School of Dubai
4. Mirdif American School
5. Collegiate International School
6. Dubai National School Al Barsha
7. Al Ittihad Private School Dubai
8. Al Mawakeb School Al Gharhoud
9. Greenwood International School
10. Dunecrest American School 
11. Clarion School
12. Al Khaleej International School
13. North American International School
14. American Academy for Girls

List of the Best American Curriculum Schools in Dubai

Many well-known educational institutions from throughout the world have their headquarters in Dubai, including schools using the American curriculum that stand out for their all-encompassing approach to education.

With its roots in the American educational tradition, these schools place a strong emphasis on critical thinking, creativity, and an international outlook. For parents looking for a setting that reflects American educational standards, Dubai has a wide range of elite American schools.

These schools are well-known for cultivating well-rounded pupils as well as for their cutting-edge facilities, extracurricular activities, and academic excellence. However, It’s important to take into account aspects like accreditation, student-teacher ratios, and community feedback while selecting the top American school in Dubai in order to make an informed choice.

Whether you’re coming from the US or not and searching for schools in Dubai with such a curriculum, here is the full list. 

Through it, you will find the top and affordable schools with an American curriculum in Dubai, including their fees, location, contact information, and more. 

1. GEMS Dubai American Academy

If you’re seeking an ideal learning experience for your kids with an American syllabus, then this one is the answer. This school maintains a reputation as one of the best American schools in Dubai.

This owes to their professional staff, offering your child a high-quality education, a healthy learning environment, and space to grow individually. It also develops the students’ technological, creative, thinking, and communication skills which are the new modern world needs.

In addition, the school provides its students the opportunity to pursue the IB Diploma to qualify them for the top international universities. Gems Dubai American Academy’s prime location in Al Barsha is one more reason to consider this notable school for your kids.

Location

It’s positioned on Hessa Street, Al Barsha 1, Al Barsha, Dubai. 

Close To

• Barsha Heights: 5 minutes away
• Al Sofouh: 10 minutes away
• Al Quoz: 15 minutes away

Fees

Facilities

• Green areas 
• Library 
• 2D and 3D art studios
• Running track
• Sports fields 
• Music rooms 
• Drama rooms 
• Olympic swimming pool
• Theatre

Highlights 

• This school boasts the reputation of being the only American school with an Outstanding KHDA rating in the UAE since 2011.

• Since its inception in 1998, the school has remained a strong entity in education which makes it a matchless learning institution. 

Admission

You can easily register for your kids through their online application form on the website.

KHDA Rating

Outstanding

Contact Details

• +971 (0)4 704 9777
• communication_daa@gemsedu.com

2. Universal American School

If you’re living in Dubai Festival City or working there and looking for an American school nearby for your kids, this is a good option. It’s among the notable ones as it cares about the students’ mental and educational development. 

This outstanding school tailors unique and creative learning techniques and methods for each educational stage; they make sure to meet students’ different needs and mindsets in each phase. 

Besides, as many of Dubai’s residents are expats, the school has English Language Learning Support; this helps the students acquire a foreign language while keeping their mother tongue language, which is a core part of their identity. 

Location

It’s located off Rebaat Street, Dubai Festival City, Dubai. 

Close To

• Umm Ramool: 5 minutes away
• Al Jaddaf: 10 minutes away
• Al Rashidiya: 10 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Greenery
• Fully-equipped art studios 
• Gym
• Football pitch
• Library 
• Arts activities 
• Indoor and outdoor play areas
• Science labs 
• Medical clinics 

Highlights

The Universal American School was founded in 2005, and it’s a non-profit school in Dubai Festival City. They are governed by Al Futtaim Education Foundation.

Admission

To apply, you should fill the online application form on the school’s official website. 

KHDA Rating

Very Good

Contact details

• +971 (0)4 232 5222
• Info@uasdubai.ae 

3. American School of Dubai

This is one of the top American schools in Dubai; it welcomes students through all the educational stages starting from Pre-K till high school. 

This makes it a good option if you’re looking for an American school for your kids in their different stages. In addition, they follow the latest learning techniques to provide the students with a high-quality educational experience. 

They also focus on the development process of each student through monitoring their interests and passion to grow on the personal side, too. In addition, your children are offered different sports activities which are important for their physical and mental health.

Location

It’s located at the intersection of Hessa Street and First Al Khalil Street, Al Barsha 1, Al Barsha, Dubai.

Close To

• Al Sufouh: 5 minutes away
• Dubai Internet City: 10 minutes away
• The Greens: 10 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Arts theatre 
• Sports fields 
• Recreational programs 
• Swimming pool
• Libraries
• Latest learning facilities
• Spacious classrooms

Highlights

• It’s one of the oldest American schools in Dubai, as it’s founded in 1966.

• They offer the students Service Learning Program in which the children take on various challenging activities and tasks on school trips. 

• It got the award of Overall Best School in the UAE in 2021-2022 by the Top Schools Awards.

• The American School of Dubai won an award of the Best American Curriculum School in the UAE in 2021-2022 by the Top Schools Awards.

• This iconic school won the Best School for Sport in UAE award in 2021-2022 by the Top Schools Awards.

Admission

You can apply for your kids online through their official website.

KHDA Rating

Good

Contact details

• +971 (0)4 395 0005
• asdadmin@asdubai.org

4. Mirdif American School

Are you looking for the best American school in Mirdif, Dubai? If yes, look no further, as Mirdif American School is surely a highly recommended one. It welcomes students in the stages from KG1 to Grade 8 with different nationalities and backgrounds.

The school was founded in 1995 so your child is in safe hands with such highly experienced leaders and staff who are mastering the educational field. 

Not just that, the school doesn’t include a huge number of students to ensure an inclusive and efficient learning atmosphere for all the pupils. 

Location

It’s located on Algeria Street, Al Mizhar 1, Dubai. 

Close To

• Al Khawaneej: 10 minutes away
• Al Rashidiya: 10 minutes away
• Al Qusais: 15 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Well-equipped classrooms 
• Art rooms 
• Playing areas
• Library
• Sports amenities 

Highlights 

• They have Arabic and Islamic departments, so the Arab and Muslim expats can enroll their children with no worries about their children’s cultural beliefs. 

• This one is among the best schools in Dubai for primary and elementary stages, as many parents recommend it. 

Admission

To start the enrollment process, you can fill the online form through the website.

KHDA Rating

Good

Contact details

• +971 (0)4 288 3303
• info@mirdifamericanschool.ae 

5. Collegiate International School

Here is one more option among the list of schools offering American curriculum schools in Dubai. Collegiate International School (CIS) is a private, coeducational school in Dubai. It was founded in 2011 and is located in the Umm Suqeim area. 

The school offers a US curriculum from kindergarten to grade 12 and is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). 

Besides, CIS has a strong focus on academic excellence and offers a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and arts programs. 

In addition, they are committed to providing a diverse and inclusive learning environment and welcome all students. CIS is a good American school in Dubai which you can surely consider. 

Location 

It’s located on Al Maydar Street, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai. 

Close To 

• Umm Al Sheif: 5 minutes away
• Al Safa: 10 minutes away
• Jumeirah: 15 minutes away

Fees

Highlights 

CIS is a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Association of American Schools in the Middle East (AASME).

Admission

To start the enrollment process, you can fill the online form through the website.

KHDA Rating

Good

Contact Information

+971 (0)4 427 1400

6. Dubai National School Al Barsha

On the list of the best schools in Dubai offering the American system, Dubai National School Al Barsha surely comes. It offers the students the best practices to reach a high educational level and meet the demands of the multinational culture in Dubai. 

Besides, they also greatly focus on the Arabic language, Islamic studies, social studies, and Moral education for both native and non-native Arabic students. 

Whatever the educational stage of your child, this one fits as it welcomes students in all stages. If you’re living in the Al Twar area, it has another branch there; it will be a supreme choice to save your time and effort. 

Location

It’s located on First Khalil Street, Al Barsha 1, Al Barsha, Dubai. 

Close To 

• Al Sufoh: 5 minutes away
• The Greens: 5 minutes away
• Emirates Hills: 15 minutes away

Fees 

Facilities 

• Clinic
• Cafeteria 
• Computer labs
• Sports indoor fields
• Science labs 
• Swimming pool
• Indoors and outdoors playing areas
• Libraries 
• Art rooms
• Lecture hall

Highlights

• The school was founded in 1988 and has acquired the NEASC accreditation since 2003.
• It’s one of the old schools in the city as it was founded in 1988. 

Admission

You can register online through the website.

KHDA Rating

Good

Contact Details

+971 (0)4 347 4555

Other Branches

Al Twar Campus: 10th street, Al Qusais 1, Al Qusais, Dubai. 

7. Al Ittihad Private School Dubai

Here is one of the most recognizable private schools in Dubai with an American syllabus. Al Ittihad Private School Dubai is a suitable option for a premium educational level for your little ones. 

Through recruiting highly qualified staff from all over the world, Al Ittihad Private School in Dubai ensures a high level of education, as well as exposure to different cultures for your children. 

They offer the students an American curriculum, aligned with California Common Core Standards to have a unique learning experience. 

Location

It’s located on 7th Street, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, Dubai.

Close To

• Al Quoz 1: 5 minutes away
• Business Bay: 10 minutes away
• Umm Suqeim 1: 10 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Clinic
• Green areas
• Outdoor seating areas
• Gym 
• Indoor sports facility
• Cafeteria 
• Library
• Art rooms
• Science laboratory
• Recreational areas

Highlights 

• It opened in 1998 and follows the guidelines of the Ministry of Education of the UAE.
• They’re accredited by the Council of International Schools and NEAS, making it among the best accredited American schools in Dubai.

Admission

You can simply open their official website and enrol your kid online. 

KHDA Rating

Good

Contact Details

• +971 (0)4 394 5111
• info@ipsjumeira.com 

8. Al Mawakeb School Al Gharhoud

In case you’re seeking a unique and efficient learning journey for your child, then here’s the one. This is undoubtedly a reputable American school that you won’t regret choosing for different reasons.

It’s managed by AMSI, who have been managing educational entities for more than 30 years. Besides, the school offers a multilingual learning environment where students learn English, French, and Arabic; however, the main language of instruction is English. 

It’s among the best American schools in Dubai during the Higher stage. It offers the students an Advanced Placement Program, which includes college-level courses with AP exams in different fields, so the learners are prepared for university, and those who pass the test get college credit. 

Location

It’s located off Al Marrakech Street, Garhoud, Dubai

Close To 

• Umm Ramool: 5 minutes away
• Dubai Festival City: 10 minutes away
• Al Jaddaf: 15 minutes away

Fees

Facilities

• Clinics
• Cafeteria 
• Multi purpose halls
• Vast play areas
• Art workshops
• Library

Highlights

• Al Mawakeb Schools has two other branches in Al Barsha and Al Khawaneej; this allows you to choose the nearest one to your home. 

• Al Mawakeb School Al Garhoud is the oldest one, as it was founded in 1979, while the other branches are considered among the new American schools in Dubai.

Admission 

To register for your kid, you can fill the online form on the website. 

KHDA Rating

Good

Contact Details

• +971 (0)4 285 1415
• amg@almawakeb.sch.ae 

Other Branches 

• Al Barsha: Off 329th Road, AL Barsha 2, Al Barsha, Dubai
• Al Khawaneej: On 26 A, off Al Khawaneej street, Al Khawaneej, Dubai  

9. Greenwood International School

Are you newly moving to Dubai and looking for a notable American school for your child? If yes, then Greenwood International School is a suitable one. 

It’s founded in 2006 with an aim to prepare well-educated students with excellent and strong personalities to be future leaders; that’s why GIS focuses on the academic side as well as extracurricular activities.

Besides, it organises many leisure and educational activities, field trips, and overseas trips so the students can socialise. They are also among the best affordable American schools in Dubai, making it a flawless choice. 

Location

It’s located on 32nd street, Muhaisnah 1, Muhaisnah, Dubai. 

Close To

• Mirdif: 10 minutes away
• Al Rashidiya: 5 minutes away
• Al Qusais 3: 10 minutes away 

Fees

Facilities 

• Science labs 
• Art rooms
• Clinic
• Indoor playroom
• Canteen
• Libraries
• Multi-purpose hall
• Outdoor leisure area

Admission 

You can start the admission process online through their portal. 

KHDA Rating

Good

Contact Details

• +971 (0)4 288 8000
• info@greenwood.sch.ae 

10. Dunecrest American School 

Dunecrest American School is a distinguished one on the list of the best American schools in the emirate. It’s under the supervision of Esol Education which specialises in establishing and managing high-quality international schools.

They are managing different schools worldwide, so you can expect nothing but a premium educational level for your kid. Besides, the school has a super-experienced teaching staff in different fields, using up-to-date learning methods.

Also, they have a Creative Curriculum, encouraging students to show their talents in mathematics, literacy, social studies, and science; it’s an engaging and interesting way to help discover your kid’s talents and skills. 

Location

It’s located off Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Road, Legenda, Dubai.

Close To

• Al Barari: 5 minutes away
• Nad Al Sheba: 15 minutes away
• Arabian Ranches: 15 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Science labs
• Spaces for graphic art
• Outdoor learning spots
• Gym
• Multi-purpose hall
• Shaded playground for different stages
• Areas for performing arts and music 
• Technology labs 
• Indoor sports facilities
• Cafeteria 

Highlights

It’s accredited by the Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSACESS) and the Council of International Schools (CIS).

Admission 

You should first submit their online admission form through the website.

KHDA Rating

Good 

Contact Information

+971 (0)4 508 7444

11. Clarion School

Are you working in the Business Bay area and want a nearby school for your little one for a quick pickup? If yes, then Clarion School matches your request.

It’s located in the heart of Dubai, making numerous communities a few minutes away from it. When it comes to education, you can look no further, as their American educational program is smartly crafted by experts to make the students excel. 

The school includes all the educational stages from Kindergarten to high school. Besides, they follow engaging, challenging, and interdisciplinary methods to avoid any boredom for the learners. 

Location

It’s located on 13 D Street, off Al Asayel Street, Al Quoz 1, Al Quoz, Dubai.

Close To

• Al Safa: 5 minutes away
• Al Quoz 2: 10 minutes away
• Downtown Dubai: 10 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Shaded play area
• Green spaces
• Spacious classroom 
• Activity spaces
• Library
• Football pitch 

Highlights 

• It’s among the American schools in Dubai, offering an IB Diploma for the students so they can meet the top universities standards with no doubts. 

• SwissCanonica Gourmet Food is the one catering in the school which is a super advantage as it serves healthy and premium food; this is because nutrition is an important factor for the concentration and mental health of your child. 

Admission 

You can effortlessly apply online through their official site.

KHDA Rating

Good 

Contact Information

• +971 (0)4 407 3000 
• admissions@clarionschool.com 

12. Al Khaleej International School

Gems is a well-known name in the educational field in the emirate; that’s why Al Khaleej International School is a highly recommended one when it comes to the schools offering the American syllabus in Dubai. 

The school has a great staff across different fields to guarantee the students the best and most inclusive educational level. They also have a great awareness of the most effective learning methods so they can deal with the children’s different personalities. 

Among the many perks of enrolling your kid here is that the school prepares them well to join the top universities worldwide. This is by discovering their potential and helping them find out their true passion. 

Location

It’s located on Nouakchott Street, Al Warqa 4, Al Warqa, Dubai.

Close To

• Mirdif: 10 minutes away
• Al Rashidiya: 10 minutes away
• International City: 15 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Clinic
• Science labs
• Robotics lab
• Food tech lab 
• Outdoor football pitch
• Basketball court
• Indoor sports hall
• Arts and music rooms
• Swimming pool
• Multi-purpose hall

Highlights 

Many of Gems Al Khaleej’s graduates joined The University of Cambridge, Harvard University, The University of Chicago, and much more. 

Admission 

The initial step to apply for your child is to fill their online application. 

KHDA Rating

Good 

Contact Information

+971 (0)4 217 3900

13. North American International School

The leadership of a school says a lot about your child’s experience. North American International School leaders have proven themselves among the top American schools in Dubai. 

Their KHDA rating has improved over the last years which reflects their aim to provide the best educational and learning experiences for their students. Besides, they provide career consultation and guidance for senior students, enabling them to easily pave their way to the next step.

The school includes all the stages, so whether your child is enrolling for the first time or just changing their school, this one is surely a good one.

Location

It’s located on Al Khawaneej Street, Al Mizhar 1, Al Mizhar, Dubai.

Close To

• Mirdif: 5 minutes away
• Muhaisnah: 10 minutes away
• Al Qusais 3: 10 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Sports fields
• Autodrium
• Library
• Science labs
• Internet access
• Art rooms 
• Music room
• Spacious playground
• Indoor activity room

Admission 

For enrollment, you have to fill the online registration form through the school’s portal.

KHDA Rating

Good 

Contact Information

+971 (0)4 288 4844

14. American Academy for Girls

In case you’re looking for a girls-only American school, American Academy for Girls is surely a good option. It has a good reputation thanks to the high level of education it provides by its experienced teachers.

They aim to empower every girl across all roles as they believe that girls’ power and capabilities are unlimited; this is through modern and smartly tailored learning programs. 

It provides the students a unique opportunity to travel to different countries starting from the fourth grade to gain great exposure to various cultures. 

Location

It’s located off 11 A Street, Al Mizhar 1, Al Mizhar, Dubai. 

Close To

• Mirdif: 5 minutes away
• Muhaisnah 1: 5 minutes away
• Al Rashidiya: 10 minutes away

Fees

Facilities 

• Art studios 
• Science laboratories
• Wi-Fi
• Cafeteria
• Pottery room
• Shaded outdoors playground  
• Libraries 
• Music rooms
• Shaded outdoors pool

Highlights 

• This school was established in 2005 and was known as Al Mizhar American Academy, but its name changed recently. 

• The girls are encouraged to learn about varying cultural traditions to become more understanding, tolerant, and accepting of others. In addition, the school welcomes students with learning difficulties.

Admission 

The first step to enrol your girl is to fill the online registration form through their portal. 

KHDA Rating

Good 

Contact Information

• +971 (0)4 2887250
• admissions@americanacademy.ae 

The hassle of searching and asking your friends about the best luxurious or cheap American schools in Dubai is over with this detailed guide. You have all the information so you can easily make your decision.

You can also check the best British Schools in Dubai on Property Finder in case you’re still making up your mind.