Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira and Dubai Modern Education School are both in Dubai, about 20 km apart. Both schools offer American programmes, and Dubai Modern Education School also offers UAE. Published annual fees are AED 23,184 - 47,633 at Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira and AED 13,487 - 24,763 at Dubai Modern Education School, which puts Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira roughly 85% higher. Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira takes pupils from 3 to 18, and Dubai Modern Education School from 4 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 2,434 and 2,004 pupils. Typical class sizes are 17 at Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira and 6 at Dubai Modern Education School.
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Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Dubai Modern Education School
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Fees / year
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Fees / year AED 23,184 - 47,633 | Fees / year AED 13,487 - 24,763 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 4 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type — | Type — |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum American Curriculum | Curriculum American Curriculum, UAE Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 2,434 | Pupils 2,004 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 17 | Typical class size 6 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened — | Opened — |
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Bus service
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Bus service — | Bus service — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Al Ittihad Private School – Jumeira is located on Al Wasl Road at 7th Street in the Jumeirah area of Dubai (Al Safa 1). The address is Al Wasl Rd 7th St, near Medcare Hospital. It is accessible from Al Wasl Road and adjacent major routes such as Sheikh Zayed Road. | Location Dubai Modern Education School is located on Algeria Street in Al-Mizhar 1, Dubai, UAE. The campus sits in the Al Mizhar district among other private schools and is accessible via major Dubai routes. The school provides a local address and contact details for inquiries and campus visits. |
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Stages
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Stages The school offers education from Pre-K to Grade 12. It follows an American standards-based curriculum (California standards and MOE guidelines) and prepares students for post-secondary education. | Stages DMES runs two curricula: the US School with the US California State Curriculum (Kindergarten to Grade 12) and the MOE School with the UAE Ministry of Education Curriculum (Grades 1–12). The school is structured as a K-12 institution across both streams, and NEASC accreditation is pursued for the US stream. |
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School type
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School type The school is co-educational and operates as a day school. | School type DMES is a private, co-educational day school. There is no publicly listed boarding facility. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix Emirati students form the largest group. The school reports 2,432 Emirati students out of 2,711 total; international students number 279, representing about 10% of the student population. The largest nationality group remains Emirati. | Pupil nationality mix DMES serves a culturally diverse student body with representation from over 40 nationalities; Emirati students make up a significant portion of the student body, with international students representing the remainder; the school describes its population as academically and culturally diverse. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support IPS-Jumeira is an inclusive school that offers a learning support program, enabling the admission of a managed number of students who require learning support at each grade level. | Additional learning support DMES identifies itself as inclusive and uses differentiated instruction, project-based learning, and inclusive education. There are dedicated inclusion resources to support students with diverse learning needs. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is indicated; the curriculum is American-based. | Country affiliation Affiliations: United States (via the US School and US California Curriculum) and United Arab Emirates (via MOE Curriculum). |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation Religious instruction is integrated through Islamic studies taught in Arabic as part of the Arabic-language curriculum; there is no external religious affiliation stated. | Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is stated. |
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School day structure
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School day structure The school week runs Sunday to Thursday. The usual hours are 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on Sunday–Thursday; Friday and Saturday are non-instructional. | School day structure The regular school day typically runs from about 7:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with a shorter day around 1:00 p.m. on Fridays; exact times may vary by grade and program. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details Public bus connections serve the school area with lines 12, 15, 93, F20, and 98E stopping nearby. Public transport is operated by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The school lists a transport facility as available. | Bus service details DMES operates 18 buses on multiple routes across Dubai. Bus registration is handled by the school's transport team; safety rules include seat belts, and buses run on scheduled times with no waiting beyond schedule. The Transportation Supervisor is the contact for inquiries. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fee - A non-refundable application fee of AED 500 is charged to process a new student application; this amount covers the assessment exam and is not deductible from tuition except where the school decides not to proceed with registration. Registration and re‑registration fees - New-student registration: payment of 10% of the annual tuition is required to secure a place; this amount is deductible from the annual tuition. - Existing student re-registration: payment of 5% of the annual tuition is required and is deductible from the annual tuition. Annual tuition fees (Tuition + books where shown) — academic year (annual total) and suggested per-term split (33% / 33% / 34%) - Pre-KG (Kindergarten 1): AED 23,184 — Term 1: AED 7,651 ; Term 2: AED 7,651 ; Term 3: AED 7,882. - KG1 (Kindergarten 2): AED 23,345 — Term 1: AED 7,704 ; Term 2: AED 7,704 ; Term 3: AED 7,937. - KG2 (Kindergarten 3): AED 23,345 — Term 1: AED 7,704 ; Term 2: AED 7,704 ; Term 3: AED 7,937. - Grade 1: AED 31,129 — Term 1: AED 10,273 ; Term 2: AED 10,273 ; Term 3: AED 10,583. - Grade 2: AED 31,129 — Term 1: AED 10,273 ; Term 2: AED 10,273 ; Term 3: AED 10,583. - Grade 3: AED 31,129 — Term 1: AED 10,273 ; Term 2: AED 10,273 ; Term 3: AED 10,583. - Grade 4: AED 36,495 — Term 1: AED 12,043 ; Term 2: AED 12,043 ; Term 3: AED 12,409. - Grade 5: AED 36,495 — Term 1: AED 12,043 ; Term 2: AED 12,043 ; Term 3: AED 12,409. - Grade 6: AED 36,495 — Term 1: AED 12,043 ; Term 2: AED 12,043 ; Term 3: AED 12,409. - Grade 7: AED 38,646 — Term 1: AED 12,753 ; Term 2: AED 12,753 ; Term 3: AED 13,140. - Grade 8: AED 38,646 — Term 1: AED 12,753 ; Term 2: AED 12,753 ; Term 3: AED 13,140. - Grade 9: AED 38,646 — Term 1: AED 12,753 ; Term 2: AED 12,753 ; Term 3: AED 13,140. - Grade 10: AED 47,633 — Term 1: AED 15,719 ; Term 2: AED 15,719 ; Term 3: AED 16,195. - Grade 11: AED 47,633 — Term 1: AED 15,719 ; Term 2: AED 15,719 ; Term 3: AED 16,195. - Grade 12: AED 47,633 — Term 1: AED 15,719 ; Term 2: AED 15,719 ; Term 3: AED 16,195. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is payable in three instalments each academic year: 33% in August (first instalment), 33% on 1 December (second instalment), and 34% on 1 February (third instalment). The first instalment is payable in August and includes book fees and optional fees after deduction of registration/re-registration fees where applicable. - The second and third instalments must be provided as two post‑dated cheques dated 1 December and 1 February; these cheques are to be submitted with the first instalment in August. - When an employer or third party will pay fees directly, an "Undertaking from Employer to Pay Tuition Fees" form must be completed with the Registration & Accounts Department. VAT, discounts and additional charges - A sibling discount is applied from the second child onward. - A 5% VAT is applied on all fees except tuition fees, books and transportation fees. Other costs and services - School transportation is provided through Dubai Taxi Company; specific bus routes and charges are managed through that service. Transport fees are listed separately from tuition. - School uniform supply is handled by ZAKS (uniform provider). Uniform costs are charged separately. - Book and some optional fees may be charged in addition to tuition where indicated; book fees are refundable only if the student did not attend and before the beginning of the academic year. Refund and withdrawal terms - Registration and re-registration fees are non-refundable if a student chooses not to return, except in specific cases such as family relocation to another Emirates or country. - If tuition is paid in full and the parent withdraws before the start of the academic year, the paid tuition is refundable after deduction of the registration or re-registration fee. - Withdrawal deductions once the academic year has started (calculated on a ten‑month basis): - Registered two weeks or less: one month's fees deducted. - Registered between two weeks and one month: two months' fees deducted. - Registered more than one month: three months' fees deducted. Boarding - Boarding is not offered; the school is day‑only (no boarding facility). Fee payment options (explicitly stated items) - The school requires two post‑dated cheques for the second and third instalments; those cheques must accompany the first instalment payment. The school provides an employer undertaking form for third‑party fee payment. No other specific payment methods (credit card or bank transfer) are specified on the school's fees and payment policy page. Notes - The annual figures above correspond to the school's published fees fact sheet for the current 2025–26 academic year; the instalment amounts shown are the standard 33% / 33% / 34% split applied to the annual figures. | Fee details Application / Registration fees - New-student application / registration fee: AED 500 (one-time at registration). Tuition fees (annual, by year group) - KG1 (Foundation Stage / Age 4): AED 13,487. - KG2 (Foundation Stage / Age 5): AED 13,487. - Grade 1: AED 17,537. - Grade 2: AED 17,665. - Grade 3: AED 17,789. - Grade 4: AED 19,177. - Grade 5: AED 19,428. - Grade 6: AED 19,617. - Grade 7: AED 22,032. - Grade 8: AED 22,284. - Grade 9: AED 22,410. - Grade 10: AED 24,610. - Grade 11: AED 24,763. - Grade 12: AED 24,911. Per-term breakdown (term instalments by year group) - The school issues tuition invoices by term. The three-term billing pattern used by Dubai schools (first-term larger, then two smaller equal instalments) is commonly used on KHDA fact sheets and school fee schedules; the per-term figures below apply a 40% / 30% / 30% split to the annual tuition amounts and are presented as whole-dirham instalments: - KG1 / KG2 (Annual AED 13,487): Term 1 AED 5,395; Term 2 AED 4,046; Term 3 AED 4,046. - Grade 1 (Annual AED 17,537): Term 1 AED 7,015; Term 2 AED 5,261; Term 3 AED 5,261. - Grade 2 (Annual AED 17,665): Term 1 AED 7,066; Term 2 AED 5,299; Term 3 AED 5,300. - Grade 3 (Annual AED 17,789): Term 1 AED 7,116; Term 2 AED 5,337; Term 3 AED 5,336. - Grade 4 (Annual AED 19,177): Term 1 AED 7,671; Term 2 AED 5,753; Term 3 AED 5,753. - Grade 5 (Annual AED 19,428): Term 1 AED 7,771; Term 2 AED 5,828; Term 3 AED 5,829. - Grade 6 (Annual AED 19,617): Term 1 AED 7,847; Term 2 AED 5,885; Term 3 AED 5,885. - Grade 7 (Annual AED 22,032): Term 1 AED 8,813; Term 2 AED 6,610; Term 3 AED 6,609. - Grade 8 (Annual AED 22,284): Term 1 AED 8,914; Term 2 AED 6,685; Term 3 AED 6,685. - Grade 9 (Annual AED 22,410): Term 1 AED 8,964; Term 2 AED 6,723; Term 3 AED 6,723. - Grade 10 (Annual AED 24,610): Term 1 AED 9,844; Term 2 AED 7,383; Term 3 AED 7,383. - Grade 11 (Annual AED 24,763): Term 1 AED 9,905; Term 2 AED 7,429; Term 3 AED 7,429. - Grade 12 (Annual AED 24,911): Term 1 AED 9,964; Term 2 AED 7,473; Term 3 AED 7,474. Billing schedule and payment terms - All fees must be paid by their due dates to secure a student's place; the school provides bank-transfer details and accepts card payments by appointment at the accounts office. Fees are shown inclusive of book charges where stated by the school. - Bank account for transfers (school account details published for payments): Account number 10582369; IBAN AE870500000000010582369; Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank; Account name Dubai Modern Education School. When transferring, parents must reference the family ID or share the deposit slip as instructed by finance. - Accepted payment methods: credit / debit card (Visa/Mastercard), cash at the office, bank cheque, and bank transfer. Boarding fees - Dubai Modern Education School does not provide a boarding (residential) facility; there are no boarding fees. Other mandatory and optional costs - Books: the published tuition figures note that book charges are included where specified. - Uniform: parents are responsible for school uniform costs; uniform purchase is an additional cost. - Transport: school transport is offered for an additional fee; route and area-based transport charges apply and are billed separately. - Meals / canteen: lunch service for younger pupils may have charges; older pupils may buy meals in the canteen — meal costs are additional where provided. - External examination and activity fees: costs for external exams, internationally recognised tests (e.g., SAT, IELTS, AP where applicable), extra-curricular trips, and some school trips are charged separately. Refunds and withdrawal - Registration / application fees are generally treated as non-refundable by schools; a registration deposit may be deducted from tuition when a place is accepted. Refunds for withdrawals during the academic year are processed according to the applicable Ministry/KHDA rules and the school's parent‑school contract; typical practice in Dubai applies deductions based on the period of attendance and non-refundable items (books, uniforms, some mandatory fees). Specific refund calculations and any notice periods are handled by the school's accounts office. Notes and important points about billing - The annual tuition figures above are the school's published yearly charges per grade. The per-term instalments presented above are calculated using a 40% / 30% / 30% split and shown as whole-dirham instalments for convenience; the school's published fee schedule and billing documents set the official term amounts and due dates. Where to pay and whom to contact in the school for fee queries - Finance / Accounts contacts are published by the school; payments by bank transfer must include the family ID as a reference and deposit slips should be sent to the school finance email when applicable. Accepted methods are card, cash, cheque and bank transfer. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement Uniforms are mandatory for all students. The uniform is supplied by Zak's Uniforms, Oasis Mall, Level 1, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE. | Uniform requirement Uniforms are split by level: KG girls wear a yellow shirt with a dark blue skirt; KG boys wear a yellow shirt with dark blue trousers; Grades 1–12 girls wear a navy blue skirt with a sky-blue long-sleeve shirt, and boys wear a sky-blue shirt with navy trousers. The sport uniform is a white sweater with light-green pants for both genders. Girls must tie back long hair and may wear only a black scarf; makeup, flashy jewelry, nail polish, and sandals or slippers are not permitted. |
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Food options
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Food options The school operates a canteen offering healthy options. In Grades 4 to 12, students may bring snacks and lunch from home or purchase from the canteen's rich healthy options. The day includes a snack and a lunch/prayer break, and there are two recess periods. | Food options The school has a canteen on site. The canteen provides a comprehensive food services program to meet dining and nutritional needs at affordable prices, with healthy menu options and accommodations for dietary requirements. |
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House system
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House system — | House system — |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Trustees. IPS-Jumeira is part of the Al Ittihad Private School group and is one of five branches within that group. | Governance and ownership DMES is privately owned and operates as a co-educational school. It comprises two on-site schools: the US School and the MOE School, offering US California State Curriculum (Kindergarten to Grade 12) and UAE MOE Curriculum (Grades 1 to 12), respectively. Hamda Lootah is listed as the founder of DMES. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The school follows a K–12 American-based curriculum aligned with the California Common Core State Standards (CA-CCSS) for Mathematics, English, Humanities, and Art; it also uses the California Computer Science Standards and ISTE for Computer Science and the NGSS for Science. Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, and Moral Education are aligned with UAE Ministry of Education standards for both Arab and Non-Arab students. The curriculum adopts a mastery-based, inquiry-driven approach and emphasizes UAE national identity and Arabic language across all phases. Educational Tracks start in Pre-KG and continue through Grade 12, with the American High School Diploma path and an option to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses from Grade 10. The program includes preparation for international assessments aligned with the UAE National Agenda, including MAP, PISA, TIMSS, IBT, and PIRLS, along with university readiness supports such as IELTS, TOEFL, and SAT. IPS-Jumeirah has a KHDA rating of Good and accreditations from CIS and NEASC. | Curriculum details Dubai Modern Education School (DMES) runs two school programs: the US School using the California State Curriculum (Kindergarten to Grade 12) and the MOE School using the UAE Ministry of Education Curriculum (Grades 1 to 12). The DMES MOE curriculum is aligned with UAE MOE standards across core and elective subjects, including Islamic Education, Arabic Language, English Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Design, Technology, Creative Design and Innovation, Health Sciences, Visual Arts, Musical Arts, and Arabic for non-native speakers. The US program aligns with California Common Core Standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics, and incorporates NGSS for Science, within the California CCSS framework. DMES describes its curriculum as coherent, flexible and enriched, designed to develop learners' capacities as successful, confident, effective contributors and responsible citizens. Admissions include MAP testing for Grades 3–12 to assess English, Math and Science, with KG to Grade 4 undergoing informal assessments. The campus is located in Al Mizhar 1, Dubai. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results — | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning Al Ittihad Private School – Jumeira places social and emotional learning (SEL) within a holistic wellbeing framework. The school emphasizes physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing as part of its educational approach and promotes balance through participation in extracurricular activities. Dedicated counselors provide a safe space for students to express thoughts and emotions and to develop coping strategies, including stress management, mindfulness, and emotional resilience. Student voice is encouraged, with opportunities for feedback and peer support to foster a sense of belonging in the learning community. The KHDA rating for IPS-Jumeira is Good, reflecting strong overall quality including wellbeing provisions. | Social & emotional learning Dubai Modern Education School frames wellbeing as a core objective of its education. The school states a commitment to supporting and improving the wellbeing, happiness and quality of life of students, and its homeroom program focuses on morals and values. DMES provides a formal counseling program with dedicated Guidance & Career Counseling Rooms to address academic, career, and personal/social development. A Wellbeing & Child Protection Officer oversees safeguarding and student wellbeing, ensuring alignment with school policies. The Inclusion Lead and inclusive practices support diverse learners within a combined US and MOE curriculum framework. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) IPS-Jumeira is described as an inclusive school with a learning support program that admits a managed number of students requiring learning support at each grade level. The inclusion framework provides Personalized Instruction for Students of Determination. Assistive technologies are provided to support engagement, comprehension, and participation. Regular progress assessments are conducted to monitor student learning and inform instructional adjustments. Inclusion practices include differentiated assignments and flexible accommodations in the classroom. Specific categories of SEN are not publicly enumerated; the program centers on students of determination within an inclusive approach. | Special educational needs (SEN) DMES presents inclusive education and does not position itself as a specialist SEN institution. An Inclusion Lead (Mirna Fakhi) coordinates SEN provisions across US & MOE curricula. There are dedicated 'Rooms for Students of Determination' in all school buildings to support SEN learners. An Academic Counselor provides academic and career guidance within the US Curriculum. Inclusion features are integrated within both US and MOE curricula. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language English is the language of instruction for most subjects, while Arabic language, Islamic studies, and social studies are taught in Arabic. IPS-Jumeira describes itself as following an American curriculum and as an inclusive school. Publicly available materials do not specify an EAL-specific program. Where language support is available, it is framed within inclusive education and learning support rather than a separate EAL track. Therefore, EAL-specific provision is not publicly disclosed. | English as an additional language DMES provides English instruction within both its US and MOE curricula. The US Curriculum has a dedicated Head of English & Foreign Languages (Haya Sabri), indicating formal language leadership. The MOE Curriculum standards include English Language (2019), showing English is a formally governed subject. The school does not publicly disclose a dedicated EAL program. Language support appears to be delivered through the regular English and language departments, and leadership structures exist to oversee language education. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is integral to IPS-Jumeira's approach, with a focus on physical, emotional, and mental health as part of a balanced education. Dedicated counselors provide a safe space for students to express thoughts and emotions, while teaching coping strategies. Support includes stress management and mindfulness practices to develop emotional resilience. Physical activity and sport are promoted as part of wellbeing through strong PE facilities and programs. Community-building and peer support, including social events and collaboration, foster belonging and emotional wellbeing. Long-term wellbeing is supported through the development of emotional intelligence and self-awareness. | Mental wellbeing DMES lists student wellbeing as a priority and aims to support wellbeing, happiness, and quality of life. There are dedicated Guidance & Career Counseling Rooms to implement a comprehensive counseling program addressing academic, career, and personal/social development. The school has a Wellbeing & Child Protection Officer (Alia Almheiri) to oversee safeguarding and student welfare. The Child Protection Policy provides a framework for safeguarding and includes a disclosure and reporting process. An integrated approach links mental wellbeing with safeguarding through spaces, roles, and policies across the school. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding IPS-Jumeira publishes a formal Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy (January 2025, Version 1.0) as part of its essential documents and policies. The policy states that the school aims to protect and safeguard every child and cooperates with the Community Development Authority-CPC and Dubai Police when needed. All staff, mainly teachers, are required to report abuse or neglect to their Section Principal, who will contact the school's Child Protection Officer. IPS-Jumeira maintains a designated Child Protection Officer responsible for safeguarding and welfare across all ages. The policy lists safeguarding-related procedures and policies such as Bullying, Behavior, and Health & Safety, and requires staff training; the school collaborates with the CDA CPC and Dubai Police to address child protection in schools and education. | Safeguarding Dubai Modern Education School has adopted a Child Protection Policy to safeguard students. The policy provides a Disclosure and Reporting Flow Chart, and there is a designated Child Protection Officer. There is a Wellbeing & Child Protection Officer responsible for safeguarding and student welfare. The school maintains safeguarding policies and procedures accessible to families and staff. Policies & Procedures are part of the school's overarching governance framework. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The school has a modern campus featuring a dedicated school building, a library, science laboratories, sports facilities, and a school mosque. The facilities are designed to support academic learning and holistic development. Learning spaces include classrooms, laboratories, the library, outdoor play areas, and common areas that foster interaction and active learning. The campus supports a wide range of extracurricular and daily activities through its integrated facilities. | Facilities overview Dubai Modern Education School (DMES) operates two curricula on a single campus in Al Mizhar 1, offering both US and UAE MOE programs. The campus provides separate gym halls and expansive outdoor spaces for physical education, plus a 1000-seat multi-purpose hall for assemblies and events. Academic facilities include dedicated science laboratories for biology, chemistry and physics, along with library/media centers and ICT laboratories to support digital learning. Creative facilities include an art room, innovation spaces, a LEGO lab and robotics labs to support project-based learning and technology activities. Additional amenities include a canteen, a school clinic, outdoor gardens and play areas, with parking available outside the campus. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Sports facilities support physical development and promote a healthy, active lifestyle. They include well-maintained indoor and outdoor spaces designed for a variety of sports, physical activities, fitness, teamwork, and recreation. | Sports facilities Separate gym halls and spacious outdoor spaces support PE and sports activities. A 1000-seat multi-purpose hall is used for assemblies and other non-curricular events, complemented by on-site courts and outdoor spaces for team sports. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Academic facilities include a safe, functional, and engaging school building with modern classrooms and essential facilities to support academic and extracurricular activities. The school library provides a quiet, welcoming space for reading, research, and learning, equipped with a range of books, digital resources, and study areas. Science laboratories provide a safe and stimulating environment for hands-on learning and experimentation, equipped with essential tools and materials to develop scientific skills and inquiry-based learning. | Academic facilities Science laboratories for biology, chemistry and physics are provided, along with dedicated library/media centers and ICT laboratories to support classroom learning and digital projects. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The Extra-Curricular Activities program offers a diverse range of opportunities beyond the classroom, including sports, arts, technology, and community service. Activities foster teamwork, creativity, and personal growth, with instructors and coaches who guide students. The program includes Model United Nations (MUN), national and international trips, competitions, and other after-school activities that extend learning beyond the classroom walls. | Extra curricular facilities Creative and maker-type facilities include an art room, LEGO Lab and robotics labs, plus innovation spaces and gardens that support hands-on learning and enrichment outside the classroom. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Al Ittihad Private School–Jumeira opened its doors in 1998 as one of the five IPS branches. It is part of Al Arabia for Educational Development and follows a standards-based US curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 12, incorporating California standards and UAE MOE guidelines. The campus serves over 2,800 students and maintains an inclusive learning-support program to admit a managed number of students requiring additional help at each grade level. IPS-Jumeira is one of five Al Ittihad Private School branches in the UAE. | History Dubai Modern Education School (DMES) was established in 1996 as a private, co-educational institution in Dubai. The campus houses two schools on one site: the US School and the MOE School, delivering the US California State Curriculum and the UAE Ministry of Education Curriculum, from Kindergarten to Grade 12. The founder is Hamda Lootah, and the school emphasizes a family‑oriented, inclusive learning environment with a mission to empower learners to contribute to the global community through innovation, exploration, and citizenship. In 2019, DMES began pursuing NEASC candidacy and has continued its accreditation journey toward international standards. DMES has operated for more than twenty-five years, reflecting its long‑standing commitment to quality education and community service. |
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Community
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Community IPS-Jumeira's community blends Emirati heritage, Arabic language, and Islamic values with an American curriculum to develop global citizens. Family involvement is strong; the school maintains an active Parents Council, and its leadership includes an IPS-J graduate. Students participate in a wide range of events and activities, including celebrations of national and international days, arts, music, sports, and drama, along with extensive extracurriculars such as Model United Nations. Field trips and experiences such as visits to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre are part of the student learning experience. | Community DMES describes itself as a family-oriented, co-educational community serving a diverse student body through US and MOE curricula. The school emphasizes wellbeing and a strong partnership with families, reinforced by an active Parent Council that coordinates family involvement and school celebrations. It serves students from more than 40 nationalities, reflecting Dubai's multicultural setting. The campus maintains an active gallery of events, trips, workshops, and celebrations that illustrate the community's engagement. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The school maintains a Parents Council that coordinates family involvement in school life. The council's leadership includes IPS-J graduate members. An educational morning for parents titled 'Our children's behavior is our responsibility' was organized with the participation of the Parents Council and volunteer mothers. The council coordinates graduation-related activities and other school events, with active parent volunteering. Open days for after-school activities invite parents to explore clubs and activities with the school. | Parent teacher association Dubai Modern Education School runs a Parent Council, a volunteer body that acts as the bridge between the parent community and DMES. The Council was formed to facilitate effective communication between parents and DMES. Parents are welcomed to become members and to participate in school-wide celebrations and events. The Council meets regularly to coordinate various special events and to exchange ideas throughout the year. The Parent Council serves as a channel for parent feedback and involvement in school life, and it helps grow the DMES community by mobilizing volunteers for events and initiatives. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The school teaches a K–12 American-based curriculum aligned with international standards. It uses the California Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, English, Humanities, and Art; California Computer Science Standards and ISTE for Computer Science; and NGSS for Science. Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, and Moral Education follow the Ministry of Education standards for Arab and non-Arab students. The curriculum emphasizes mastery-based and inquiry-based learning to develop critical thinking and problem-solving, and integrates Emirati heritage and the Arabic language across all grades. It prepares students for international assessments such as MAP, PISA, TIMSS, IBT, and PIRLS, and supports university readiness with IELTS, TOEFL, and SAT preparation. Educational tracks include the American High School Diploma or Advanced Placement (AP) options starting in Grade 10; AP courses offer potential university credit. | Academic & intellectual Dubai Modern Education School offers two curricula: the US California State Curriculum and the UAE Ministry of Education Curriculum. The school emphasizes differentiated instruction, project-based learning, and STEM education to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It provides a broad range of elective courses and maintains student clubs to extend learning beyond the core subjects, including more than 30 elective courses. These academic and co-curricular opportunities are designed to support intellectual growth and prepare students for global citizenship. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative The Elementary Curriculum covers Grades 01–05 and includes Art, Information Technology, Music, and Physical Education. Art and music are integrated across the curriculum to foster creativity and expression. The school features an Innovation Center that encourages creative problem-solving and hands-on exploration, and a Smart Learning Program with a 1:1 device rollout to enhance digital collaboration. These elements support creative development and project-based learning across the grades. | Arts & creative Arts and creative activities are part of DMES's learning framework within its co-curricular program. The school emphasizes creativity through project-based learning and provides elective courses and clubs that address the arts. Students have opportunities to engage in creative pursuits as part of their broader development. Creativity is integrated with other disciplines through cross-curricular projects. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language The school integrates national identity, Emirati culture, ethical values, and the Arabic language across the learning journey. Arabic language, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, and Moral Education follow MOE standards for both Arab and non-Arab students, ensuring appropriate alignment with UAE guidelines. Students develop proficiency in their native language while engaging with global perspectives and cultural understanding. Emirati heritage is embedded in pedagogy and practice, reinforcing cultural responsibility and global awareness. | Cultural & language DMES operates within two curricula, offering multilingual courses and language support as part of its program. The school emphasizes global citizenship and cultural awareness, with co-curricular activities that promote cross-cultural understanding. Co-curricular activities include language and cultural awareness components. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies The Extra-Curricular Activities program offers a diverse range of opportunities across sports, arts, technology, and community service. After-school activities and clubs foster teamwork, creativity, and personal growth, with instructors and coaches guiding students across activities on stage, field, or in clubs. The program emphasizes competitions and experiential learning, including national and international experiences such as Model United Nations (MUN). | Social & hobbies Student clubs and the co-curricular program provide social and hobby-based groups for students. An Activity Coordinator manages the activities program, ensuring structured clubs and events throughout the year. The program supports peer collaboration, creative expression, and informal interest-based groups. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Bridges of Giving, a collaboration with the UAE Red Crescent, teaches compassion and social responsibility through hands-on humanitarian activity. Multicultural Day promotes acceptance of diverse races, religions, and ideas, fostering tolerance and understanding. The school also emphasizes service and global citizenship through community projects and experiential learning beyond the classroom, including guided trips and exchanges. | Community & service DMES emphasizes community service and outreach as part of its mission. The founder's message references community service as a guiding principle, and the school's policies describe co-curricular opportunities that include volunteering and service projects. Co-curricular offerings include volunteering and service opportunities aligned with social responsibility. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Career Guidance provides comprehensive assessments, personalized roadmaps, and a focus on holistic development to prepare students for future education and careers. The school highlights university acceptances with diverse pathways and global opportunities, reinforcing the idea of multiple viable routes to success. Students receive support for standardized tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, and SAT, and the Smart Learning Program supports collaboration and digital literacy across grades 3–12. | Leadership & professional Leadership development is integrated through student government and leadership programs within the co-curricular program. An Activity Coordinator role indicates structured guidance for student activities and leadership opportunities. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Student Support offers counseling and advisory services to address academic, emotional, and personal needs, ensuring well-being is central to learning. The school emphasizes a safe and inclusive environment where students form positive relationships and feel supported academically and socially. Extracurriculars, athletics, and wellness activities provide opportunities for physical health, mindfulness, and balanced development. | Lifestyle & wellbeing DMES places a priority on student wellbeing, with a dedicated Wellbeing & Child Protection Officer to support welfare and safeguarding. The school expresses a commitment to wellbeing and the happiness and quality of life of students. The campus provides facilities for sports and physical education to support an active lifestyle. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira follows a K–12 American-based curriculum aligned with the California Common Core State Standards for Mathematics, English, Humanities, and Art; California Computer Science Standards and ISTE for Computer Science; and the New Generation Science Standards for Science. For Arabic, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, and Moral Education, the curriculum aligns with the Ministry of Education standards for both Arab and Non-Arab students. The curriculum integrates English for core subjects and includes Arabic language instruction as part of MoE-aligned programs, integrating Emirati heritage and language throughout the curriculum. The school prepares students for key international assessments aligned with the UAE National Agenda Parameters (NAP), including MAP, PISA, TIMSS, IBT, and PIRLS, and guides university readiness with IELTS, TOEFL (English proficiency), and SAT. | Language provision The school provides English language instruction and foreign language studies. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Submit the online registration form via the school's online portal. Seats are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. After submission, admissions will contact you to schedule an interview for Kindergarten or an entrance exam for Grades 1–12. 2. The admissions team will call you to arrange the interview or entrance assessment. 3. Submit the required documents: a recent photograph; Emirates ID; copies of the student's passport; birth certificate; vaccination record; transfer certificates as applicable; for transfers from outside the UAE, an attested transfer certificate; for Grades 10–12, an equivalency certificate. 4. Complete on-site formalities: visit the school to finish remaining steps, pay the seat reservation fee within one week of the interview result, and sign the parent-school contract. Enrollment is completed after these steps. | Admissions Step 1: Inquiry and campus visit. DMES is a private, co-educational school with selective admissions. Parents arrange a visit and tour with the School Executive Principal, the MOE Head of School, and the US Head of School to learn about the program and campus. The visit helps families determine fit before advancing to testing. Step 2: Entrance tests and placement. For Grades 3–12, placement involves an online MAP test in English, Math, and Science, scheduled by the school. For KG to Grade 4, informal assessments may include reading, writing, arithmetic and non-verbal reasoning. These assessments inform placement within DMES programs. Step 3: Registration and deposit. After testing, the student's place is guaranteed upon signing a contract and paying a deposit. The process formalizes admission and secures enrollment ahead of the academic year. Families should follow up with the Admissions & Finance team if they have questions. Step 4: Transfer from another school. Students transferring from another school must provide the most recent school reports outlining academic levels and behavior. This information helps DMES determine whether they can meet the student's educational and pastoral needs. The transfer evaluation is part of the admissions process. Step 5: Application steps. Registration can be submitted online or in person to the registration office. Eligible candidates will be called for an interview, and selected candidates must submit all required documents along with the fee payment. Step 6: Admissions contacts. The Admissions & Finance Office handles queries. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Scholarships are available to support students pursuing national and international scholarship opportunities. The school provides guidance, workshops, and resources to assist with scholarship applications. | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist If there is no opening in a grade, applicants are placed on a waiting list. | Waitlist — |
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