American School of Dubai vs Universal American School

	A American School of Dubai Dubai, United Arab Emirates	U Universal American School Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 60,571 - 102,303	Fees / year AED 40,377 - 82,925
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,072	Pupils 1,243
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The American School of Dubai is located in Al Barsha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits at the intersection of First Al Khail Street and Hessa Street, opposite the Saudi German Hospital, in Al Barsha 1. The 23-acre, purpose-built Al Barsha campus offers extensive facilities including libraries, performing arts spaces, athletics venues, and aquatic facilities.	Location Universal American School is located in Dubai Festival City, Al Badia, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits within the Dubai Festival City area with convenient access from major roads and nearby transport links. The postal address is P.O. Box 79133.
Stages	Stages ASD is an all-through PreK–12 school. It comprises Early Learning (PreK 3, K1, K2), Elementary School, Middle School, and High School, with a progression from foundational years through to college-preparatory programs.	Stages The school serves students from Pre-K through Grade 12, covering both the early years and the primary/secondary cycles. The curriculum structure mirrors a PK–12 model with elementary and secondary divisions aligned to IB and US standards.
School type	School type The school is co-educational and operates as a day, not-for-profit institution.	School type The school operates as a co-educational day school. It does not offer boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix ASD enrolls around 2,000 students from more than 80 countries. The student body represents about 87 nationalities, with the most represented group holding North American passports (over 70%). Official materials do not publish a precise local-to-international ratio; external sources estimate local students form a small minority in the overall mix.	Pupil nationality mix The student body represents 83 different nationalities. The community is described as highly diverse, with families from many countries contributing to a broad international mix. The school notes that its enrollment includes a large international presence; no single national majority is publicly disclosed.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support ASD provides a learning support program and enrolls a managed number of students needing additional learning support under an Individualized Service Agreement (ISA). A Special Education service is available for eligible students, with a separate facility fee in addition to tuition (AED 51,300 for those requiring services, as specified in the ISA).	Additional learning support Learning Support Services provide inclusive education through the Inclusion Department, developing individualized education plans and offering accommodations and modifications to support students with diverse learning needs and language abilities.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation ASD follows a United States curriculum and describes itself as an international, not-for-profit school; it is not formally affiliated with a specific country.	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation stated; the school offers an American curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation None; ASD has no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is indicated in school materials; UAS presents itself as a secular, internationally minded institution.
School day structure	School day structure Classrooms open at 8:10 a.m. and learning begins at 8:20 a.m. On Monday–Thursday, PreK dismisses at 1:00 p.m., K1 at 2:00 p.m., and K2–G12 at 3:20 p.m. On Fridays, all students finish at 12:00 p.m.	School day structure School days typically begin at 7:45 am. PreK and KG1 finish at 12:45 pm (with an extended day option to 3:15 pm); KG2–Grade 5 end at 3:15 pm; Grades 6–12 end at 3:20 pm.
Bus service details	Bus service details ASD's official bus provider is School Transportation Services (STS). STS offers GPS tracking, electronic attendance, seat belts, centralized operations, and a campus liaison; there are multiple daily departures from campus to numerous Dubai neighborhoods. Specific routes and pricing are arranged through ASD's Admissions Office.	Bus service details The school uses Maverick as its premier transport provider. Maverick offers safe, reliable bus services with driver training, real-time tracking, and bus attendants to support students, focusing on punctuality and safety.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - There is no fee to submit an application. - Once a place is offered, a non-refundable registration fee of AED 1,000 is invoiced with the first tuition payment. Seat reservation / tuition deposit - After a place is offered, a non-refundable seat reservation (tuition deposit) is required to secure the seat; the seat reservation is credited against the total school fees. The school's payment terms treat the seat reservation as non‑refundable for new students. Tuition & Facility Fees (Academic year shown on the school's published fee schedule) - PreK (Pre‑Kindergarten): Tuition AED 60,571 per year. - K1: Tuition AED 64,092 per year. - K2: Tuition AED 69,961 per year; Facility Fee AED 12,984 per year (applies K2–G12 for non‑corporate seat holders). - Grades 1–12: Tuition AED 89,319 per year; Facility Fee AED 12,984 per year (applies K2–G12 for non‑corporate seat holders). - Currency note: the school publishes a USD conversion rate used for reference. Special‑education / Students of Determination - For students who require Special Education Services (as specified in an Individualized Service Agreement), an additional fee of AED 51,300 applies in addition to the standard school fees for the year shown. One‑time and capital fees - Capital Fee (one‑time for new non‑corporate seat holders or for current students no longer holding corporate seats): AED 22,000. - The Capital Fee may be paid in three annual instalments (the school publishes an instalment option). Other routine or optional costs - Facility Fee: AED 12,984 per year for K2–G12 (non‑corporate seat holders). - Uniforms: Students are required to wear a school uniform; uniforms (including PE kit) are available from an official local vendor or the school store and represent an additional family cost. - Personal technology and supplies: Families should budget for personal laptops for Grades 6–12 and standard school supplies. - Learning experiences and trips: Required and optional program costs (examples include Week Without Walls for Middle School, INSPIRE global trips for High School, and other school trips or activities) are charged in addition to tuition. - Transport: School bus service is available through the school's transport provider; transport incurs a separate fee. The published school pages describe the bus service but do not publish a fixed transport tariff on the main fee summary. Refunds and withdrawal charges - The registration fee and the Capital Fee are non‑refundable. Seat reservations are non‑refundable for new students and non‑refundable for returning students after the published deadline. - Refunds of tuition and facility fees are calculated on a term basis and depend on the date of the official withdrawal request; rules specify minimum non‑refundable amounts depending on the length of enrolment (for example: students enrolled two weeks or less — one month's Tuition & Facility fees are not refundable; more than a month — the full term's Tuition & Facility fees may not be refundable). - Fees paid prior to the beginning of the academic year are refundable subject to deduction of the Seat Reservation and Registration fees. Billing schedule and payment terms - Re‑enrolment and key payment timing: the school's re‑enrolment process requires on‑time payment obligations (the published re‑enrollment note references a June 1 payment requirement and the need to supply post‑dated checks or direct debit for re‑enrollment). Failure to meet the June 1 payment or to provide required post‑dated checks/direct debit means the seat is forfeited. - Payment methods accepted: bank transfers (corporate and individual), cash, local check, wire transfer, direct debit, post‑dated checks, and locally issued Visa and MasterCard credit/debit cards for online payments. - Instalment options: the school publishes instalment arrangements for individuals including an Emirates NBD 0% credit‑card instalment plan, and direct debit monthly or quarterly options; corporate arrangements and other instalment plans are available. Boarding / residential fees - Boarding is not applicable. The American School of Dubai operates as a day school and does not list boarding accommodation or boarding fees in its fee schedule. Fee payment practical notes - Capital, facility, tuition and any special‑education fees are invoiced as described above; the seat reservation and registration fee are credited or retained according to the payment terms and refund rules. - For questions about instalment plans, deadlines, or to obtain specific payment schedules and transport charges for a particular grade, the school's business/finance office is identified as the contact point on the school pages. Summary of the most significant fee items (AED) - Annual tuition (selected): PreK AED 60,571; K1 AED 64,092; K2 AED 69,961; Grades 1–12 AED 89,319. - Annual Facility Fee (K2–G12, non‑corporate seat holders): AED 12,984. - One‑time Capital Fee (new non‑corporate seat holders): AED 22,000. - Registration fee (invoiced when a place is offered): AED 1,000. - Additional Special Education charge where applicable: AED 51,300.	Fee details Application and acceptance fees - Application fee: AED 525 (one-time, non-refundable). - Acceptance deposit to secure a place: AED 3,000 (non-refundable; payable within the timeframe specified on the acceptance and subsequently deducted from the first semester's tuition). Tuition fees by year group (Academic Year 2025–2026) — full detail per term and per year group Note: the table below shows the school's listed Current Fee, any KHDA discount shown, the Total discounted fee, and the three term instalments with the term dates as published (Term 1: Aug 25, 2025; Term 2: Dec 25, 2025; Term 3: Mar 25, 2026). These tuition figures do not include school uniform, meals and transportation. - Pre KG — Current Fee: AED 40,377.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 40,377.00; Term 1 (Aug 25, 2025): AED 16,151.00; Term 2 (Dec 25, 2025): AED 12,113.00; Term 3 (Mar 25, 2026): AED 12,113.00. - KG 1 — Current Fee: AED 43,745.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 43,745.00; Term 1: AED 17,499.00; Term 2: AED 13,123.00; Term 3: AED 13,123.00. - KG 2 — Current Fee: AED 49,602.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 49,602.00; Term 1: AED 19,840.00; Term 2: AED 14,881.00; Term 3: AED 14,881.00. - Grade 1 — Current Fee: AED 66,113.00; KHDA discount: AED 3,036.00; Total discounted fee: AED 63,077.00; Term 1: AED 25,231.00; Term 2: AED 18,923.00; Term 3: AED 18,923.00. - Grade 2 — Current Fee: AED 66,113.00; KHDA discount: AED 3,036.00; Total discounted fee: AED 63,077.00; Term 1: AED 25,231.00; Term 2: AED 18,923.00; Term 3: AED 18,923.00. - Grade 3 — Current Fee: AED 66,113.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 66,113.00; Term 1: AED 26,445.00; Term 2: AED 19,834.00; Term 3: AED 19,834.00. - Grade 4 — Current Fee: AED 66,113.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 66,113.00; Term 1: AED 26,445.00; Term 2: AED 19,834.00; Term 3: AED 19,834.00. - Grade 5 — Current Fee: AED 73,419.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 73,419.00; Term 1: AED 29,367.00; Term 2: AED 22,026.00; Term 3: AED 22,026.00. - Grade 6 — Current Fee: AED 73,419.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 73,419.00; Term 1: AED 29,367.00; Term 2: AED 22,026.00; Term 3: AED 22,026.00. - Grade 7 — Current Fee: AED 73,419.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 73,419.00; Term 1: AED 29,367.00; Term 2: AED 22,026.00; Term 3: AED 22,026.00. - Grade 8 — Current Fee: AED 73,419.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 73,419.00; Term 1: AED 29,367.00; Term 2: AED 22,026.00; Term 3: AED 22,026.00. - Grade 9 — Current Fee: AED 82,925.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 82,925.00; Term 1: AED 33,169.00; Term 2: AED 24,878.00; Term 3: AED 24,878.00. - Grade 10 — Current Fee: AED 82,925.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 82,925.00; Term 1: AED 33,169.00; Term 2: AED 24,878.00; Term 3: AED 24,878.00. - Grade 11 — Current Fee: AED 82,925.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 82,925.00; Term 1: AED 33,169.00; Term 2: AED 24,878.00; Term 3: AED 24,878.00. - Grade 12 — Current Fee: AED 82,925.00; KHDA discount: —; Total discounted fee: AED 82,925.00; Term 1: AED 33,169.00; Term 2: AED 24,878.00; Term 3: AED 24,878.00. Billing schedule and payment terms - The tuition instalments are shown as three term payments with the published term dates: Term 1 (listed as Aug 25, 2025), Term 2 (listed as Dec 25, 2025) and Term 3 (listed as Mar 25, 2026). Parents should expect fees to be billed in line with those term dates. - To secure an offered place, the non-refundable AED 3,000 deposit must be paid within the timeframe stated on the acceptance; that deposit is deducted from the first semester's tuition. - Dishonoured cheque fee: AED 250. Boarding fees - The school operates as a day school only; there are no boarding fees. Other costs and fees - Uniforms: Uniforms are supplied by SUMERU and are ordered separately (online ordering and courier delivery available; an additional courier charge applies). Uniform costs are not included in the tuition figures. - Meals and canteen charges: Meals are charged separately and are not included in the tuition figures. - Transportation: Transport is charged separately. Example published 2024–2025 transport fees by area (illustrative of typical charges) show two-way and one-way annual fees such as Area A: AED 4,700 (2-way) / AED 3,290 (1-way); Area B: AED 8,200 / AED 5,740; Area C: AED 8,600 / AED 6,020; Area D: AED 9,300 / AED 6,510. Transportation fees are billed in addition to tuition and may vary by route/area and academic year. - KHDA administrative fees (examples): issuance/attestation of some student certificates and transfer documents are listed as AED 126 (inclusive of VAT) per item in the KHDA fee list shown by the school. Refund information - Refunds are calculated according to the KHDA refund policy as published by the school: fees paid prior to the beginning of the academic year are refundable with the registration/re-registration fee deducted; if the student was enrolled for two weeks or less a month's fees will be deducted; if enrolled between two weeks and one month two months' fees will be deducted; if enrolled for more than a month the full term's fees will be deducted. Fee payment options and instructions - Online payment via the school's parent portal (PowerSchool). - Cash or cheque (cheques should be drawn in the name of Universal American School — Branch of Al-Futtaim Education Foundation LLC). - Electronic bank transfer / direct deposit; when paying by bank transfer parents must notify accounts@uasdubai.ae with payment details and student name/grade. - Blue FAB (Al-Futtaim) credit card payment benefits and promotions are available for tuition payments as described by the school. - Zenda app (introduced January 2025) is an available payment/financing option for school fees and selected school payments; new local and international trips and events are payable via zenda from January 2025. Notes and published disclaimers - The published tuition document notes that discounted fee structures are subject to terms and conditions. Tuition figures published do not include uniform, meals and transportation charges. Parents should follow the school's published payment instructions when making transfers or online payments.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Boarding arrangements: Universal American School Dubai does not offer boarding. It operates as a day school for students from PreK to Grade 12. The IB program listing indicates 'Boarding facilities: DAY,' confirming that no on-site overnight accommodation is provided. There are no documented weekly or flexi-boarding options.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are worn by all students from PreK to 12. The uniform design respects UAE host country culture and reinforces the school's core values of compassion, excellence, integrity, respect, and responsibility. Uniforms are purchased through designated local vendors, and there are no uniforms sold on campus; P.E. kits (red shirt and black athletic shorts) are purchased on campus at the ASD school store.	Uniform requirement Uniform requirement: Uniforms are supplied by SUMERU and can be ordered online with courier delivery. The sets include polos (100% organic cotton), chinos/trousers/skirts/shorts, PE tops and bottoms, and a fleece; footwear must be white, black, or beige and closed-toe, with sandals or high heels not permitted. Senior students may wear a senior jacket and may choose khaki or navy pants when wearing it.
Food options	Food options Through MasterCook as the food services provider, ASD offers pre-plated, pre-ordered healthy hot and cold lunches for elementary students, and a 3-course menu for middle and high school with four meal choices per day, including vegan and vegetarian options. There are additional snacks and beverages from two on-campus cafés and the Falcon's Nest kiosk; the campus is allergen-aware with labeling and a nutrition education framework.	Food options Food options: UAS contracts with Abela & Co to provide nutritious snacks and lunches for PreK–Grade 12. The cafeteria offers meals with a main course, side of vegetables or salad, and fruit, and uses a SPARE cashless payment system to view weekly menus and make purchases. The school operates a nut-free policy due to allergies.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ASD is a not-for-profit independent school governed by a Board of Trustees. The Cultural Foundation operates ASD, having been established by Royal Decree in 2004 as a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to operating the school.	Governance and ownership Governance and ownership: The school runs on a not-for-profit basis and is operated by the Al-Futtaim Education Foundation. It is part of Al-Futtaim's education portfolio and carries the Al-Futtaim Education Foundation backing.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details ASD offers an American-style, standards-based curriculum from Pre-K through 12, culminating in an American high school diploma; Advanced Placement courses are offered in Grades 10–12, including AP Capstone, while the school does not offer the IB Diploma. The Middle School is aligned with Common Core State Standards and uses Standards-Based Grading, with Pursuits enrichment and Week Without Walls as signature elements. The High School operates on a two-semester block schedule, provides online learning via Global Online Academy, and offers about 25 AP courses including AP Capstone. Graduation requires 25 total credits across core areas (English 4, Math 3, Science 3, Social Studies 3, World Languages 2) plus Physical Education/Health 2, Visual & Performing Arts 2, Information Technology 0.5, Core Electives 3, and Non-Core Electives 2.5, with Arab passport students required to study Arabic Language Arts under UAE law. ASD Pathways includes Grade 9–12 tracks such as the Business & Entrepreneurship Pathway with courses like Thinking & Engineering, Economics, AP Economics, internships, and GOA online options. Arabic is taught across Elementary through High School as part of the World Language Program, alongside the primary instruction in English.	Curriculum details Elementary School (Grades 1–5) offers an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) aligned with New York State Standards and UAE MOE standards, with Arabic introduced from PreK and specialist classes in Music, PE, and Art. Middle School (Grades 6–8) is NYSS-based with emphasis on higher-order thinking and inquiry-driven instruction, and it offers elective classes in languages and the arts, including a Week Without Walls learning program. High School (Grades 9–12) is aligned to NYSS and provides two university pathways: the IB Diploma Programme or the AP/NYSS pathway, both leading to an American high school diploma. IB Diploma Pathway requires six courses over two years with external examinations; the University Pathway uses AP courses with externally examined exams that can earn college credit. Instruction is primarily in English; Arabic is taught from PreK, and French and Spanish are offered from Grade 5; UAS is KHDA-accredited for IB PYP and IBDP and is also accredited by MSA and ECIS.
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 ASD supports social and emotional learning through a counseling and support team, including a School Psychologist and Elementary, Middle, and High School Counseling Departments, along with Learning Support Services.	Social & emotional learning UAS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Learning Support Services and Inclusion programs. The Learning Support Services provide equitable opportunities for students with diverse learning needs and language abilities to reach their full learning potential. The Inclusion Department reduces barriers to learning and provides access to the general education curriculum by developing individualized education plans (IEPs) and delivering differentiated instruction, accommodations, and modifications. The English Language Learning (ELL) department supports English language acquisition while encouraging maintenance of mother tongue languages and culture, with focus on speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Counseling services are provided across elementary and secondary divisions to address academic, social/emotional, and behavioral development, complemented by an Advisory curriculum to equip students with tools for well-being and respectful global citizenship. The school emphasizes collaboration with families and the broader community to promote wellbeing and positive social growth.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) ASD provides Learning Support as part of the standard school service for a managed number of students with identified learning needs, offering accommodations, small-group instruction, and an Individual Education Plan, with a School Psychologist and a Speech and Language Therapist on related services; ASD is an inclusive program rather than a separate specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) UAS provides Learning Support Services to support students with diverse learning needs and language abilities, with the aim of equitable opportunities to reach learning potential. The Inclusion Department reduces barriers to learning and provides access to the general education curriculum by developing individualized education plans (IEPs) and offering intensive instruction, differentiation, accommodations, and modifications. The Inclusion Department maximizes inclusion opportunities for SEND students in general education through collaboration with teachers and stakeholders and emphasizes ongoing professional development to apply best practices. The English Language Learning (ELL) department supports language acquisition while encouraging maintenance of mother tongue languages and culture, with services covering speaking, listening, reading, and writing, and collaboration with teachers to support ELL students in general education. Gifted and Talented (G&T) provision develops individualized plans to extend learning and maximize opportunities for students with exceptional abilities. UAS presents inclusive education within the general curriculum rather than advertising itself as a separate specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language EAL screening is required for PreK–Grade 12 applicants to determine appropriate support and placement; ongoing EAL program details are not publicly disclosed.	English as an additional language English is the main language of instruction at UAS. Arabic is taught from Pre-K, and French and Spanish are offered from Grade 5. English Language Learning (ELL) support helps students acquire English across speaking, listening, reading, and writing, while encouraging maintenance of mother tongue languages and culture as part of students' development. ELL services emphasize daily practice and building academic and social vocabulary, and they work with general education teachers to support ELL students in regular classes. ELL staff participate in ongoing professional development to implement current best practices for language learners.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through counseling services and a focus on emotional intelligence and mental health wellness within ASD's Counseling & Support program.	Mental wellbeing UAS provides a wellbeing program addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social needs. The Wellbeing vision is to create a happy, safe, and caring environment with services addressing mental health and emotional well-being through counseling, support groups, and referrals to community resources as needed. The program includes education to prevent bullying and harassment, backed by a zero-tolerance policy for such behaviours. Elementary and Secondary counseling teams advocate for students and deliver academic, social/emotional, and behavioral support, complemented by an Advisory curriculum to promote healthy development. The school emphasizes community involvement and collaboration among parents, staff, and students to foster resilience and inclusive wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding ASD has adopted a Child Protection Policy guiding student safety and welfare, with a safeguarding framework aligned with international standards and CIS commitments.	Safeguarding UAS publishes a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy (updated January 2025) that outlines procedures to keep students safe, including screening of employees, a Professional Code of Conduct for adults and volunteers, supervision of private providers, thorough investigation of complaints, and reporting to authorities such as the police and KHDA as required by Wadeema's Law. The policy designates a Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputy Safeguarding Leads, with clear quick-reference contacts and a stepped process for handling concerns or disclosures, including use of CPOMS and time-bound actions. It emphasizes our staff's duty of care, multi-agency collaboration, and an ethos of “if you see something, say something.” Early Help and liaison with KHDA/Community Development Authority are described as part of safeguarding practice.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview ASD sits on a 23-acre Al Barsha campus that opened in 2010. The campus houses 100 classrooms and two libraries, along with spaces for the performing and visual arts, including a 630-seat theatre and a black box theatre. It provides five art studios, four purpose-built science and computer labs, maker spaces, and a broadcast studio. Outdoor and athletic facilities include indoor and outdoor running tracks, a climbing wall, a dance studio, regulation soccer fields, additional playing fields and play areas, and a fitness center. The campus features two 25-meter swimming pools, six tennis courts, and two cafeterias to support student life, as well as an organic garden for sustainability and outdoor learning.	Facilities overview The Universal American School campus sits on a 70,000 square meter site in Dubai Festival City. It includes expansive science and ICT labs; a fully equipped athletic field and track, a natural grass football pitch, and a multi-sport gymnasium. There are extensive indoor and outdoor covered play areas and a multi-purpose hall. The school provides two large art studios, language specialist rooms, and separate elementary and secondary libraries, along with a medical clinic. A recording studio, radio station and podcast room, and a ceramics room enhance creative and media learning, and a cafeteria with a community cafe supports student life.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities ASD offers extensive athletics facilities on the Al Barsha campus. It includes indoor and outdoor running tracks, a field house, regulation soccer fields, and additional playing fields for a range of sports. The campus has six tennis courts and a fitness center, plus two 25-meter swimming pools for competitive and recreational swimming.	Sports facilities The campus has a fully equipped athletic field and track and a natural grass football pitch. It includes a multi-sport gymnasium for indoor activities and extensive indoor and outdoor covered spaces for physical education and team sports. A swimming pool is on site to support swim programs and water-based activities. These facilities support a broad PE curriculum and inter-school participation.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The campus features two libraries and four purpose-built science and computer labs to support academic work. It includes five art studios and a broadcast studio, along with maker spaces for hands-on projects. The campus is wireless with high-speed internet, enabling technology-enhanced learning across grade levels.	Academic facilities Expansive science and ICT laboratories support science and technology learning. Language specialist rooms provide dedicated spaces for language development. There are separate elementary and secondary libraries to support reading, research, and inquiry across grade levels. The campus integrates technology resources within learning spaces to facilitate digital literacy and research.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Creative and performance spaces support extracurricular activities. The 630-seat performing arts theatre and the black box theatre provide venues for student productions, while band and choir rooms and five art studios support arts programs. A student broadcast studio and maker spaces support media and design projects. Outdoor spaces include an organic garden and a dance studio, and the field house and other athletic facilities enable a wide range of clubs and activities; two cafeterias support student life.	Extra curricular facilities Two large, fully equipped art studios and a ceramics room support visual arts and hands‑on creativity. A recording studio, radio station and podcast room enable media production and performance activities outside the classroom. Additional creative spaces are available for drama and arts‑related clubs and events. The Cafeteria and Community Cafe provide social spaces for student gatherings and after‑school activities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History ASD was established in 1966 by the Dubai Petroleum Company to provide schooling for the children of its expatriate staff, organized with support from International Schools Services. It began in Deira as a small program and grew into a PreK–12 international school over time. In 2004 a Dubai government decree placed ASD on its own governance, with an officially appointed Board of Trustees overseeing the not-for-profit institution. In 2009 ASD moved to the Al Barsha campus, and in 2020 the campus opened a PreK program and Early Learning Centre. ASD is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and serves about 2,000 students from 87 nationalities.	History Universal American School (UAS) in Dubai was founded in 2005 as a not-for-profit international school serving the Dubai Festival City area. The school is operated by the Al-Futtaim Education Foundation (AFEF), a not-for-profit initiative launched by the Al-Futtaim family to advance education in the UAE and beyond. AFEF provides strategic direction and operational support through the Al-Futtaim School Management Company (AFSMC) and funds facilities upgrades, reinforcing a not-for-profit model across its schools. UAS delivers a US/IB curriculum and has KHDA rating Very Good. AFEF supports initiatives such as scholarships and experiential learning to enrich opportunities for students.
Community	Community ASD serves about 2,000 students from 87 nationalities and maintains an active community of parents, alumni, and friends who volunteer on campus. The school offers hundreds of extracurricular activities across the Arts, Athletics, and Service Learning, including more than 40 student organizations and 53 athletics teams. Community life is enriched by arts performances, sports events, service projects, and global experiential trips that involve students and families. Alumni engagement and parent volunteering are integral to campus life, strengthening ties across generations.	Community The UAS community is diverse, with over 80 nationalities represented. Administrators, teachers, and staff work with a broader family of parents and guardians to enrich learning and create a dynamic, caring school environment. The school hosts a range of events and programs that bring families together, including International Day of Tolerance and Diversity and other activities highlighted in What's New. Momentum Magazine and the Meet Our UAS Families feature provide ongoing updates and personal stories from families, reinforcing the sense of community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association ASD's PTSA stands for the Parent Teacher Student Association and is an automatic, no-fee membership for every ASD parent. The PTSA organizes community-building events for the whole family, including the Fall Harvest Festival, Tree Lighting Event, and Faculty/Staff Appreciation Week. It houses the Falcon Business Network, which connects the ASD community with local businesses for networking and collaboration. CAST (Creative Arts Support Team) provides parent-volunteer support for productions, costumes, tickets, receptions, and master classes. The Booster Club supports Middle and High School athletics, organizing sports awards banquets, team socials, and running the Falcon's Nest concession stand.	Parent teacher association Parent involvement at UAS is described through family-focused channels rather than a named PTA. The Meet Our UAS Families page highlights parent voices and experiences from a multicultural community. Momentum Magazine serves as a family-facing publication that shares student achievements, parent stories, and school events. The Al-Futtaim Education Foundation's scholarships and experiential learning programs involve families in opportunities beyond classroom learning. Public events such as International Day of Tolerance and Diversity illustrate active family participation in school life.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ASD High School provides a challenging college-preparatory program aligned with Common Core State Standards and a standards-based grading system. The minimum graduation credit requirement is 25, with a four-year program offering up to 32 credits; students complete core courses in math, science, social studies, English, and world languages each year. In grades 10–12, students may enroll in Advanced Placement courses, with ASD offering 25 AP courses including the AP Capstone Diploma. AP courses carry a 0.25 weight in GPA, and the AP Capstone Diploma requires four AP courses, a research seminar, and an independent project.	Academic & intellectual Universal American School offers the New York State Standards curriculum (NYSS) and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) in Elementary School. In grades 6–10, courses align to NYSS. In grades 11–12, students may choose either the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme or an AP/NYSS pathway, both leading to an American high school diploma; the IB Diploma pathway yields an IB Diploma, while the AP/NYSS pathway can provide university credit through AP exams.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative ASD supports arts and creative expression through campus life and electives. The High School Course Catalog includes Advanced Dance, Advanced Theatre Production, and opportunities in creative writing and other performing arts offerings.	Arts & creative Elective classes include visual arts, theatre, band, and choir. Two large art studios support arts education. Language specialist rooms are available to support language learning and integration of arts.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language World Languages are part of the curriculum, including Arabic Language Arts as a dedicated World Language track. Arabic Language Arts and other World Languages are available within the High School curriculum.	Cultural & language World Languages program includes Spanish, French, and Arabic. Arabic is taught from PreK; French and Spanish are offered from Grade 5. The campus also maintains libraries with resources in seven languages to support multilingual learning.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Campus Life includes Arts, Athletics, Aquatics, Campus Recreation, and Student Organizations, providing a range of extracurricular activities to support student interests.	Social & hobbies LEAP is the after-school program offering extended day care for PreK through Grade 6, with LEAP Junior available for younger students. The Week Without Walls program extends learning beyond the classroom. A broad range of activities and clubs are offered as part of after-school programming.
Community & service	Community & service INSPIRE Global Experiences provide cultural, eco-adventure, or service-learning opportunities; Service Learning is an ASD program that engages students in campus, community, and global sustainability initiatives.	Community & service Service-learning opportunities include internships with the Al-Futtaim Group and other community programs. The Al-Futtaim Education Foundation offers scholarships, including Emirati scholarships and various academic/talent scholarships. Community, Activity and Service programs support student engagement with local and global communities.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Counseling & Support offers personalized student development and college planning; University Rep Visits contribute to college readiness; INSPIRE Global Experiences fosters leadership and professional development opportunities.	Leadership & professional Internships with the Al-Futtaim Group provide students with professional experience.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing ASD provides Athletics, Aquatics, and Campus Recreation as part of campus life, supporting physical health and wellbeing alongside wellness programming.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school provides nutritious meals through its cafeteria, with a cashless SPARE payment system. Campus facilities include an athletic field, track, swimming pool, gym, and outdoor/indoor sports spaces, as well as a medical clinic on site.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches English and Arabic as core subjects. Arabic Language Arts classes align with UAE MOE standards for Arabic as a First Language and are mandatory through Grade 12 for Arab passport holders. The World Languages program offers Arabic, French, and Spanish across Middle and High School with courses ranging from Novice High to Advanced levels, and graduation requires 2 credits in one language.	Language provision English is the main language of instruction. Arabic is taught starting in PreK. French and Spanish are offered starting in Grade 5.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards ASD has received awards and recognitions for sustainability and campus initiatives as part of its broader program and campus developments.	Awards IB/US curriculum accreditation and KHDA rating mentioned on site
Accreditations	Accreditations Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; ASD is an independent not-for-profit school offering a U.S. curriculum from PreK to 12. It enrolls approximately 2,000 students and operates on a 23-acre Al Barsha campus in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with extensive facilities including 100 classrooms, two libraries, a 630-seat performing arts theater, and multiple arts and sports spaces.	Accreditations KHDA Very Good; IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) and IB/US curriculum pathway; Al-Futtaim Education Foundation affiliation; ECIS/IB World School logos shown on site
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Applications for the 2026-2027 school year are now open. Begin your online application through the Nexus portal. 2. Submit the required documents for your child's application. All documents not in English must be translated. You can check the status of requirements in the application portal, and documents are marked complete when received. Requirements vary by grade and can include photos, passport copies, school reports, recommendations, an introductory video, and, where applicable, standardized test scores. 3. Admissions timeline: PreK-K2 deadlines: November 10; decisions December 10. Grades 1-12: February 10 deadline; decisions March 6. Status updates are available in the portal, and admissions decisions are based on multiple criteria including reports, transcripts, recommendations, and assessments. 4. Campus visits and virtual meetings: ASD aims to meet applicants in person when possible. Students who complete applications by the deadline are invited for a campus visit in mid-November. For applicants overseas, a virtual meeting can be scheduled. 5. Waitpool: If a grade is full, the applicant is placed in the waitpool (waitlist). Movement from the waitpool is not determined by date of application. 6. Enrollment after seat offer: If admitted and offered a seat, enrollment documents are required to register with the UAE Ministry of Education. Enrollment with MOE is required to finalize admission.	Admissions 1. Complete the online application form. An acknowledgement is sent containing the next steps of the registration process. A member of the admissions team will contact you to take you through the next steps. Applications must be submitted online, and a 525 AED application fee (one-time nonrefundable) is payable prior to the assessment. 2. If a place is offered, a letter of acceptance will be issued along with joining information. To secure the place, a non-refundable deposit of 3,000 AED should be paid within 3 days of receiving the acceptance, and this amount will be deducted from the first semester's tuition fees. 3. Documents to submit with the application: Student's Passport; Parents' Passports; Student's Recent Report Card (past 2 years, in English); Recent Standardized Test Scores (e.g. 4. Special note: Once all required documents have been submitted, the application will be processed within one to two working days; the admission file review is completed by the divisional principal to ensure proper grade level placement. 5. Documents to submit upon acceptance include: Birth Certificate; Emirates IDs (student and parents); Digital photos; Final report card (current academic year); Vaccination records; Health form; Transportation form (if applicable); Mandatory Transfer Certificate (electronically via KHDA for Dubai transfers; for transfers from outside Dubai, the original Transfer Certificate must be translated and attested as required); for certain regions attestation requirements may apply; if residency visas and Emirates IDs are not available at acceptance, they can be submitted later.
Scholarships	Scholarships ASD offers a Financial Assistance Fund to support families experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19; the fund aims to keep families in the ASD community. Interested families submit an online application and provide supporting documents: income statement, asset and liability statement, tax returns (if applicable), bank statements, and salary/benefits letter. The online application is available June 3; the deadline is July 1; decisions are announced July 10-14; the first tuition installment is due July 15.	Scholarships Scholarships are offered by the Al-Futtaim Education Foundation. Categories include Emirati students (academic excellence) with up to 100% scholarships, Talent and Sports with up to 50% discounts, and IBDP Academic Excellence with up to 50% discounts. Scholarships are annual and subject to terms; the 2025-2026 scholarship applications have closed. The scholarships are valid for applicable years as specified (e.g., Emirati and IBDP awards for Grade 11–12).
Waitlist	Waitlist ASD maintains a waitpool for full grade levels. Movement from the waitpool is not determined by application date. The Admissions team processes completed applications and notifies families.	Waitlist —
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