Cambridge International School vs GEMS Founders School Dubai South

	C Cambridge International School Dubai, United Arab Emirates	G GEMS Founders School Dubai South Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 23,795 - 36,775	Fees / year AED 30,940 - 40,460
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 14 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary)	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils 700
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 28
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Al Twar 1, near Al Twar Library, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits on Damascus Street in Al Twar 1. The area is well-connected by road and nearby public transport options serve the neighbourhood.	Location GEMS Founders School – Dubai South is located in Dubai South, alongside Expo Road and near Expo City Dubai. Dubai South is the large master-planned development focused on aviation, logistics and real estate, with surrounding residential communities. The campus is accessible from the Dubai South area and is positioned to serve families relocating to the district.
Stages	Stages The school is divided into two sections: Primary (Kindergarten to Year 6) and Secondary (Year 7 to Year 13).	Stages The school is organised into Early Years (EYFS), Primary and Secondary. It opened with FS1 to Year 8 and is planned to extend to Year 13 by 2029, broadening the upper-key-stage coverage over time. Current secondary provision covers Years 7-8, with expansion anticipated to include higher year groups in the future.
School type	School type Co-educational; day school; follows the UK curriculum as part of GEMS Education.	School type The school is co-educational (gender of entry is mixed). It operates as a British-curriculum, international school within the UAE. No boarding facilities are indicated for the Dubai South campus.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Data on the exact number of nationalities and local/international ratios is not publicly published; the school serves a diverse Dubai community with representation from multiple nationalities.	Pupil nationality mix Nationalities represented are broad, with public postings indicating up to 82 nationalities on roll in recent years, and other sources listing around 60 nationalities with Indian as the most common nationality. The local-to-international ratio is not publicly disclosed.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides inclusive education with a dedicated Inclusion team. It supports Students of Determination with individualized plans (IEPs), access to Educational Psychologists and other specialists, and provides modification and differentiation where needed; it also offers alternative pathways such as BTEC and ASDAN where appropriate.	Additional learning support Inclusive Education is a core part of GEMS Founders School – Dubai South. The school welcomes students with a range of learning needs, including students with disabilities, gifted and talented learners, and English Language Learners, with adjustments and targeted strategies to support diverse learners. Parents are asked to share full details of any SEN plans or reports to tailor educational provisions; admission is not conditional solely on a medical diagnosis.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Affiliation: British overseas; follows the UK curriculum and is designated as a British school overseas.	Country affiliation The school follows the National Curriculum for England and is recognised as a British School Overseas (BSO). This reflects a UK-affiliated curriculum and international accreditation rather than a national UAE-only framework.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Religious affiliation: None stated; Dubai's context and the curriculum include Islamic values as part of wellbeing and cultural education.	Religious affiliation There is no separate religious denomination affiliation stated for the Dubai South campus. UAE-specific subjects include Islamic Studies as part of the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum where applicable, but the school itself is not described as affiliated with a particular religion.
School day structure	School day structure CIS opens at 7:20 am. FS1–FS2 run 07:40–12:10; Years 1–13 run 07:40–15:00. The Friday schedule is 07:30–11:15; weekends are Saturday and Sunday. Enrichment activities occur within the school day.	School day structure Foundation Stage timetables start with doors open at 07:10, lessons begin at 07:40, and the day ends at 12:50 (11:20 on Fridays). Primary timetables have doors open around 07:20 with lessons from 07:40 onward and a midday break structure; Fridays show reduced sessions. Secondary timetables begin earlier, with gates open around 07:00 and lessons running from 07:40 through the afternoon, with a shorter Friday day. Ramadan hours may adjust the daily schedule during the holy month.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school contracts with STS Group to provide transport with an extensive fleet of Smart Buses (CCTV, GPS, RFID, etc.). Registration details, safety features, and route options are published by the provider; regional routes and fees are listed, and a dedicated Service Delivery Executive handles arrangements.	Bus service details School Transport Services (STS) LLC operates the bus service for GEMS Founders School – Dubai South. STS is an ISO-accredited provider and handles all transport arrangements and payments directly with families. They offer a large fleet, trained drivers and guardians, and can consider out-of-area requests, though routes are not guaranteed. For inquiries, contact Abishek P at +971-563693171 or [email protected]
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fee - Application fee: AED 525 payable at the time of application. This fee includes VAT, is non-transferable, and is refundable only if the school does not offer a place. Registration / enrolment deposits (payable at acceptance) - Registration deposit: a non-refundable deposit equal to 10% of the total annual tuition is payable when accepting an offer. The registration deposit is deductible from the total tuition for the year. Example registration deposit amounts (payable at acceptance) are: FS: AED 2,380; Years 1–2: AED 2,704; Years 3–4: AED 2,812; Years 5–6: AED 2,920; Years 7–9: AED 3,245; Years 10–11: AED 3,461; Years 12–13: AED 3,678. The application fee and registration deposit combined at the time of admission are shown as: FS AED 2,905; Years 1–2 AED 3,229; Years 3–4 AED 3,337; Years 5–6 AED 3,445; Years 7–9 AED 3,770; Years 10–11 AED 3,986; Years 12–13 AED 4,203. Tuition fees by year group (per term and annual total) - Foundation Stage (FS) - Term 1 (September): AED 9,519. - Term 2 (January): AED 7,138. - Term 3 (April): AED 7,138. - Annual total: AED 23,795. - Years 1–2 - Term 1 (September): AED 10,817. - Term 2 (January): AED 8,112. - Term 3 (April): AED 8,112. - Annual total: AED 27,041. - Years 3–4 - Term 1 (September): AED 11,248. - Term 2 (January): AED 8,437. - Term 3 (April): AED 8,437. - Annual total: AED 28,122. - Years 5–6 - Term 1 (September): AED 11,682. - Term 2 (January): AED 8,761. - Term 3 (April): AED 8,761. - Annual total: AED 29,204. - Years 7–9 - Term 1 (September): AED 12,980. - Term 2 (January): AED 9,734. - Term 3 (April): AED 9,734. - Annual total: AED 32,448. - Years 10–11 - Term 1 (September): AED 13,846. - Term 2 (January): AED 10,383. - Term 3 (April): AED 10,383. - Annual total: AED 34,612. - Years 12–13 (Post-16) - Term 1 (September): AED 14,711. - Term 2 (January): AED 11,032. - Term 3 (April): AED 11,032. - Annual total: AED 36,775. Billing schedule and payment terms - Payment frequency: annual tuition may be collected in three instalments at the start of each term. The standard split is 40% due in the first term, 30% in the second term, and 30% in the third term. Fees are invoiced and payable in advance of attendance. All cheque payments must be made payable to "Cambridge International School" preferably on a bank based in Dubai. - Term due dates (payment schedule as published): First term due 31/08/2025; Second term due 31/12/2025; Third term due 31/03/2026. Non-payment may result in withholding of reports, examination results, references and/or suspension or exclusion. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as an available option and no boarding fees are published for this school. Other costs and typical additional charges - Transport (school bus): transport fees are charged separately. Example annual transport fees and term breakdown by area/route are published; example ranges include annual fees such as AED 5,480 (with per-term breakdown AED 2,192 / AED 1,644 / AED 1,644) up to AED 6,930 (with per-term breakdown AED 2,772 / AED 2,079 / AED 2,079) depending on route. Transport is a separate optional charge and must be registered for with the school's transport team. - Uniforms: uniform items and guidance are published and uniforms are expected to be purchased from the designated supplier (Threads). Specific uniform item lists are provided, though retail prices are set by the supplier and not listed on the school's fee pages. - Optional subjects / exam-related charges: certain subjects (for example Computer Science / ICT in some years) may be optional and any external exam or qualification fees are handled according to standard examination billing; specific examination fees or per-subject charges are not published on the tuition-fees summary page. - Re-enrolment deposit: for returning students a re-registration (re-enrolment) deposit of 5% of total tuition is payable to secure a place for the following academic year; this deposit is non-refundable and is deducted from the first semester fees for the next year. Refunds and withdrawal charges - Application and registration deposits are non-refundable once a place is accepted. Tuition refunds follow Ministry of Education / KHDA bylaws: if a student withdraws before the academic year begins, the balance of the first semester fees paid will be refunded (less registration and admission fees). If a student withdraws during the school year, refund calculations follow the Ministry/KHDA rules: attendance of two weeks or less results in one month's fee charged; attendance of more than two weeks but less than one month results in two months' fee charged; attendance of more than one month results in the entire semester's fees being charged. Refunds are returned to the original payee. A one-month written notice of withdrawal to the Registrar is required. Fee payment options and methods - Accepted payment methods: online via the parent portal for existing families, bank transfer (bank details available from the school), in person at the Accounts Department by debit card, credit card, cheque or cash. Transport fees have a separate online payment link. The school participates in co-branded credit card discount programs (GEMS FAB / GEMS World Credit Card) that provide discounts or cashback on fees/bus/uniform purchases under the bank's terms. Notes on policy and fee review - All tuition fees are payable in advance of attendance and are set in accordance with the fee framework established by GEMS and KHDA. Published fees are subject to KHDA approval and may be reviewed in line with applicable regulations. The school's accounts office receives payments during normal office hours and also offers limited holiday payment hours.	Fee details Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-term amounts, AED) - FS1: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 36,400; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 30,940. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 12,376; Term 2 AED 9,282; Term 3 AED 9,282. - FS2: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 39,900; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 33,915. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 13,567; Term 2 AED 10,174; Term 3 AED 10,174. - Year 1: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 43,400; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 36,890. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 14,756; Term 2 AED 11,067; Term 3 AED 11,067. - Year 2: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 43,400; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 36,890. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 14,756; Term 2 AED 11,067; Term 3 AED 11,067. - Year 3: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 43,400; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 36,890. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 14,756; Term 2 AED 11,067; Term 3 AED 11,067. - Year 4: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 44,800; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 38,080. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 15,232; Term 2 AED 11,424; Term 3 AED 11,424. - Year 5: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 44,800; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 38,080. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 15,232; Term 2 AED 11,424; Term 3 AED 11,424. - Year 6: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 44,800; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 38,080. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 15,232; Term 2 AED 11,424; Term 3 AED 11,424. - Year 7: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 47,600; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 40,460. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 16,184; Term 2 AED 12,138; Term 3 AED 12,138. - Year 8: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 47,600; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 40,460. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 16,184; Term 2 AED 12,138; Term 3 AED 12,138. - Year 9: Annual tuition (KHDA approved) AED 47,600; discounted tuition for AY 2025-2026 AED 40,460. Term breakdown (discounted): Term 1 AED 16,184; Term 2 AED 12,138; Term 3 AED 12,138. Application, enrolment and registration-related fees - Application fee: AED 500 (assessment included). - Enrolment (registration) deposit for new students: up to 10% of the total tuition fees, non-refundable and deductible from the first-term fees. Existing student re-enrolment fees: up to 5% of tuition fees or AED 500 (whichever is higher), non-refundable and deductible from the first-term fees. The school's admissions guidance also sets a registration deposit at the point of offer (stated in admissions material). Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition invoices are issued to the fee sponsor on record two months prior to the start of the academic year. Tuition may be paid in full or in termly instalments. Termly due dates are on or before the 10th working day of: August for Term 1, December for Term 2, and April for Term 3. Term 1 is typically billed at 40% of the annual tuition and Terms 2 and 3 at 30% each. Refunds and student withdrawals - The registration/enrolment deposit is non-refundable. Tuition fee refunds follow the Ministry of Education policy; refund requests must be submitted in writing to the school admissions office and refunds are returned to the original payee. A 30-day written notification period is required for student withdrawals. Non-payment of fees may result in withholding of reports, exclusion from examinations, or loss of place. Other costs and optional charges - Required education supplies and typical ranges: school uniform AED 600 to AED 2,000; laptop/digital device approximately AED 515; school ID card replacement AED 20. Optional service ranges include transport AED 6,600 to AED 9,000; extracurricular activities AED 50 to AED 2,000; canteen AED 20 to AED 3,600; class photographs AED 100 to AED 500; local educational trips AED 50 to AED 2,000; overseas trips (where applicable for older years) from AED 8,000 to AED 30,000; enrichment activities and learning support ranges are published with their own scales. Uniform items must be purchased from the school's approved vendor, Threads. Transport services are provided by an external operator and transport fees are paid directly to that operator.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are supplied by Threads and follow the Cambridge Uniform Guide. FS1–Year 2 wear burgundy polo shirts with grey shorts or trousers, black shoes and socks, a black belt and a logoed schoolbag; Years 3–13 wear white shirts with grey trousers (girls may wear knee-length skirts) and year-specific ties (burgundy for Years 7–11, striped for Years 12–13). PE and winter uniforms are unisex (navy track pants, navy shorts, polo shirts, pullover and cap) and guidelines specify tucked-in shirts, knee-length skirts, neat hair, and limited jewelry.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are sold exclusively through Threads, the school's approved vendor. The uniform must be worn in school and while travelling to and from school, and at formal events; boys wear a tie and girls wear a scarf, with shirts kept tucked in. Shoes must be black leather, hoodies are not permitted, and there are rules on hair, jewellery, and labeling.
Food options	Food options School canteen offers healthy snacks and drinks during breaks. The canteen is operated by SLICES, with a cashless purchasing system; registration with Slices is available.	Food options Slices provides the lunch service; Slices is a home-grown real food company focusing on fresh, wholesome meals. There is a cashless system: parents top up funds via the GEMS Connect app and students use their Slices Card to pay. A Slices parent café offers healthy dining and snack options for parents and visitors.
House system	House system Four Houses named after Middle Eastern birds—Eagles, Falcons, Hawks and Kestrels. Each student belongs to a House, led by a House Captain and a House Vice-Captain; inter-house competitions and house points form part of school life.	House system The school uses a house system with House Captains who promote school spirit and organise house events, fostering healthy competition and camaraderie. The student leadership programme also includes a Student Council, Prefects and Head Students, with leadership workshops, mentorship, and clubs.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The Cambridge International School is part of the GEMS Education group, a private education provider. A Local Advisory Board oversees the school's strategic aims within the GEMS network.	Governance and ownership The school is owned and operated by GEMS Education as part of the GEMS Founders School network. An agreement to operate GEMS Founders School – Dubai South with Dubai South was signed in May 2024, confirming GEMS Education as the campus governance provider.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Cambridge International School Dubai follows the National Curriculum for England, organized into Primary (Kindergarten to Year 6) and Secondary (Year 7 to Year 13) sections, with a Foundation Stage for ages 3–4 (FS1–FS2). Foundation Stage serves 3- and 4-year-olds (FS1–FS2); Key Stages 1–5 correspond to Years 1–13, mapping the NCfE progression. The Cambridge pathway is offered from Year 10–11 with IGCSE, followed by Cambridge AS and A Levels in Years 12–13, and the school is an approved examination centre for Cambridge International Examinations and the University of London. Core subjects include English, Mathematics and Science, with Arabic and other languages, plus Humanities, ICT/Computing, Art, Design & Technology, Music, Drama, Physical Education and PSHE, with optional subjects available in upper secondary. The curriculum also includes digital citizenship and dedicated student care and support as part of its Cambridge framework.	Curriculum details GEMS Founders School Dubai South delivers a British curriculum aligned to the National Curriculum for England, integrated with UAE MOE requirements (Arabic and Islamic Education) and inclusive education. Early Years FS1–FS2 follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), with one teacher and one teaching assistant in every class. Primary School Years 1–6 uses a UK curriculum with core subjects (English, Mathematics, Science) and a broad range of foundation subjects—Art & Design, Computing, Design and Technology, Geography, History, Languages, Music, and PE—alongside MOE Arabic and Islamic Education in a cross-curricular, skills-based approach. Secondary School follows the National Curriculum for England, currently focusing on Key Stage 3 (Years 7–8), with plans to expand to Year 13 by 2029 to provide broader GCSE/alternative pathways, alongside wellbeing, leadership development, and real-world connections, including aviation, aerospace, and logistics. The curriculum is complemented by co-curricular activities, inclusive education, literacy initiatives such as Read Like a GEM, and sustainability and industry-aligned projects.
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 The school embeds Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) within a comprehensive wellbeing framework. The Student Mental Health and Well-being Policy commits to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing for all students, families and staff in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment. It uses Martin Seligman's Positive Psychology approach via Curriculum For Life (PEEC/VIA) to build coping skills, resilience and emotional awareness across the curriculum. Leadership Gemstones provide monthly themes that cultivate character and leadership and connect to the Stand Up, Speak Out anti-bullying framework. Beyond100 is a school wellbeing and longevity programme with five daily pillars (Move Beyond, Nourish Beyond, Rest Beyond, Think Beyond, Align Beyond) that are embedded in daily life, aligning with the Be a GEM ethos and Family First initiatives.	Social & emotional learning GEMS Founders School – Dubai South prioritises social and emotional learning, with the EYFS emphasising the physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing of every child, and the Principal explicitly placing mental and emotional health at the forefront of practice, while the Strategic Plan lists wellbeing as an outcome to be actively supported.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Inclusion is a central, inclusive approach at the Cambridge International School Dubai, aiming to meet the diverse intellectual, social, emotional and physical needs of all students. The school does not filter admissions by disability and provides priority admission for a Student of determination who has a sibling on roll. Students with a range of needs—including gifted and talented pupils, those with special educational needs (SEND), and those facing physical, emotional, cultural or language challenges—are welcome. Full disclosure of any SEND, IEPs and specialist reports is requested before a place is offered so staff can assess needs and plan appropriate resourcing. Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and targeted supports—often within a graduated approach—are used, including small-group or one-to-one strategies and, where appropriate, alternative pathways such as BTEC or ASDAN. The Inclusion team works closely with parents, offering regular workshops and review meetings and maintaining an open-door policy; external specialist resources are engaged when needed.	Special educational needs (SEN) Inclusive Education at GEMS Founders School – Dubai South states it welcomes Students of determination (special education needs and disabilities), Gifted and talented students, and English Language Learners, with staff making adjustments and employing tailored teaching strategies in a common learning environment; parents are asked to share detailed information such as IEPs and professional reports to tailor support, and admission is not conditional on a medical diagnosis, indicating the school is not a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school recognises English as an Additional Language (EAL) and provides a formal EAL policy to ensure equal access to education and progression in English. The policy defines EAL, outlines roles and responsibilities (including an EAL Lead and Head of Inclusion), and sets out identification and referral processes, including screening and standardized assessments. It describes a graduated support model with Level 1 in-class support, Level 2 small-group pullouts, and Level 3 more intensive support with an individualized program (often including an Educational Plan and tools such as Flash Academy). Identification occurs during admission and throughout the year via testing and teacher observations, with parents notified and involved in decisions. An EAL Coordinator leads the programme, and teachers are expected to support EAL learners as part of their classroom practice.	English as an additional language English Language Learners are listed among the groups supported under Inclusive Education, but specific EAL programmes or staffing details are not disclosed publicly.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the same Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy, which prioritises early identification of needs and timely intervention. The policy embraces a Positive Psychology framework and the Curriculum For Life (CFL) approach, including PEEC/VIA lessons, to teach coping skills and resilience. It also integrates wellbeing into daily routines, with the Beyond100 pillars and Leadership Gemstones supporting a structured wellbeing curriculum. The Family First initiative provides parents with practical strategies to support wellbeing at home, ensuring a consistent approach between school and home.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is a core focus, evidenced by the EYFS emphasis on the physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing of every child, and by the Principal's statement that mental and emotional health is at the forefront of practice, with the Strategic Plan explicitly listing wellbeing as a key outcome.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is governed by the GEMS Safeguarding Policy (Policy POLCSG001V5), effective August 1, 2025, with a scheduled review date of August 1, 2026. The policy designates a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and a Deputy, with responsibilities for safeguarding, child protection and staff training, and it relies on a Central Safeguarding Team to guide case management and strategy. Staff are required to record safeguarding concerns on the Guard platform and to follow formal procedures for disclosures and investigations. The policy covers whistleblowing, complaints, safer recruitment, and safeguarding training, and it aligns with UAE regulatory guidance and local appendices. The school provides safeguarding contacts and guidance to staff, families and the Local Advisory Board to ensure a consistent, safety-first culture.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is formalised and cross-cutting, with COBIS-aligned safeguarding policies, a Designated Safeguarding Lead and deputy DSLs, staff safeguarding training, the 'I Care, I Listen' ethos, ongoing student wellbeing support via trained school counsellors, and a Digital Security Awareness programme to protect students online.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Cambridge International School – Dubai offers a comprehensive campus designed to support the British curriculum and a broad range of learning experiences. Key academic spaces include science laboratories and technology labs, a dedicated library, and three computer labs with up-to-date touchscreen PCs. Creative spaces feature an Auditorium/Theatre and a Performing Arts Centre/Studios, along with dedicated art and music facilities. For sport and physical education, the campus provides an Indoor Sports Hall, Games & Sports Field/Pitches, and a Swimming Pool. Additional on-site facilities include a cafeteria, a Medical Centre, and a Secure Campus with outdoor play spaces and school transport services.	Facilities overview GEMS Founders School – Dubai South sits on a 250,000 square-foot campus designed for students aged 3 to 18. The facilities include spacious classrooms, STEAM laboratories, fully equipped food technology and ICT labs, and dedicated language and Islamic studies classrooms, with an indoor play area for Foundation Stage. It features a 25-metre competition-standard swimming pool, a football pitch, and multi-purpose sports halls for basketball, netball, badminton, and gymnastics, set among extensive green spaces. An Innovation Hub supports project-based learning and real-world connections through partnerships with local businesses. The campus emphasizes outdoor spaces and a holistic approach to education.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school offers on-campus sport facilities that include an Indoor Sports Hall and Games & Sports Field/Pitches for a variety of activities. A Swimming Pool is available on site to support aquatic programs and swimming training. These facilities, together with outdoor play spaces, support the school's emphasis on active learning and inter-school sporting involvement.	Sports facilities Facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, a football pitch, and multi-purpose sports halls for basketball, netball, badminton and gymnastics, all set within extensive green outdoor spaces.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include a Library, Science Laboratories, and Technology Labs. The school emphasizes technology-rich learning with three Computer labs updated to all-in-one touchscreen PCs, a range of ICT resources (desktops, interactive panels, boards, Swivl cameras, data projectors, iPads, and touch-screen laptops), and secure Wi-Fi to enable BYOD learning. The campus participates in technology education initiatives and operates as a Microsoft Showcase Centre and a Cisco Academy, reflecting a strong commitment to digital literacy.	Academic facilities The academic facilities include state-of-the-art STEAM laboratories and dedicated labs for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, along with fully equipped food technology and ICT labs. There are dedicated language and Islamic studies classrooms to support the curriculum.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities A broad program of extra-curricular activities includes swimming, basketball, cricket, badminton, football, netball, athletics, rounders, dance, volleyball, and handball. The school supports arts and drama through dedicated spaces such as an art studio and drama activities, and it runs a House System to foster inter-house competitions across sports and the arts. Outdoor Education features trips to Fujairah, Oman, and Mauritius, and there are debate and speech activities including a Debate Society with related competitions.	Extra curricular facilities An Innovation Hub supports project-based learning and links with local businesses for internships and mentorships, expanding learning beyond the classroom. The school also provides a broad range of sports and arts activities as part of its co-curricular programme.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Cambridge International School, Dubai was established on October 18, 1983 with 34 students from 20 nationalities. It began as Cambridge High School in Karama, moved to Al Garhoud in 1986, and later relocated to its current Al Twar site. The school's name was changed to Cambridge International School in 2003. It was designated a Cambridge International Fellowship Centre by the University of Cambridge International Examinations, recognizing excellence in examination practice and results. The school is part of the GEMS Education network.	History GEMS Founders School – Dubai South opened in August 2024 as the fourth school in the Founders brand. GEMS Education signed an agreement with Dubai South on May 30, 2024 to operate a British-curriculum school in the Dubai South residential district. The initial intake covers FS1 to Year 8, with around 500 students at opening. The 250,000-square-foot campus is designed to support growth, with plans to offer Year 13 by 2029. As part of the Founders family, the Dubai South campus joins other Founders schools in the UAE, reflecting GEMS Education's expansion of this brand.
Community	Community The Cambridge International School, Dubai has an active alumni network with graduates pursuing higher education and professional careers worldwide. A House System with four Houses—Eagles, Falcons, Hawks and Kestrels—drives inter-house competitions and student leadership. Extra-curricular activities include outdoor education trips to Fujairah, Oman, and Mauritius, as well as Arts, Drama, and Debate programs, with participation in inter-school competitions such as the Dubai Debate League and World Scholars' Cup. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Awards programme operates at CIS as an Independent Award Centre, enabling students to pursue Bronze, Silver and Gold levels.	Community The school engages beyond the classroom by involving parents and the wider community through workshops and collaborative events. It partners with local organizations to enrich the curriculum and provide real-world learning experiences. The school community is multilingual and multicultural, representing more than 100 nationalities. Sustainability and aviation-related themes are woven into community activities and projects.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Cambridge International School, Dubai uses a formal Parent Partnership program to involve families in their child's education. Communication is central, with consultation evenings, written progress reports, and an open-door policy that allows guardians to speak with staff at any time. The program is supported by research on parental engagement, including findings cited by John Hattie and Desforges about its impact on learning. GEMS promotes three daily engagement strategies—talk, share and encourage—to support learning at home and strengthen home–school links. Parents are encouraged to set high aspirations and to take an active role in supporting their children's learning, including helping with study routines and discussing progress. The partnership aims to strengthen learning outcomes by maintaining ongoing dialogue between families and staff.	Parent teacher association GEMS Founders School Dubai South has a Parent Association (GFPA) that operates within the Founders School network. Close communication with guardians is central, including consultation evenings and written progress reports. An open-door policy ensures parents can speak with teachers at any stage. The GFPA supports a partnership approach to education and encourages parental involvement in school life and decision-making. The For Parents section describes workshops, calendars, and other resources to help families engage with the school. GFPA operates alongside the broader Founders community, reinforcing shared aims of transparency and community involvement.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school uses a House System with four Houses: Eagles, Falcons, Hawks, and Kestrels. Each student belongs to a House and is led by a House Captain and a House Vice-Captain. The Houses drive sporting, artistic and intellectual challenges through inter-house competitions and a points system that recognises achievement. This structure supports teamwork and healthy competition among students.	Academic & intellectual Science, Maths, Robotics, Debate, and Chess clubs are part of the academic and enrichment programme. These CCAs inspire curiosity, problem-solving, and innovation beyond the classroom. They foster critical thinking, collaboration, and analytical skills. Internal CCAs are free of charge, with additional paid activities available through external providers.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Art and Design are offered across painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and ceramics. Students explore a wide range of techniques and develop artistic skills within a dedicated, well-equipped studio. Art and Design is studied up to the end of Key Stage 3, after which it becomes an external examination option. The arts provision includes Drama and Dance as separate strands that support creative expression.	Arts & creative Arts offerings include art, drama, music, photography, and creative writing. Students express themselves, build confidence, and showcase their talents. Participation enhances creativity and performance opportunities.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language Culture & Global Awareness includes cultural celebrations, International Day, and social events that promote diversity, teamwork, and global citizenship. The activities encourage cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Students engage with peers from different backgrounds through school events.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Debate is a key activity for Year 5 and above, organized by the CIS Debate Society. It offers Debate Training, Model United Nations, World Scholars' Cup, and Politics, Problems and Ethics. The school hosts and participates in debates and competitions, including the Dubai Debate League, Gulf Debates, and Cambridge International Primary MUN. Inter-house competitions and performance opportunities also provide social and creative outlets.	Social & hobbies Sports & Wellbeing includes football, basketball, padel, badminton, yoga, and dance. The programme promotes fitness, teamwork, and active lifestyles with options for recreational and competitive play. Students develop resilience and healthy habits through regular practice.
Community & service	Community & service Outdoor Education provides a planned progression of experiences in Fujairah, Oman, and Mauritius, including rafting, mountain biking, camping, rock climbing and canoeing. All students from Year 1 upwards participate in the Environment Club. These activities aim to develop universal values for society, leadership skills and stronger relationships with peers and teachers.	Community & service Leadership & Community includes Student Council, MUN, Eco Club, charity projects, and peer mentoring to nurture responsibility, leadership, and a sense of community. These opportunities foster civic-mindedness and collaboration. Students contribute to school life and the wider community through service initiatives.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Under the House System, students assume leadership roles as House Captain and House Vice-Captain, helping to organise and lead house activities. The Debate Admin is a student-led team that coordinates debate activities. Participation in clubs and societies develops organisational and teamwork skills. These leadership opportunities foster responsibility and collaboration.	Leadership & professional Student leadership is cultivated through ongoing opportunities and programmes that develop confidence, responsibility, and collaborative skills. Membership in student councils and other leadership roles provides practical experience in decision-making and teamwork. The school's CCAs connect leadership activities with real-world contexts.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing A broad on-campus sports program is taught by specialist teachers and includes Swimming, Basketball, Cricket, Badminton, Football, Netball, Athletics, Rounders, Dance, Volleyball and Handball. Inter-house sport and league matches with other Dubai and Gulf schools are held regularly. Dance is integrated in the primary PE program and offered in the Arts program in secondary. Outdoor experiences and the Environment Club also contribute to physical and mental well-being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The sports and wellness elements prioritise fitness and well-being, with activities that support a healthy, active lifestyle. The CCAs offer both recreational and competitive avenues to maintain balance and mental health. Ongoing participation promotes social connection and personal growth.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school follows the National Curriculum of England. Foundation Stage instruction uses English for communication and language, with Arabic and French included at introductory levels. In Key Stage 4, English is a core subject and Arabic and French are among the offered courses. In Key Stage 5, AS and A-Levels are available with Arabic among the subject options.	Language provision The school follows the National Curriculum for England integrated with UAE MOE requirements. English is a core subject in Key Stages 1–3. Arabic Language and Islamic Education are UAE MOE subjects taught across the school. A foreign language is introduced in Key Stage 2, and students achieve proficiency in a modern foreign language by Key Stage 3, with emphasis on communication.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards Leading Parent Partnership Award; KHDA rating: Good (2019).	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations British School Overseas; Cambridge Assessment International Education; Duke of Edinburgh International Awards; ASDAN; Pearson Edexcel; Pearson BTEC; SAT College Board; IELTS; DASSA; Dubai School Games; TASS; Common Sense School; Microsoft Showcase; BSME; SENDIA.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1. Registration for the 2026-2027 academic year is open for all Year Groups (FS1–Year 13). The Admissions team can be contacted for further information. To begin the process, fill the online enquiry form to generate a student enquiry ID. Step 2. An application fee of AED 525 (inclusive of VAT) is due at the time of application. The fee is refundable if the school does not offer a place, but non-refundable if the school offers a place and the family declines it. The fee is not deductible from tuition and is not applicable for students currently enrolled at a GEMS School. Step 3. Please visit the school with the above documents and the student enquiry ID number. Documents may include UAE ID, passport and visa copies, vaccination card, passport-sized photograph, and, for certain year groups, the last final school report. Step 4. Once registered the applicant will be placed on the waiting list and called for an assessment, depending on space availability. Step 5. All admissions will be confirmed subject to the child's assessment results. Step 6. FS 1 – FS 2: Visit the school with the student's documents on completion of Online Enquiry. Year 1 – Year 11: Entrance test in English (reading & writing) and Mathematics (addition & subtraction). Year 3–Year 11: CAT4 test. Year 12–Year 13: Submit the relevant Post 16 Admissions form; admissions are confirmed based on board results. Step 7. Minimum age: FS1 requires 3 years by December 31 of the academic year; FS2 requires 4 years by December 31 of the academic year. Step 8. Re-enroll: to secure a place for the following school year, a 5% of tuition fee deposit is due by the third week of March; the deposit is non-refundable if the offer is rejected, but is creditable against the first term's fees. Re-enrolment is handled through the PARENT PORTAL. Step 9. Withdraw: to withdraw, complete the online withdrawal process via the PARENT PORTAL; a 30-day notification period is required to prepare documents and process refunds where applicable. Transfer Certificates and KHDA attestation processes apply as needed. Step 10. Transfer certificates: the original Transfer Certificate must be provided; for moves from outside the UAE, the certificate must be English or Arabic and attested by the relevant authorities. Admissions offers for Year 12–Year 13 are also influenced by board results.	Admissions New students follow four steps: online application, assessment, enrolment and registration deposit. The online application provides an acknowledgement with an online reference number for further communications. For the assessment, the School Registrar invites the child for an assessment or interview by email or phone; observation is used for Foundation Stage 1 and 2 (FS1/FS2), written assessments for Year 1 and Year 2, and CAT4 with a written assessment for Year 3 to Year 8; results are notified by email or phone. Enrolment is offered to successful applicants, subject to seat availability. The registration deposit is 5% of total tuition fees, payable after an offer is accepted; it is non-refundable and deductible from the total tuition fees. The Finance department will email the schedule of tuition fee payments. Required documents include passport copies for the child and both parents, residency visa pages, birth certificate in English or Arabic, recent passport-size photographs, copies of the last two school reports for all children entering Year 1 and Year 2 (in English) or last two reports and CAT4 for children entering Year 3 and above, nursery reports for FS1 and FS2 if available, a six-month validity medical or therapy report if applicable, immunization/vaccination card, Emirates ID cards (front and back) for child and parents, the original Emirates ID if the child is accepted, and a transfer certificate or leaving certificate (original required on the first day if accepted). The transfer certificate must include the student's full name, date of birth, enrolment date and year group, present class, year/grade completed and promoted to, and the school curriculum, plus the principal's signature and stamp. If transferring from a GCC country or another UAE Emirate, the transfer certificate must be attested by the Ministry of Education; if transferring from countries other than USA, Australia, Canada, Western Europe, Japan and New Zealand, the original transfer certificate must be attested by Educational Authorities, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the UAE Embassy. The documents marked with an asterisk are the minimum mandatory requirement to process the application. For existing students, a Re-Registration Deposit of 5% of total tuition is required to guarantee a place for the following academic year. The school follows the National Curriculum for England and prepares students for a UK education in the future.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist A waiting list is used after registration; applicants are called for assessment depending on space availability and admissions are confirmed based on assessment results.	Waitlist —
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