Al Fanar School vs Jumeirah English Speaking School – Arabian Ranches

	A Al Fanar School Dubai, United Arab Emirates	J Jumeirah English Speaking School – Arabian Ranches Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 65,000 - 78,334	Fees / year AED 54,129 - 104,544
Age range	Age range 1 - 11 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)	Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (DP), BTEC Qualification
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 1976
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Situated in Nad Al Sheba, Nad Al Sheba 4, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The school is described as being located in Nad Al Sheba, Dubai. The contact address lists Nad Al Sheba 4, Dubai, UAE.	Location Two campuses in Dubai: JESS Jumeirah and JESS Arabian Ranches. The Arabian Ranches campus is the largest site, housing Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form. Bus routes connect JESS Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches with routes including Al Wasl Road, Springs, Meadows, Lakes, Meydan Heights and Meydan South, operated by STS Group.
Stages	Stages FS1–Year 6	Stages Ages 3 to 11: Early Years and Primary; Ages 11 to 18: Secondary and Sixth Form.
School type	School type primary school	School type Co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix Staff and students from over 70 countries.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Inclusive admissions with personalized support plans for students of determination.	Additional learning support Inclusion and wellbeing supports in place; The Oasis Learning Support department coordinates in-class support, personalised learning programmes and, where needed, external specialist services; Counselling is provided by a dedicated team.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation England (National Curriculum for England)	Country affiliation —
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Islamic	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details JESS offers bus transport to secondary students only. Bus routes include Route 1 JESS Jumeirah, Route 2 Al Wasl Road, Route 3 Springs, Meadows, Lakes, Route 4 Meydan Heights, Meydan South. STS Group is the transport provider; buses feature CCTV, GPS tracking and other safety measures. For more information contact Shawn David (STS) at STS@jess.sch.ae or 056-3693149.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application fee: AED 500 per application (assessment included). The application fee is refundable if you choose not to proceed after the tour or if the school is unable to offer a place. - Registration (new students): a non‑refundable registration deposit equal to 10% of the annual tuition fee; this amount is deductible from the first term's tuition and must be paid within seven working days of accepting an offer. Re‑registration (returning students): a non‑refundable re‑registration deposit of 5% of the annual tuition fee (or up to AED 500, whichever is higher); this is also deductible from the first term's tuition. Tuition fees by year group (Academic Year 2026–2027) — annual and indicative per‑term split - Nursery (Early Childhood Centre / ECC) – Annual: AED 65,000. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 21,666.67. - FS1 – Annual: AED 67,086. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 22,362.00. - FS2 – Annual: AED 67,086. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 22,362.00. - Year 1 – Annual: AED 68,938. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 22,979.33. - Year 2 – Annual: AED 70,798. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 23,599.33. - Year 3 – Annual: AED 72,668. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 24,222.67. - Year 4 – Annual: AED 74,547. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 24,849.00. - Year 5 – Annual: AED 76,436. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 25,478.67. - Year 6 – Annual: AED 78,334. If split into three equal term instalments, indicative per term: AED 26,111.33. Note on per‑term figures: the school publishes the annual tuition for each year group and issues invoices against the academic year. The per‑term figures above are equal one‑third calculations of the annual tuition provided here and are shown for planning purposes; the school's billing schedule and any official term instalment amounts should be confirmed at enrolment. Billing schedule and payment terms - Academic calendar and term structure follow the standard KHDA three‑term year; invoices are organised around term dates (typically a Term 1 starting in August/September, Term 2 in January and Term 3 in April). Deposits (registration / re‑registration) are deducted from the first term's invoice. Non‑payment may result in withholding of reports and denial of re‑enrolment. - Payment timings: the registration deposit must be paid within seven working days of accepting an offer. The school treats the registration/re‑registration payment as non‑refundable except where KHDA or school policy allows otherwise (for example, in approved relocation cases). Boarding fees - Not applicable. The school is a primary school serving ages 3–11 (FS1 to Year 6) and does not offer boarding. Other costs and optional services - Uniforms and required supplies: budget ranges are published for required education supplies and uniforms (example ranges include Uniform: up to around AED 1,000; stationery and books amounts vary by year). Optional and variable costs include: transport, extracurricular activities, school trips, canteen and class photographs. These optional/ancillary service costs are charged in addition to tuition and vary by service and level. Typical ranges published for these items include: Transport AED 6,000–10,000; Extracurricular AED 500–20,000; School trips AED 200–10,000; Canteen AED 8,000–11,000; Class photograph AED 0–300; Special needs support ranges depending on required provision. - Discounts and concessions: available discount schemes include sibling discounts (percentage reductions on additional siblings), Emirati student concession (example: 10%), early payment discount (example: 2.5%), and staff/school management concessions (up to full fee waiver where applicable). One‑off "welcoming" discounts or similar promotional reductions may appear for specific intakes. Specific discount eligibility, values, and application rules are set by the school. Refunds and withdrawals - Application fee: refundable in defined circumstances (for example, if you choose not to proceed after a tour or if no place is offered). Registration and re‑registration deposits are generally non‑refundable, except where the school's published policy or KHDA regulations permit refund (for example, verified relocation outside the UAE before the start of the school year). Tuition fee refunds during the academic year are processed in accordance with KHDA rules and the school's published admissions and refund procedures. Written requests for refunds must be submitted to the Admissions Office and will be reviewed by senior leadership as per policy. Non‑refund conditions and time limits apply (for example, no refunds for registration/re‑registration requests made after the academic year has started). Fee payment methods - Online payment by credit or debit card is accepted for application and initial payments; the registration deposit is payable within the stated timeframe. For other payment methods or a specific payment schedule, contact the admissions/finance office at the school for the options that will be provided at offer and invoicing. Summary points for parents - Annual tuition is published per year group for the 2026–2027 academic year; enrolment requires an application fee (AED 500) and a registration or re‑registration deposit (10% for new students, 5% for returning students), both of which are deducted from the first term invoice under the school's policy. Optional services such as transport, canteen, extracurricular activities and special‑needs support are charged in addition to tuition within published ranges. Refunds and late/non‑payment consequences follow the school's admissions policy and KHDA guidelines.	Fee details Application fee - A non-refundable application fee of AED 500 is charged at the time of application. Tuition fees by year group (per term and per year) - Foundation 1 (FS1): AED 18,043 per term / AED 54,129 per year. - Primary (Foundation 2 / FS2 through Year 6): AED 21,699 per term / AED 65,097 per year. - Secondary (Years 7–11): AED 30,641 per term / AED 91,923 per year. - Sixth Form (Years 12–13): AED 34,848 per term / AED 104,544 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are published as per-term amounts alongside the annual total and are presented on a three-term academic-year basis. Exact invoice dates, payment deadlines and any registration or deposit timings are issued with the formal offer and invoice. - When a Personal Debenture place is offered the school deposit must be paid within five days of the offer and the Personal Debenture amount is payable in full prior to the child starting. If less than the required one term's notice of withdrawal is given, the Personal Debenture will not be refunded until the end of the following term. Debentures / deposits - A Personal Debenture of AED 20,000 is required when a personal-debenture place is offered; it is payable within the timeframe specified in the offer, remains with the child while enrolled and is refunded when the child leaves subject to the school's debenture rules. Corporate debentures exist under separate rules. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. The school operates as a day school and does not charge boarding fees. Other costs and optional charges - Uniform and uniform kit costs: charged separately when applicable; parents should budget for standard uniform purchases. - Co-curricular and extracurricular clubs: membership or activity fees may apply and are billed separately. - Educational visits and local/international trips: charges vary by trip and are billed separately. - Devices / laptop charges: where a device is required, costs or device-lease arrangements may apply. - Canteen / meal costs, photographs and optional school services: charged as incurred or via separate invoices. - School transport (bus) service: transport is provided (noting routes and availability vary and a separate transport charge applies for users of the service); the bus service is operated to specified year groups and routes. Refund information - The application fee is non-refundable. Registration and re-registration deposit treatment and any tuition refunds after the start of the academic year follow the applicable KHDA Schools Registration and Refund Policy; registration/re-registration deposits are deductible from tuition up to the allowable amounts and refunds after the academic year begins are processed in line with the KHDA refund schedule. Personal Debentures are refunded when the child leaves in accordance with the school's debenture rules (subject to notice provisions). Fee payment options (methods and details) - Bank transfer: bank name, account number, IBAN and SWIFT details are supplied for bank payments; a copy of payment confirmation should be sent to accounts@jess.sch.ae and the account reference, invoice number and child's name must be included on payment documentation. - Cheque: cheques should be made payable as instructed (payable to Jumeirah English Speaking School Br) with the required reference details written on the back; payment procedures for cheque submission are specified by the school accounts team. - Other accepted methods: schools typically accept electronic bank transfer and cheque; any additional accepted methods (for example card payments) are confirmed by the school accounts team in payment instructions. Practical notes for planning - Expect tuition to be invoiced on the three-term structure shown above; additional optional services are invoiced separately. Plan for the Personal Debenture (AED 20,000) and any registration/re-registration deposits that may be required when an offer is made.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options —	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership The school is not-for-profit. It is governed by governors.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Grounded in the National Curriculum for England (NCfE) and aligned with KHDA and UAE Ministry of Education requirements, the programme runs from FS1 to Year 6. Early Years (FS1–Year 1) are play-rich and inquiry-led, with the Head–Heart–Hands model nurturing thinking through language and exploration, emotional wellbeing through caring relationships and rhythm, and creativity through movement, making, and purposeful play. The Primary (Years 2–6) curriculum blends NCfE with a relational, culturally rooted pedagogy, and learning is structured into 3–5 week inquiry blocks that connect subjects through real-world contexts. Assessment is human, holistic, and forward-thinking, using observation, dialogue and rich documentation aligned with EYFS and NCfE. The curriculum emphasizes learning beyond exams, with real-world inquiry, collaborative projects, and a focus on wellbeing and ethical action. It is inclusive and adaptable for diverse learners, including students of determination, EAL, and gifted and talented learners.	Curriculum details The secondary curriculum is the National Curriculum for England. The Arabian Ranches campus houses the three schools—primary, secondary and sixth form—on one site. GCSE examinations are taken at the end of Year 11 as part of a two-year study programme. In Sixth Form, students choose between the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme or the BTEC Plus programme. The curriculum is complemented by a broad range of extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, sport, music and performing arts programmes. Individual learning is a focus within this framework.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results GCSE results show a high proportion of top grades with A/Grade 9-8 ranging from 40.6% (2019) to 41% (2024), A/A/Grade 9-7 between 64% and 70.9%, and A-C/Grade 9-4 between 98% and 100%. IB results show average points around 37-39 across years. BTEC results indicate attainment described as DD*D on historical summaries.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression JESS graduates are admitted to universities around the world.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented The curriculum includes gifted and talented learners within its inclusive education approach. Learning is adapted to meet diverse profiles, including those who are gifted and talented.	Gifted and talented A Gifted and Talented programme exists for primary and secondary students, with enrichment opportunities, targeted extension activities and competitions; teachers identify gifted or talented learners and tailor the learning and beyond-the-classroom experiences to stretch their abilities.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school places wellbeing at the center of learning and uses the Head, Heart, Hands model to develop thinking, feeling, and doing in every child. Emotional intelligence is fostered through relational practice, trauma-informed pedagogy, and developmentally attuned adult support. Circle time, gratitude rituals, peer conversations, and collaborative problem‑solving are daily practices that support emotional regulation, empathy, and resilience. Children are seen, heard, and valued in a safe, nurturing environment that prioritises connection and belonging. Emotional wellbeing is described as the soil from which deep learning grows, underpinning all academic and social development.	Social & emotional learning The school prioritizes social-emotional learning through Student Wellbeing and Counselling. The Counselling Team seeks to understand student mental health needs and offers short-term therapeutic support and throughcare to enhance personal growth and resilience. JESS Life emphasises resilience, reflectivity and empathy, with learning and enrichment environments designed to help students flourish and lead change.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Inclusion Policy defines SEND as a need that requires adaptation so the learner can access the environment equitably. The school uses a graduated approach (Universal, Targeted, Specialist) with IEPs and, when needed, outside professionals to support learning. Admission is not conditional upon diagnosis, and the school welcomes students with special educational needs. Learning Support Assistants facilitate inclusive participation and staff can engage external specialists (e.g., speech and language therapists, occupational therapists) as required. Provision is designed to ensure access for all within the common learning environment, with rhythm, differentiation, and ongoing collaboration with families.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school has an Inclusion policy and a Provision for Students of Determination Policy. It provides Occupational Therapy Services and Speech and Language Services, and runs a Gifted and Talented Programme for primary and secondary students. Identification and communication processes enable collaborative support among staff, parents and specialists for students requiring curriculum adaptation or personalised assistance.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The curriculum explicitly recognises and supports learners for whom English is an additional language (EAL). English, Mathematics, and Science are taught within a framework that adapts to diverse language needs, ensuring equity and access for all learners. The National Curriculum for England is blended with a relational, culturally rooted pedagogy to support language development in an inclusive setting. Adaptations for EAL are embedded in the curriculum to help students access content across subjects. The school emphasises inclusive practices that accommodate EAL learners within the Head, Heart, Hands approach.	English as an additional language If English is not the applicant's first language, or the applicant is multilingual, an English as an Additional Language Policy exists to support language development and access to the curriculum.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is a core component of student development, with safeguarding activities and curricula designed to support emotional health. The safeguarding framework includes a Mental Health Policy and ongoing staff training in wellbeing and safety. The approach is grounded in trauma-informed practices and co‑regulation to support emotional regulation, peer connection, and secure attachments. The Head, Heart, Hands model fosters emotional literacy and resilience as foundations for learning. The environment is structured to be safe, predictable, and nurturing to promote mental wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing The school is dedicated to nurturing mental health and wellbeing across the community. The Student Wellbeing page affirms this commitment, and the Counselling service provides short-term therapeutic support and throughcare to build resilience.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a collective responsibility across the school, with an environment that is safe and secure and where students are encouraged to speak to trusted adults. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child guides practice, and policies align with UAE safeguarding standards. A designated safeguarding leads team oversees procedures, training, case management, and annual reporting, with CPOMS used for records. Clear reporting, confidentiality, and information-sharing protocols are in place, along with crisis planning, anti-bullying, online safety, and missing child procedures. The safeguarding framework prioritises strong home–school partnerships and ongoing professional development for staff.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a priority; inspection reports on JESS highlight safeguarding and wellbeing as a key focus and the school maintains safeguarding practices to protect students and promote welfare.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school is a British-curriculum primary school located in Nad Al Sheba 4, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The classrooms are warm, open spaces with flexible layouts and sensory-aware design, including outdoor classrooms. Learning environments are sensory-rich and designed to support imagination, focus, and wellbeing. Nature-based learning is central, with daily outdoor learning and gardening. The Head–Heart–Hands model shapes daily life and school rhythms, blending academic inquiry with UAE heritage, Arabic language, and Islamic education.	Facilities overview Two sites host JESS Arabian Ranches and JESS Dubai Jumeirah. Three schools operate within JESS across two sites. JESS educates students aged 3 to 18 across Early Years, Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form. The environments include academic, sport, performing arts and enrichment. JESS is a not-for-profit school and has been consistently rated Outstanding by the Dubai School Inspection Bureau. Contacts are available for Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches at +971 4 3619019.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities Sport is a core component of life at JESS Life, with programmes designed to engage students in physical education and wider enrichment. Sport is highlighted as one of the key life areas on the JESS Life platform.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Classrooms are curated spaces that support imagination, focus, and wellbeing. The curriculum blends the National Curriculum for England with UAE cultural heritage, Arabic language, and Islamic education, and is organized for Early Years (FS1–Year 1) and Primary (Years 2–6). Learning occurs through 3–5 week inquiry blocks in a hands-on, inquiry-based approach. The learning environments are sensory-rich and designed around the twelve senses to foster engagement and self-regulation. Assessment is human, holistic, and forward-thinking, using observation, dialogue, and documentation aligned with EYFS and NCfE frameworks.	Academic facilities JESS provides education for ages 3 to 18 across Early Years and Primary and Secondary and Sixth Form. The school emphasizes Individual Learning and innovative programmes to support student development.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Outdoor and nature-based learning; Arts, movement and making; Cultural identity and language; Supporting a low-tech, high-presence approach in the early years.	Extra curricular facilities Co-Curricular offerings include sport, performing arts and enrichment activities; the House System and Student Leadership provide opportunities, and the Al Ajyaal Programme is part of the school community.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Al Fanar School is Al Fanar by Zaya, a pioneering primary school in Dubai. It was founded by Nadia Zaal, who serves as founder and CEO. The school offers a British curriculum for FS1–Year 6 and uses a Head, Heart, Hands model. It is located in Nad Al Sheba 4, Dubai, UAE. The curriculum blends Emirati heritage, Arabic language, and Islamic traditions with global learning to prepare world-ready learners.	History JESS began in 1975 in a small apartment near the Deira Clock Tower with 17 children and two teachers. A plot of land gifted by HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum enabled JESS to move to a villa in Jumeirah within a year. JESS Jumeirah evolved into a prominent primary school in Dubai. In 2005, demand for school places led to the opening of the Arabian Ranches campus, which houses both a primary and a secondary school. Together, the two campuses form two sites with three schools under the JESS umbrella.
Community	Community The Daily Experience describes daily rhythm and the Head, Heart, Hands flow, with calm mornings, deep learning blocks, outdoor movement, shared meals, and reflective endings. Learning environments feel like homes with flexible spaces, sensory-aware design, and outdoor classrooms. Relationships and community are prioritized, with educators as Soulful Guides and family partnerships valued, and emotional safety foundations of practice. Student voice and leadership are encouraged, with even youngest children helping shape the day through co-created agreements, Wonder Books, and assemblies.	Community JESS describes its community as diverse and close-knit, with a packed calendar of events and activities that support charitable initiatives and cultural celebrations to help everyone belong and make a difference. JESS Parents Groups (JPGs) are a large part of the community and operate at both campuses, bringing students, parents and staff together for events throughout the year. Being involved in JPGs provides opportunities to be a role model for children, stay connected to the school, contribute skills, and gain a closer understanding of how the school operates. Alumni and after-school providers are also integral parts of the JESS community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association JESS Parent Groups (JPGs) are a major part of the JESS community and operate at both JESS Jumeirah and JESS Arabian Ranches campuses, bringing students, parents and staff together at a variety of events throughout the year. Being involved in JPGs provides opportunities to be a role model for your children, stay actively connected to the school, contribute your skills and see the school in operation. The JESS Parent Partnership Council (PPC) ensures parents are central to decision-making and school improvement; the PPC is composed of the Headteacher and elected parent representatives and meets six times a year. The PPC works with JPGs to channel parent voices into strategic planning and community initiatives. A Leading Parent Partnership Award process verified that the school, PPC and JPG demonstrated exemplary use of the awards process to reflect on and refine good practice.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school teaches critical thinking and deep problem solving. The school uses a globally aligned curriculum and child-led inquiry to prepare learners to be world-ready—confident, open-minded, and connected to a larger purpose. The school emphasises a rigorous, relational, and joyful approach where every child feels seen, known, and inspired.	Academic & intellectual The school offers the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award for Secondary students (ages 14–25). The MaD Award supports Primary students to develop life skills outside the classroom. Academic ECAs include languages, public speaking, and debate on current affairs. Trips and visits form part of the Extracurricular Programme to broaden learning beyond the classroom.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The school fosters creativity through arts, movement, and making. From clay and handwork to music and expressive movement, children develop skill, confidence, and voice. Creativity flows through our school.	Arts & creative Dance includes lunchtime and after-school clubs with Ballet, Contemporary and Street/Commercial. Drama and Performing Arts provide a range of co-curricular opportunities, including drama productions and London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) examinations in Acting and Public Speaking. Music offers individual and group lessons on orchestral instruments, with ensembles across the school and more than 100 concerts each year. Students gain production and technical skills through lighting, sound, projection mapping, stage management and props design.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The school honours the heritage of the UAE. Arabic and Islamic Education are woven through song, story, and cultural ritual, helping children build pride in their identity while embracing diversity.	Cultural & language Academic ECAs include language learning, with opportunities to pursue new languages. Public speaking and debate on current affairs are also part of Academic ECAs. Trips and visits provide cross-cultural learning experiences, enriching students' awareness of different cultures. Language development and cultural exploration are supported through the ECA programme.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Relationships and community are prioritised; educators form strong, respectful bonds with each child. Family partnerships are valued, and emotional safety is foundational to all we do. Even our youngest children help shape the day, participating in assemblies and co-creating agreements to lead.	Social & hobbies The Extracurricular Programme includes Sports ECAs, Performing Arts ECAs and Creative ECAs. Creative ECAs include Origami, Salt Dough, Minecraft, coding and robotics. Academic ECAs include social games such as Board Games, Chess and Card Sharks, and well-being-focused ECAs include Yoga and mindfulness activities like mindful colouring and Flourish club. There are opportunities to perform in concerts and events such as JESStravaganza and annual showcases.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award includes service to the community. The MaD Award emphasizes making a difference and care, with community and global service. The Extracurricular Programme also features service-oriented opportunities through KHDA's Philanthropic Schools Award. Trips and experiences are used to engage with local and international communities.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school promotes Student Voice and Leadership. Even our youngest children help shape the day and are empowered to participate and lead. Leadership is developed through co-creating agreements, sharing ideas in Wonder Books, and assemblies.	Leadership & professional Head Students are selected in Year 6 and Year 12. Leadership opportunities exist across school life, and student leadership is encouraged at all levels. The House System and formal student leadership roles provide pathways for developing leadership and collaboration. The school's approach fosters leadership in a range of contexts beyond academics.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The daily rhythm follows a Head, Heart, Hands flow: calm mornings, deep learning blocks, outdoor movement, shared meals, and reflective endings. Each day begins and ends with intention, and routines balance focused inquiry, joyful play, and restorative pauses to help children regulate, engage, and thrive. Classrooms feel like homes with outdoor classrooms and natural design, inviting curiosity and deep engagement. Relationships and community are central, with educators as Soulful Guides and family partnerships valued to support wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is embedded across school life, with a focus on safety, health, achievement, inclusion and personal growth. The Wellbeing programme supports mental and physical health through various initiatives. The Extracurricular Programme includes wellbeing ECAs such as mindful colouring, Flourish club and Yoga. Sport and Physical Education emphasize wellness and fitness as integral to education, and trips and community involvement contribute to students' wellbeing.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English is a core subject within the NCfE-based curriculum. Arabic and Islamic Education are taught in alignment with MOE guidelines. The curriculum includes Arabic language and related subjects, and learning support is provided for students for whom English is an additional language (EAL).	Language provision English is the language of instruction. Arabic is taught as a subject; Emirati Nationals are required to take Arabic A. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available for non-native English speakers.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Enquiry: Your journey begins by getting in touch with the admissions team. You may contact by phone, email, or in person. An enquiry number is issued for reference. 2. Application: To move forward, families pay an AED 500 non-refundable application fee and fill an application form. The fee is refundable if you choose not to proceed after the tour or if we are unable to offer a place, and it can be transferred to the next academic year if needed. 3. Tour: School tours allow you to experience Al Fanar in action, understand the approach, and ask questions. Tours are an important step in moving forward with your admission. 4. Stay & Play: When spaces become available, children are invited to a Stay & Play session, a relaxed play-based experience with no formal tests. 5. Offer: If a place becomes available, an official offer is issued. To secure the place, a deposit is required within a set timeframe. At this stage, transition planning begins. 6. Admissions Update: Admissions for 2025–2026 are full. Admissions for 2026–2027 are also full, with limited availability only in Years 5 and 6. We are not able to accept inquiries at this time. 7. Registration and Re-Registration: New Students pay a non-refundable registration fee of 10% of the annual fees to confirm their place, deducted from the first term's tuition fees, and due within 7 working days. Returning Students pay a non-refundable re-registration fee of 5% of the annual fees to secure their place for the following academic year, deducted from the first term's fees. Failure to pay may result in the forfeiture of the place. 8. Withdrawals: Relocations and withdrawals; the application and registration/re-registration fee are non-refundable if families relocate or choose not to return. Refunds of deposits may be possible before the new academic year begins, subject to policy. KHDA guidelines apply for tuition refunds during the academic year. 9. Outstanding Fees: Non-payment of fees may lead to withholding of academic reports and denial of re-enrollment.	Admissions Step 1. Complete the Online Application Form for the child's current year group. JESS Dubai operates waiting lists in most year groups, and FS1 and Year 7 are the main entry points into the school; other year groups may have occasional vacancies only when a current student leaves. Apply for the year group your child is currently in to ensure the correct waiting list placement. Step 2. You will receive an email with details on how to pay the Application Fee (AED 500 – non-refundable). After payment is received, the child is placed on the waiting list. The school notes that demand is high and waiting lists are in operation, particularly for 2025–26. Step 3. Open Entry is a route for candidates who meet specific criteria. If eligible, apply to openentry@jess.sch.ae; applicants meeting criteria may be invited to assessments, performances and interviews. Step 4. If a place is offered, follow the offer procedure outlined in the offer letter andAdmissions Policy. Registration and admission require the Transfer Certificate (TC); attendance cannot proceed without the TC.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting lists are capped at 20 students per grade level, with periodic-status updates provided to parents. Class sizes are capped at 15 students to ensure personalised learning. Priority for Waitlist Placement is: 1) Siblings of current students; 2) Children of staff members; 3) Emirati students. Parents must confirm their intention to remain on the waitlist within 7 days.	Waitlist JESS Dubai uses waiting lists for most year groups. The school is currently full for 2025-26 with over-subscribed waiting lists. Main entry points into JESS Dubai are FS1 and Year 7, and occasional seats may become available in other year groups only if a current student leaves; overall movement depends on departures. After completing the online application and paying the AED 500 fee, applicants are placed on the waiting list for the relevant year group.
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