Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira vs Dubai National School Al Barsha

	A Al Ittihad Private School Jumeira Dubai, United Arab Emirates	D Dubai National School Al Barsha Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 23,184 - 47,633	Fees / year AED 24,172 - 39,665
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,434	Pupils 2,336
Typical class size	Typical class size 17	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	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 National School is located on First Al Khail Street in Al Barsha 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits in the Al Barsha area and is accessible via major routes such as Al Khail Road and Sheikh Zayed Road. The surrounding area is residential with amenities nearby, including the Mall of the Emirates corridor.
Stages	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 DNS Al Barsha serves students from Pre-K (PK) through Grade 12, i.e., PK-12. The school reports an enrollment of about 2,500 students across 52 nationalities with a full American curriculum. The English language is the medium of instruction across phases.
School type	School type The school is co-educational and operates as a day school.	School type The school is an independent private day school. It serves both boys and girls, with classes segregated by gender from Grade 4 onward; there is no boarding facility advertised for any year group.
Pupil nationality mix	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 DNS serves about 2,500 students from 52 nationalities. The school's population is diverse, with Emirati students making up a significant portion of the intake; Emirati backgrounds are reported as the majority in some external profiles of the school.
Additional learning support	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 Inclusion is a formal part of DNS, with inclusive education support services that comply with KHDA policies. The school provides provisions for students with special educational needs and disabilities as part of its care and support framework, including wellbeing and safeguarding provisions.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is indicated; the curriculum is American-based.	Country affiliation The school follows the American curriculum based on Massachusetts State Standards, aligning with an American/US educational framework.
Religious affiliation	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 DNS does not have a formal religious affiliation; Islamic Studies is included as part of the Arabic language program within the MOE-mandated curriculum.
School day structure	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 school day starts with gates opening at 7:30 am and the first period beginning at 8:00 am. The schedule includes seven classes on Mondays and Tuesdays, six on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and four on Fridays. End times vary by level: Pre-K, KG1 & KG2 finish at 1:00 pm; Grades 1-3 finish at 2:10 pm; Grades 4-12 finish at 2:30 pm; Friday timings are shortened, with earlier dismissals.
Bus service details	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 DNS Al Barsha operates its own transport service with a fleet that serves many Dubai areas. Morning bus pickup is typically at 7:45 am; afternoon drop-offs vary by student level (PreK-G12 1:00 pm; PreK-KG2 1:00 pm; G1-12 2:30 pm). Bus routes include Al Barsha 1-3, Tecom & The Greens, Dubai Marina, JLT, JVC, Ibn Battuta & Discovery Gardens, Umm Suqeim & Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, Arjan, Arjan/Remraam, and other areas, with fees published for 2025-2026 (e.g., 7,000 AED for most routes, 4,200 AED one-way). Enrollment is coordinated through the Transport Supervisor after registration.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	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 Annual tuition — fees by year group - Pre‑KG: AED 24,172 per year. - KG1: AED 24,172 per year. - KG2: AED 24,172 per year. - Grade 1: AED 26,420 per year. - Grade 2: AED 26,420 per year. - Grade 3: AED 26,420 per year. - Grade 4: AED 27,936 per year. - Grade 5: AED 28,650 per year. - Grade 6: AED 28,650 per year. - Grade 7: AED 31,929 per year. - Grade 8: AED 31,929 per year. - Grade 9: AED 33,038 per year. - Grade 10: AED 35,119 per year. - Grade 11: AED 39,665 per year. - Grade 12: AED 39,665 per year. Application / registration fees - Application fees and registration deposits follow the UAE/KHDA framework used by private schools: an application charge may be collected (KHDA guidance caps the pre‑offer application fee) and schools commonly collect a registration/re‑registration deposit (often expressed as a percentage of annual tuition). The KHDA framework limits an application fee before an offer to a modest fixed amount and allows a registration deposit (commonly up to 10% in practice). Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are billed termly; Dubai private‑school frameworks require that annual tuition be collectable in three instalments (term 1, term 2 and term 3) or, alternatively, in 10 equal monthly instalments. The KHDA guidance sets the typical maximum instalment split at up to 40% (first term), 30% (second term) and 30% (third term). The school's published academic calendar shows term start dates that align with standard termly billing points. - School fees do not include the costs listed below (these are charged separately). Parents should expect the tuition figure to be the annual tuition amount and to be billed according to the school's published payment plan. Boarding fees - Dubai National School — Al Barsha operates as a day school; there are no boarding fees. Other costs and mandatory extras - Books, resources, uniforms, transport, lunch and external activities are not included in the tuition figures and are charged separately. - School transport (example ranges published by the school): typical round‑trip bus fees shown by route are in the AED 7,000–7,500 range; one‑way service for many routes is shown around AED 4,200–4,500. Specific route fees vary by pick‑up area. - Other common additional items (charged separately) include textbooks, examination/assessment charges, school ID cards, diaries, technology/resource charges, special activities or trips, and optional after‑school offerings. The tuition page explicitly excludes these items from the published tuition figures. Refunds and withdrawal charges - Refunds and cancellations are administered under the UAE/KHDA/MOE fee frameworks that apply to private schools in Dubai. These frameworks specify how tuition refunds are calculated when a student withdraws during the term (for example, standard guidance sets the amount schools may retain according to how long the student attended: withdrawal within two weeks → charge one month's tuition; between two weeks and one month → charge two months' tuition; beyond one month → charge up to a term's tuition, with monthly values calculated by dividing the annual tuition by 10). Book and uniform charges are typically non‑refundable unless unused. Registration/re‑registration deposits are typically non‑refundable except in specific circumstances provided by regulation. Fee payment options - Private schools in Dubai commonly accept multiple payment methods: online payment portals, bank transfer (wire/telegraphic transfer), debit/credit card, cash and cheques. Schools also commonly accept post‑dated cheques (PDCs) or set up monthly instalment plans where permitted under KHDA rules. Expect the school to offer at least bank transfer and card/online payment facilities. Summary notes for parents (concise) - The figures above are the published annual tuition amounts by grade. - Tuition excludes books, uniforms, transport, lunch and many external activities; transport fees are charged separately and vary by route (round trip examples AED 7,000–7,500). - Fees are billed termly under the standard Dubai practice (three instalments or 10 monthly instalments); the KHDA framework caps the typical term split at 40%/30%/30% where schools use three instalments. Refunds and withdrawal charges follow the UAE/MOE/KHDA refund rules described above.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	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 —
Food options	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 —
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	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 Dubai National School – Al Barsha is privately owned by H.E. Mr. Marwan Al Ghurair and is governed by a Board of Trustees.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	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 National School Al Barsha uses an American curriculum based on Massachusetts State Standards, with English as the medium of instruction and alignment to CCSS and NGSS; AP courses are available at the high school level. The curriculum progresses sequentially from Kindergarten through Grade 12 and is aligned with UAE MOE standards, while integrating Arabic language, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, and Culture. Middle School follows the Massachusetts Frameworks, emphasizing project-based learning with STREAM integration and cross-curricular links to Islamic education, Arabic and social studies. High School uses a Massachusetts-aligned credit system; 25 credits are required to graduate; the program includes core and elective courses, with AP courses implemented to meet UAE MOE equivalency. The program emphasizes standards-aligned resources, ongoing assessment, and the development of global citizenship and Islamic values within the Emirati context.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	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 National School Al Barsha integrates Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) as part of its inclusive education framework. The SEL curriculum covers five competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. It is delivered through day-to-day teaching–learning practices, sports activities, guidance and counseling services, and resource room psycho-educational sessions. The school conducts socio-emotional learning activities and events, including World Mental Health Day activities, stress and anxiety management sessions, and psychological wellbeing presentations for learners and staff. SEL is a core component of the school's approach to supporting student wellbeing within its wellbeing provisions.
Special educational needs (SEN)	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) Dubai National School Al Barsha describes its approach as inclusive education for learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those who are Able, Gifted and Talented (AGT). An Inclusive Education Action Team (IEAT) coordinates inclusion provisions, learning support interventions, and accommodations across the learning community. Learners with SEND participate in general education groups with differentiated instruction and targeted support designed to remove barriers to learning. The school states its inclusive education provisions comply with KHDA policies (KHDA Inclusive Education Policy Framework, Inclusion Handbook) and related MOE and UNCRPD frameworks. It does not describe itself as a specialist SEN institution or indicate a dedicated SEN unit.
English as an additional language	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 English is the medium of instruction across phases at DNS Al Barsha, but there is no publicly disclosed EAL program on the site. Kindergarten includes Early Literacy in both languages—Arabic and English—suggesting bilingual literacy activities in the early years, but no explicit EAL staff or classroom program is described. No explicit EAL staff, groupings, or dedicated EAL provision are publicly listed in the available materials. Consequently, information on a formal EAL program is not disclosed in the public content.
Mental wellbeing	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 DNS Al Barsha offers mental wellbeing support as part of its Health, Happiness, and Wellbeing framework. The Healthy School Program (HSP) guides physical activity, healthy lifestyles, and wellbeing education, with focal areas including increasing activity, providing teacher and learner resources, and integrating health education. Counselors and inclusion specialists are involved to support socio-emotional learning and anxiety management. The wellbeing provisions include counseling, stress and anxiety management sessions, and psychological wellbeing presentations for learners and staff, alongside activities such as World Mental Health Day. These programs reflect a structured approach to student mental health within the school's wellbeing strategy.
Safeguarding	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 National School Al Barsha maintains a Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy. The policy notes that safeguarding arrangements are inspected by KHDA under judgments for protection, care, guidance and support of students, and leadership and management. All staff and volunteers are required to read the policy and confirm through emails, school WhatsApp groups, child protection registers, and ISS staff accounts before starting a new academic year. The policy is part of the school's safeguarding portfolio and is accessible through the ISS system and Google Drive. KHDA policy alignment and related international safeguarding frameworks underpin these provisions.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	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 National School Al Barsha provides a broad range of facilities to support PK-12 learning. Each section has its own labs, ICT rooms, and spacious playgrounds. Classrooms are large and equipped with multimedia projectors and speakers to support e-learning. The campus has extensive sports facilities, including three multipurpose gymnasiums, a full-size soccer field, outdoor basketball courts, and three swimming pools with changing rooms. In addition, there are three libraries, five art rooms, and specialized learning spaces such as Home Economics labs for girls and an Electronics lab for boys.
Sports facilities	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 The school offers three multipurpose gymnasiums, a full-size soccer field, outdoor basketball courts, and three swimming pools (for girls, boys, and toddlers) with changing rooms.
Academic facilities	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 Seven computer labs provide networked terminals with Internet access for ICT and other subjects. The middle and high sections have four science laboratories, with a general science lab available for elementary students. Three libraries serve PK-12 students with audio/visual facilities, networked computers, and a broad print collection. All classrooms are spacious and equipped with multimedia projectors and speakers to support e-learning.
Extra curricular facilities	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 Five art rooms support visual arts across grades PK-12. Home Economics labs (two for girls: cooking and sewing) and an Electronics lab (for boys) enable practical learning. The campus includes a dedicated Lecture Hall for meetings, events, and staff development, and there are separated prayer rooms for girls and boys. Two cafeterias, seating over 1,000, provide daily meals and snacks for students and staff.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	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 National School- Al Barsha was founded in 1988 as a private American school in Dubai. It is owned by H.E. Mr. Marwan Al Ghurair and is governed by a Board of Trustees responsible for strategic oversight. The campus serves about 2,500 students of 52 nationalities in PK-12, supported by around 360 staff members from 30 Arab and non-Arab nationalities. English is the medium of instruction across subjects, with Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, Moral Education and Culture taught in alignment with MOE mandates. The school has held NEASC accreditation since May 2003, with a 2014 re-accreditation and an NEASC External Review visit conducted in May 2022.
Community	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 The Dubai National School- Al Barsha community is multinational, with around 2,500 students representing 52 nationalities. The school describes its environment as inclusive, multicultural, and globally minded, with Islamic values emphasized. Student life includes a range of internal activities such as World Students' Day celebrations and International Day for Tolerance performances. The school also engages with the wider Dubai education community, participating in events such as KHDA Education Expo and related outreach.
Parent teacher association	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 National School- Al Barsha does not publish a separately named PTA on public pages. Parent involvement is described as tremendously supportive and plays a role in the school's family atmosphere. Parental engagement is encouraged through formal channels and volunteer opportunities noted on the English-language pages. DNS conducts community service and philanthropy activities in collaboration with Emirates Red Crescent, ONAK Ya Watan, Ghaya Volunteer Team, Environment Friends Society and Dubai Cares. The school also hosts student-parent events such as the DNS Entrepreneurial Marathon, an inter-school competition, and participates in broader events such as Education Expo.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	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 National School Al Barsha follows the American curriculum aligned to Massachusetts State Standards. English is the medium of instruction in all subjects across grades, with Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, Moral Education and Culture taught under MOE mandated programs. Graduation requires 28 credits, and the High School offers six AP courses. The school is NEASC-accredited, with initial accreditation in May 2003 and re-accreditations in 2014 and 2022.
Arts & creative	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 opportunities are part of Student Life.
Cultural & language	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 The student body represents 52 nationalities. Arabic Language and Islamic Studies are taught under MOE mandated programs, with cultural education integrated into the curriculum.
Social & hobbies	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 Life includes internal and external activities, Athletics, and Arts.
Community & service	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 —
Leadership & professional	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 There is a Student Leadership program with opportunities for leadership development.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	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 Care & Support provides inclusive education and wellbeing services. A clinic and cafeteria are available, and safeguarding and anti-cyberbullying policies are in place.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	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 teaches in English; Arabic language is taught as part of the curriculum, with MOE mandated programs for Arabic language, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, Moral Education and Culture.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching English is the medium of instruction across all subjects; Arabic is taught as a language subject with a focus on Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Social Studies, Moral Education and Culture following MOE mandated programs.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations Dubai National School offers an American curriculum aligned to Massachusetts State Standards, with English as the medium of instruction across all subjects and additional MOE-mandated Arabic/Islamic/Social Studies/Moral Education content. The curriculum is aligned to Massachusetts frameworks incorporating CCSS and NGSS, and Advanced Placement (AP) is offered in high school. AP results include students achieving perfect scores of 5. The school has six AP courses. The program also aligns with UAE MOE standards.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	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 1. Parents submit an application with information about the child and contact details. They also complete a health and wellbeing form. This initial step begins the admission process. 2. Students are placed in grade levels based on age, previous academic records, and the results of the admission exam and the personal interview with teachers, counsellors and phase leaders. If needed, a one-to-one evaluation may be conducted to inform placement. The placement criteria ensure alignment with the school's admission standards. 3. For phases 2–4, students sit for three paper-based or online admission exams in English, Arabic, Mathematics and high school Physics; non-native Arabic speakers may take a special Arabic exam in addition to English and Mathematics. These exams provide information to determine placement in the offered programs. 4. Admission exams are scheduled on assigned days and times and do not require prior preparation, as they measure candidates' skills and knowledge needed for the grade level. 5. A decision regarding admission is made within two working days. Placement is determined based on the results of the admission exams, reviews of previous academic records, and the personal interview with teachers, counsellors and phase leaders; the Principal may be involved if required. 6. High school candidates from non-American program schools may be required to obtain equivalency from the UAE Ministry of Education. Admission is granted for early registration, and applicants who have siblings studying at DNS receive priority. 7. Phase 1 (PK, KG1 & KG2) admission procedures involve a face-to-face or online interview with the teacher, counsellor and phase leader to evaluate linguistic abilities and motor skills. The interview lasts 15–30 minutes, though it may extend depending on the child's needs. Interviewers observe pencil grip, recognition of colors, shapes and alphabets, and motor skills. 8. If the child refuses to speak, the parents are asked to speak to the child. If the child still does not speak, a video of the child speaking and playing may be assessed as part of the admission process. The interviewing committee analyzes the child's interaction to detect speech difficulties or learning disabilities. 9. If any speech difficulty or learning disability is detected, the phase leader may require an explanation from the parents and may request medical or therapy reports to establish inclusion provisions for the child. The school complies with inclusive admission practices and related policies. 10. Inclusive admission is aligned with UAE law and KHDA guidelines; after enrollment, the child is monitored and parents' consent is sought to start inclusion provisions such as IEPs and BIPs as needed. The head of inclusion leads the inclusion process and participates in interviews and screenings as required.
Scholarships	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 —
Waitlist	Waitlist If there is no opening in a grade, applicants are placed on a waiting list.	Waitlist —
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