Dubai Gem Private School vs Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou – Oud Metha

	D Dubai Gem Private School Dubai, United Arab Emirates	L Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou – Oud Metha Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 19,607 - 32,471	Fees / year AED 31,276
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels, Pearson Edexcel IGCSE	Curriculum French Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,106	Pupils 2,616
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 26
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language French, English
Opened	Opened 1973	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Dubai Gem Private School is located on Oud Metha Road in Dubai, UAE (P.O. Box 989). The school sits in the Oud Metha district of Dubai.	Location Two Dubai campuses: Oud Metha and Academic City. Oud Metha campus houses the Maternelle (Petite Section to Grande Section) and is located in the Oud Metha district. Academic City campus houses the Ecole Elementaire, College and Lyce9e (Terminale) on the Academic City campus in Dubai. The school is part of the AEFE network affiliated with France.
Stages	Stages Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2); Primary School (Years 1–6, ages 5–11); Secondary School (Years 7–13, including the Sixth Form).	Stages Oud Metha: Maternelle (Petite Section to Grande Section). Academic City: Ecole Elementaire, College and Lyce9e (CP to Terminale).
School type	School type —	School type —
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Dubai Gem Private School has inclusive education with a dedicated STEP (Striving Towards Enhancement and Progress) team, including counsellors, specialist teachers and learning support assistants. There are three learning labs (Literacy/English and Numeracy/Math), a sensory room, and two counselling rooms to support students of determination; assessments, targeted plans and access arrangements are used to tailor support.	Additional learning support The Inclusion Department is dedicated to supporting students with specific educational, social or emotional needs, identifying their needs, developing personalized support plans, providing psychological support, and promoting inclusive practices in partnership with families and the school team.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation United Kingdom (affiliated to Cambridge University of London). The school is recognized by the Dubai Ministry of Education.	Country affiliation France
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Islamic Studies and the Quran are mandatory for Islamic students; non-Islamic students study Moral Science.	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure Dubai Gem opens its doors at 7:00. Gates open at 7:00. FS1–FS2 operate 8:00–13:00. Years 1–13 run 7:40–14:40. The Friday schedule is 7:40–11:00. The school week runs Monday to Friday; weekend is Saturday and Sunday.	School day structure Oud Metha (Maternelle): morning arrival 8:10; afternoon departures 2:45 and 4:45. Academic City Elementary: morning arrival 8:00; departures 2:15 and 4:00. Academic City Secondary: morning arrival 7:45; departures 3:25 and 5:20.
Bus service details	Bus service details The school provides a transport service for eligible pupils. A minimum of 15 children is required to operate a bus route. Transport fees are chargeable per term; there is no one-way transport. Bus stops and timings are determined by the school. Buses must be operated by approved staff (bus conductor, driver) and use regulated routes; safety rules apply.	Bus service details A school bus transport service is provided across three campuses. Expert Transport serves Oud Metha Maternelle and Academic City Elementary; STS serves Academic City Secondary. Service starts the day after the school year begins; schedules are published 24 hours before the first trip; door-to-door service available; fees are billed by the providers. Contacts: Expert Transport for Maternelle/Elementary; STS for Secondary.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application fee for new admissions: AED 525 (including VAT). - Registration / Advance fee to confirm a new student's seat: 10% of the annual tuition fee (this advance is adjusted against scheduled term fees). Specific registration amounts published by year group are: FS1–FS2 AED 1,350; Years 1–3 AED 1,415; Years 4–5 AED 1,485; Year 6 AED 1,705; Year 7 AED 1,745; Year 8 AED 1,850; Year 9 AED 1,965; Years 10–11 AED 2,070; Year 12 AED 2,615; Year 13 AED 2,775. Tuition fees — per term and annual totals (Academic year 2025–2026 schedule used) Note: tuition is shown per term (First term / Second term / Third term) followed by the annual total for continuing students. Where the school publishes a different fee for new students joining in the first term, that is listed separately below for the year groups where it differs. - FS1 (continuing students): First term AED 7,171 · Second term AED 6,786 · Third term AED 5,650 · Annual total AED 19,607. - FS2 (continuing students): First term AED 6,603 · Second term AED 6,854 · Third term AED 5,650 · Annual total AED 19,107. - Year 1: First term AED 7,176 · Second term AED 7,255 · Third term AED 6,054 · Annual total AED 20,485. - Year 2: First term AED 7,371 · Second term AED 7,428 · Third term AED 6,054 · Annual total AED 20,853. - Year 3: First term AED 7,560 · Second term AED 7,423 · Third term AED 6,054 · Annual total AED 21,037. - Year 4: First term AED 8,226 · Second term AED 7,875 · Third term AED 6,310 · Annual total AED 22,411. - Year 5: First term AED 8,280 · Second term AED 7,964 · Third term AED 6,363 · Annual total AED 22,607. - Year 6: First term AED 9,157 · Second term AED 8,819 · Third term AED 7,181 · Annual total AED 25,157. - Year 7: First term AED 9,214 · Second term AED 8,971 · Third term AED 7,353 · Annual total AED 25,538. - Year 8: First term AED 9,503 · Second term AED 9,341 · Third term AED 7,778 · Annual total AED 26,622. - Year 9: First term AED 9,085 · Second term AED 9,406 · Third term AED 8,003 · Annual total AED 26,494. - Year 10: First term AED 9,085 · Second term AED 9,961 · Third term AED 8,408 · Annual total AED 27,454. - Year 11: First term AED 10,660 · Second term AED 11,589 · Third term AED 3,359 · Annual total AED 25,608. - Year 12: First term AED 11,551 · Second term AED 12,479 · Third term AED 6,877 · Annual total AED 30,907. - Year 13: First term AED 13,386 · Second term AED 14,565 · Third term AED 3,320 · Annual total AED 31,271. Fees that differ for new students joining in the first term (per-term and annual totals where applicable) - FS1: same as continuing students — First term AED 7,171 · Second term AED 6,786 · Third term AED 5,650 · Annual AED 19,607. - FS2 (new joiners): First term AED 7,228 · Second term AED 6,854 · Third term AED 5,650 · Annual AED 19,732. - Year 1 (new joiners): First term AED 7,801 · Second term AED 7,255 · Third term AED 6,054 · Annual AED 21,110. - Year 2 (new joiners): First term AED 8,021 · Second term AED 7,428 · Third term AED 6,054 · Annual AED 21,503. - Year 3 (new joiners): First term AED 8,210 · Second term AED 7,423 · Third term AED 6,054 · Annual AED 21,687. - Year 4 (new joiners): First term AED 8,876 · Second term AED 7,875 · Third term AED 6,310 · Annual AED 23,061. - Year 5 (new joiners): First term AED 8,965 · Second term AED 7,964 · Third term AED 6,363 · Annual AED 23,292. - Year 6 (new joiners): First term AED 9,842 · Second term AED 8,819 · Third term AED 7,181 · Annual AED 25,842. - Year 7 (new joiners): First term AED 9,999 · Second term AED 8,971 · Third term AED 7,353 · Annual AED 26,323. - Year 8 (new joiners): First term AED 10,303 · Second term AED 9,341 · Third term AED 7,778 · Annual AED 27,422. - Year 9 (new joiners): First term AED 9,935 · Second term AED 9,406 · Third term AED 8,003 · Annual AED 27,344. - Year 10 (new joiners): First term AED 9,985 · Second term AED 9,961 · Third term AED 8,408 · Annual AED 28,354. - Year 11 (new joiners): First term AED 11,610 · Second term AED 11,589 · Third term AED 3,359 · Annual AED 26,558. - Year 12 (new joiners): First term AED 12,501 · Second term AED 12,479 · Third term AED 6,877 · Annual AED 31,857. - Year 13 (new joiners): First term AED 14,586 · Second term AED 14,565 · Third term AED 3,320 · Annual AED 32,471. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition payment schedule: - FS1–Year 10: fees payable in three instalments — September (1st term), January (2nd term) and April (3rd term). - Year 11–Year 13: fees payable in three instalments — September, December and March (term timing differs for examination-year groups). - Re-registration fee: to be paid with the 3rd term fees and adjusted with the 1st term fees of the new academic year. - Early payment discount: up to 10% on the annual tuition fee is available for families who pay the total current year fees in one instalment by 20 September of the academic year. Staff, sibling and other discounts are published in the fees schedule. Mandatory, optional and additional costs (term-wise and one-off items) - Mandatory PE uniform, medical and classroom resources (per term examples): - FS1–FS2: AED 580 (1st term) · AED 570 (2nd term). - Year 1: AED 725 per term (where listed). - Year group amounts vary by phase; full term amounts are published in the schedule. - Activity fees (per term): - FS1–FS2: AED 180 (1st term) · AED 170 (2nd term) · AED 100 (3rd term). - Year 1–Year 10: AED 200 per term. - Year 11–Year 13: AED 300 per term. - Books fees (examples): FS1 AED 330; FS2 AED 340; Year 1 AED 545; Year 4 AED 965; Year 6 AED 900; Year 9 AED 525. These cover prescribed books/e-books as listed by year group. - Optional / online learning resources and other optional fees: charged and collected with term fees (covers Seesaw, Literacy Planet, MyiMath, Bridge-U, CAT4, NGRT, PTE, etc., and items such as yearbook, photographs and local trips). Extra‑curricular and STEM fees are charged per term by year group. - Optional subject equipment charges: AED 400 per optional subject per annum (Years 9–11) and AED 600 per optional subject per annum (Years 12–13). These are payable with the 2nd term fees. - Board exam fees (Year 11–13): charged separately and depend on the subject entries chosen (IGCSE / AS / A level). Transport (school bus) fees and rules - Transport fees: AED 2,000 per term for nearby areas (Karama, Bur Dubai, Deira, Satwa, Jumeirah 1) or AED 2,800 per term for more distant locations; actual route availability requires a minimum of 15 students per route. Transport fees are payable every term. - Transport service cannot be discontinued during a term. One month's notice is required to discontinue the service for the next term; if notice is not given, one month's transport fee will be charged. There is no one‑way transport option. Transport will not be available for Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13 unless paid for the full academic year in September. Discounts and concessions - Early payment discount: up to 10% of the annual tuition fee for payment of the full year by 20 September. - Staff discount: 10% of the annual tuition fee for employees of the school. - Sibling discount (families with 3 or more children enrolled): 3 siblings receive AED 300 each annually; 4 or more siblings receive AED 450 each annually. - Humanitarian financial aid and talent-based concessions are available subject to Board approval (terms and amounts published in the school's fee policy). Fee payment options and banking details - Credit card: payment by credit card is facilitated through the PAYIT app (First Gulf Bank collaboration). Details to download the app are provided to parents through the school portal. - Other payment methods: cheque, cash or online bank transfer. Parents should send payment confirmation with student details to accounts@dubaigem.ae for reconciliation; receipts are issued via the parent portal. - Bank details published for transfers: - Bank Name: Dubai Islamic Bank - Account Name: Dubai Gem Private School - Account No: 001520140214501 - IBAN: AE660240001520140214501 - SWIFT Code: DUIBAEADXXX. Re-registration, refunds and other administrative notes - Re-registration fee: payable with 3rd term fees and adjusted against the 1st term fees of the new academic year. - Refund information: no general refund terms for tuition or deposits are published in the fee schedule; specific charges such as examination fees or equipment fees are charged separately as noted. Parents should follow the school's published billing and accounts processes for any exceptional refund or fee adjustment requests. Other points on additional charges and timing - Equipment charges for optional subjects (Years 9–13) and the timing of these charges are specified (paid in the 2nd term where applicable). Board exam entry charges are additional and based on subject entries. Receipts and invoices are issued through the parent portal and the accounts office is reachable at accounts@dubaigem.ae for fee queries.	Fee details Application and assessment fees - Application (assessment) fee for new applicants: AED 500, payable at time of application and non-refundable. Tuition fees by year group (Oud Metha — Maternelle / Kindergarten) - Petite Section (Pre‑KG): AED 31,276 per year. - Moyenne Section (KG1): AED 31,276 per year. - Grande Section (KG2): AED 31,276 per year. How the tuition is presented and typical additional school costs - The tuition figure above is the annual tuition charge for each Maternelle year at Oud Metha. Expected additional school costs (ranges shown where the school lists variability) include: required supplies and equipment (uniforms AED 86–230; books AED 0–100; laptop/digital device AED 500), and optional services such as student transport (range AED 6,025–9,400), extracurricular activities (AED 300–3,960), medical cover (AED 0–1,500), school trips (AED 10–300) and canteen (range shown up to AED 3,700). These items are charged separately from tuition according to participation and choices. Enrolment, re‑enrolment and deposit charges - On acceptance a confirmation invoice is issued: the family must pay AED 500 (application/administration) plus a deposit equal to 10% of the annual tuition to confirm the place; these amounts are non‑refundable. For mid‑year entry the tuition is calculated pro rata. Payment of the confirmation invoice is required within the time stated on the invoice (the school requires prompt settlement; the admission policy specifies a short deadline once invoiced). - Re‑enrolment (existing students) charge: up to 5% of the tuition fee or AED 500 (whichever is higher); this is non‑refundable and is deducted from the first term invoice. - Enrolment fee for new students: up to 10% of the tuition fee; non‑refundable and deductible from the first term invoice. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school issues invoices from its finance office. For a confirmed place the initial invoice (AED 500 + 10% deposit) must be paid within the deadline indicated on the invoice (the admission rules require settlement within seven days of the invoice for admissions). Other tuition balances and optional fees are invoiced and must be paid under the school's stated deadlines; prorated charges apply for in‑year entry. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable for the Oud Metha (Maternelle) campus; no boarding fees are charged for Oud Metha students. Other charges and optional programs - Language or strengthened sections: selecting certain language or reinforced international sections at Maternelle may incur additional annual supplementary charges as listed in the school's fee fact sheets. Other optional programmes (special immersion programmes, entrance/aptitude tests, some specialist activities) carry separate fees (examples: language immersion programme amounts and aptitude/test fees are published as separate items). Refund and non‑refund rules - Application and admission deposits indicated above are non‑refundable. Re‑enrolment and enrolment fees, as stated, are non‑refundable and are deductible from the first term invoice where applicable. Prorated tuition is applied only for entry during the school year. Discounts and sibling / staff concessions - The school operates discount schemes: staff discounts (up to 50%) and sibling discounts according to position (examples given in the school's financial information). The precise percentage depends on the sibling order and the scheme in force for the year. Fee payment methods and invoicing platform - Admissions and invoicing are handled through the school's online admissions/billing portal (Eduka). Invoices are issued by the school's finance office and the school uses Eduka as its billing platform; Eduka supports typical payment channels (online card gateways and bank transfer options through its payment gateway integrations). Families follow the invoice instructions and the school's billing schedule when making payments. Summary (Oud Metha Maternelle — headline items) - Annual tuition (PS / KG1 / KG2): AED 31,276 per year. - Application fee (new students): AED 500 (non‑refundable). - Enrolment deposit: up to 10% of annual tuition (non‑refundable, deductible from first term). - Re‑enrolment fee (existing students): up to 5% of annual tuition or AED 500 (whichever is higher), non‑refundable and deductible from first term. - Optional transport and services, uniforms, books and excursions are charged separately within the ranges shown above.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are crafted from high-quality, durable fabrics for longevity and comfort. They are designed for a comfortable fit and a stylish, modern appearance.	Uniform requirement All students wear the official LFIGP uniform. Adjustments for comfort are allowed, but altering the original design is not allowed. Accessories such as socks, hats or caps, and shoes are optional. The uniform collection includes polos, shirts, pants, skirts, and more; Threads is the official supplier, with appointments to visit or purchase arranged through Threads' service, and stores located at Dubai Cityland Mall and Dubai Times Square Center Outlet.
Food options	Food options —	Food options Kindergarten: Meals are taken in the classroom at 12:05 PM (Monday to Thursday). Students may bring a lunch box or order a meal via Ben's Farmhouse (20 AED per meal). A healthy snack must be provided by parents each morning. Peanuts and nuts are prohibited due to allergies. Elementary: Parents may choose between a lunch box or ordering meals for the term via Spare (23 AED per meal). Meals are served on-site by Ben's Farmhouse. Secondary: Students may eat in the cafeteria or designated spaces; meals are served on-site, with a cafeteria card issued on entry to 6th grade and recharged via Spare (card recharge is cash-only at Secondary). Cafeteria meals cost 25 AED and kiosks vary by purchases. General rules: Food deliveries to the school are prohibited.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is owned and governed by its founders and directors: Latifa Rabi, Sultana Rabi, Rana Abbas, and Redhwana Abbas, who are actively involved in governance. The UAE National Agenda priorities are incorporated into the school's vision and mission, and the school offers the UK National Curriculum.	Governance and ownership The LFIGP is a non-profit Emirati association under the aegis of the Community Development Authority (CDA), a government authority established in 2008. The association brings together parent members, with an annual membership of 50 AED. The school is managed by a Board composed primarily of parent members; contact the Board at board@lfigp.org.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details UK main curriculum is followed. Language of instruction is English. External tests and examinations include IGCSE, AS-Level and A-Level (Cambridge and Edexcel). The curriculum is broad and balanced with cross-curricular links embedded across phases. In the Post-16 phase, attainment is high in English, mathematics and science.	Curriculum details The Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou follows the French national education system within the AEFE network, with campuses at Oud Metha and at Academic City (Elementary and Secondary). The curriculum is organized into cycles: Elementary (6-9 years) CP, CE1, CE2; Elementary and Collège (9-12 years) CM1, CM2, and 6e; College (12-15 years) 5e, 4e, 3e; the Determination Cycle (15-16 years) Seconde; and the Terminal Cycle (16-18 years) Première and Terminale with options in literature, sciences, economics, technologies or arts. Core subjects include French, mathematics, sciences, history-geography, English, technology, and civic education, with progression across cycles. The school offers linguistic pathways called Parcours linguistiques et sportifs, including reinforced French (SIFR) or reinforced English (SIAR): CP has 4h30 of English and 15h of French (SIFR) or 9h English and 12h French (SIAR); from CE1 to CM2 the allocations are 3h English and 14h45 French (SIFR) or 9h French and 9h English (SIAR). Arabic as a Foreign Language (ALE) is offered at beginner and advanced levels and is mandatory through Year 3. Final exams support preparation for the Baccalaureate with results described as 97-100% success rate annually and about 42% of students earning a Very Good mention, with a notable share achieving Very Good mentions at the Baccalaureate.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Teacher–student ratio is 1:20.	Student teacher ratio The school has about 2,500 students and 200 teachers, giving an approximate student-teacher ratio of 12.5 to 1.
Exam results	Exam results June 2025 examination results show 76% of IGCSE entries achieved A–B; 55% of AS Level entries achieved A–B; and 67% of A Level entries achieved A–B.	Exam results The school reports a 100% pass rate at the Baccalaureate, with 42% of students earning a Very Good mention.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression All students are monitored to continue their academic journey into universities across the world.	Higher education progression Graduates pursue higher education at leading universities around the world, reflecting strong outcomes in national examinations and alignment with the French national curriculum.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Gifted and Talented provision includes an extensive enrichment program with after-school clubs and opportunities to engage with external providers; activities may involve visits to universities or sites of special interest; students are monitored to support progression to universities worldwide.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school prioritizes student wellbeing as a core component of its educational philosophy and supports emotional and social growth through a holistic wellbeing programme. It emphasizes safety, inclusion, mental health, and student voice. The wellbeing programme embeds peer mentoring, safeguarding pathways, trained counsellors, healthy lifestyle clubs, regular tutor check-ins, student leadership opportunities, staff wellbeing training, and parent workshops.	Social & emotional learning Well-being is central to LFIGP's approach. The school maintains a calm, inclusive climate that supports learning, where every student can grow, thrive, and find their place. Inclusion is a core value of the project, with the school supporting each student in their journey with care and respect for differences. The educational, pastoral, administrative, and support staff work together with families to provide optimal conditions for every pupil's success. The richness of school life, including sports, arts, clubs, debates, and citizenship projects, contributes to balance and openness to the world.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Special educational needs support is provided within an inclusive environment. The Inclusion policy supports equal opportunities for every learner, and the Head of Inclusion oversees inclusion. The school maintains safeguarding pathways and professional counselling for students with additional needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) The Pôle Inclusion is dedicated to supporting students with educational, social, or emotional needs. Its aim is to guarantee inclusive and fulfilling schooling for all students in close partnership with families and the teaching team. The Inclusion team includes Sylvie Edelé as head and Soria Kouidri as assistant. Its main tasks are to identify specific needs through observations and discussions, develop personalized support plans, provide psychological support and tailored tools to promote independence and confidence, and raise awareness about inclusion across the school community. The Inclusion approach is integrated into the school's overall commitment to inclusive education.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The language of instruction is English. English is studied as a first language. Arabic is mandatory from FS1 to Year 10 and optional from Year 11 onwards; students from Year 1 can choose French, Hindi, or Urdu as a second language.	English as an additional language Multilingual education is central to LFIGP, with emphasis on French complemented by other languages to develop plurilingual students open to cultural diversity. The program aims to master at least three languages in addition to French, including English, Arabic, German, and Spanish. English-language pathways are offered through Section Internationale Française Renforcé (SIFR) and Section Internationale Anglais Renforcé (SIAR), with English instruction structured to meet different student needs. Arabic is taught as part of the core program, with Arabic language instruction continuing through various levels, and ALM for Arabic-speaking students. In secondary, a third language (German or Spanish) is introduced, and bilingual or trilingual tracks (BFI) and European sections are available to support international university pathways.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental health and emotional wellbeing are central to the wellbeing programme, with trained counsellors and wellbeing initiatives integrated into student support, alongside peer mentoring and regular tutor check-ins.	Mental wellbeing Student wellbeing is at the heart of the school's concerns; LFIGP aims to create a serene, inclusive climate that supports learning and personal growth. The Pôle Inclusion provides psychological support and tailored tools to develop autonomy and confidence. The inclusion approach emphasizes respect for differences and holistic development. A rich programme of extracurricular activities and school life supports balance, teamwork, creativity, and responsibility, strengthening overall wellbeing. The school collaborates with families and staff to promote wellbeing and healthy development.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is foundational, with a Child Protection policy and safeguarding measures for every student. The school provides safeguarding pathways, inclusion policies, and a Wellbeing policy to promote safety and emotional resilience.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a priority at LFIGP. The deputy safeguarding lead can be reached at safeguarding@lfigp.org or marie.carlier@lfigp.org, with the protection team including the DSL and DSL Adjointe: marie.carlier@lfigp.org and sandra.kara@lfigp.org. Contact details for the three campuses are Maternelle: mathevet@lfigp.org; Primaire: navarro@lfigp.org; Secondaire: arzoine@lfigp.org. The safeguarding policy provides guidance for responses when a student confides in an adult, including being receptive, taking the situation seriously, listening, proceeding at the child's pace, clarifying facts, explaining next steps, and documenting accurately for reporting to the DSL the same day. Do not promise confidentiality, do not interrupt, do not interrogate or lead, and do not display anger.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Dubai Gem Private School provides a range of spaces to support learning and creativity. The Auditorium and Multipurpose Room host assemblies, concerts, debates and conferences, enabling performances and presentations. The Learning Resource Centre and two libraries support reading and wider academic achievement while offering safe, welcoming spaces. Six computer labs across the school are staffed by qualified teachers, enabling technology-enabled learning. Science laboratories and Art Studios foster scientific inquiry and artistic expression, while Health & Safety and Wellbeing facilities support student welfare. The school accesses Iranian Club facilities for sport, including tennis courts, a football field, basketball courts and indoor swimming pools.	Facilities overview Fully renovated in 2014, the Oud Metha Ecole Maternelle provides modern facilities for young learners. Classrooms are spacious and equipped with computers and interactive whiteboards. There are shaded outdoor recreation areas with playground structures. The site includes an infirmary, a library, a gymnasium, and a teaching kitchen. An after-school program offers arts and crafts, DIY, cooking, theatre and dance from 15:00 to 15:45. The school is located in central Dubai near the Alliance Française and the French Business Council.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities DGPS has a strong sporting tradition and its teams have a reputation for high achievement in inter-school competitions. The school has access to the Iranian Club facilities, including tennis courts, a football field, basketball courts and indoor swimming pools. This access supports a range of sports and physical education activities both within the curriculum and in co-curricular programmes. Students have opportunities to participate in competitive fixtures and inter-school events through school teams.	Sports facilities On-site gymnasium is available for physical activities. Outdoor recreation areas are shaded and equipped with play structures to support active play.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Learning Resource Centre and two well-stocked libraries support reading and broader academic achievement and provide safe, welcoming spaces. Six computer labs across the school are staffed by qualified teaching staff, enabling technology-enabled learning. Science laboratories provide opportunities to conduct experiments and develop scientific literacy. These facilities support the school's academic activities and STEM learning.	Academic facilities Classrooms are spacious and equipped with computers and interactive whiteboards. The school includes an infirmary, a library, and a teaching kitchen. The gymnasium is part of the infrastructure. The facilities were renovated in 2014 to meet modern standards for young learners.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Extracurricular activities reinforce classroom learning and give students opportunities to apply skills in real-world contexts. Students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities that stimulate creative thinking, social and organizational skills, and personal interests. Educational & Field Trips, Scouts, the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, and the Environmental Awareness Programme are among the co-curricular offerings. These activities help develop teamwork, leadership and resilience and provide a balanced school experience.	Extra curricular facilities An after-school program offers arts and crafts, DIY, cooking, theatre and dance. The activities run daily from 15:00 to 15:45.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Since 1973, Dubai Gem Private School has been a beacon of educational excellence, nurturing young minds and fostering lifelong learners. From a single building to a vibrant community, DGPS has grown alongside Dubai, guided by strong values, dedicated teachers, and families who call our school home. As Dubai expanded, more programmes, modern facilities, and a deeper focus on digital learning were added to serve a diverse, international community while staying true to our roots. Today, the vision remains simple — to provide a warm, academically strong, and future-ready education where every child is known, supported, and inspired to do their best.	History The Lyce9e Frane7ais International Georges Pompidou (LFIGP) is a not-for-profit Emirati association-run school under the aegis of the Community Development Authority (CDA), the government authority created in 2008. It is a partner of the AEFE network. The school has been established in Dubai for more than 50 years. It operates across two sites: Oud Metha for the maternelle and Academic City for elementary, middle, and high school. It serves students from the Petite Section to Terminale, with more than 2,600 pupils from over 50 nationalities.
Community	Community Life at DGPS centers on belonging to a diverse, inclusive community where students grow as learners, leaders, and global citizens. Students participate in creative arts, competitive sports, and cultural events, forming meaningful friendships. The environment supports emotional and social development alongside academics, promoting collaboration, care, and resilience.	Community The school community comprises more than 2,600 students from over 50 nationalities, reflecting a multicultural environment. An extensive extracurricular program runs daily at Oud Metha for younger pupils, from 15:00 to 16:45, including arts, crafts, cooking, theatre, and dance. Parents have dedicated representatives at Oud Metha, with a contact email for the group (representants-parents-om@lfigp.org). The Proviseure and school leadership emphasize student well-being, inclusivity, and a climate conducive to learning across the campuses.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association DGPS operates with a Governing Body and a Parent Council. Our Governors include Mr. Kevin Bensusan and Mr. Alan Egbert. The Parent Council for 2025–26 gathers parents, teachers, and the leadership team to discuss future initiatives and wellbeing projects. Snapshots from Parent Council meetings show collaborative sessions and the spirit of partnership. The meetings demonstrate active parent involvement in shaping DGPS's initiatives. The Parent Council provides a space for parents and school leaders to collaborate on initiatives and wellbeing projects.	Parent teacher association There are parent representatives at Oud Metha (Repre9sentants des parents). Contact: representants-parents-om@lfigp.org.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school teaches English, Maths, Science, Humanities, Arabic, Islamic Studies, Computing, Physical Education, and the Arts, with formative feedback, regular checkpoints, and end-of-year assessments to track progress.	Academic & intellectual The Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou has two sites: the Maternelle Oud Metha and the Elementary, College and Lycée at Academic City, with a separate entry for elementary and secondary. The school is a partner of the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) and follows the French national education model adapted to the UAE context. The school serves about 2,600 students from more than 50 nationalities and employs more than 300 staff. It reports a 100% pass rate at the Baccalaureate with 42% of graduates earning a ‘very good' mention.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The school offers a music and choir program and arts sessions, with creative languages and arts activities as part of enrichment.	Arts & creative The school life includes sports, arts, clubs, debates, and citizen projects. Junk Kouture World Final (Denim Darling) in Dublin is among the events the school has participated in. The Model United Nations (MUN) club and related activities illustrate active student engagement beyond academics.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The school teaches Arabic and Islamic Studies; Modern Foreign Languages include French, Urdu, and Hindi from Year 3 onwards.	Cultural & language In Maternelle, all Petite Section students join the Section Internationale Français Renforcé (SIFR), with three hours of English per week. In MS and GS, families choose between the Section Internationale Français Renforcé and the Section Internationale Anglais Renforcé. For the English reinforced option, priority is given to students already in English reinforced sections at LFIGP in MS/GS, to AEFE international sections, or to those with strong French comprehension. The English reinforced option may incur additional annual fees as noted in KHDA-related documents.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The school runs clubs and activities including sports teams, music and choir, STEM and robotics, and languages and arts sessions.	Social & hobbies Life at the school includes sports, arts, clubs, debates, and citizen projects, providing opportunities for social engagement beyond academics. The school participates in international events such as Junk Kouture and hosts MUN activities, expanding student interests and collaboration.
Community & service	Community & service The school runs meaningful community service projects as part of its extracurricular program.	Community & service Inclusion is a strong value; the school welcomes children of all nationalities and offers inclusive admission processes coordinated by the Inclusion Pôle. Citizenship projects and volunteering are part of the extracurricular life. The school maintains dialogue with Dubai authorities and KHDA to ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and ongoing governance.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school builds leadership and global citizenship, with opportunities such as a Model United Nations club, entrepreneurial projects, and a flexible Sixth Form course menu.	Leadership & professional Student governance and leadership development are supported through clubs such as MUN and debate activities. The overall extracurricular life, including citizen projects and events, supports leadership, teamwork, and professional skills. The school works closely with families, staff, and the wider community to foster student success.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is prioritized through tutor care, counselling services, safeguarding pathways, and an inclusive environment; physical education is part of the curriculum.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Well-being is central, with a focus on a calm, inclusive climate that supports learning. Extracurricular life includes sports, arts, clubs, and debates, contributing to physical and mental well-being. The school emphasizes holistic development through a balanced schedule and active student participation in diverse activities.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The language of instruction is English. The majority of textbooks used are imported from the United Kingdom.	Language provision French remains the primary language of instruction, with structured English pathways and regular English study. Arabic is mandatory from Grande Section (with 45 minutes weekly in Moyenne Section and 1 hour weekly from Grande Section onward) and ALE/ALM options are available for different learner needs. From 5th grade, German or Spanish is added as a third language, and in higher levels students study two languages (LVA and LVB) with an optional third; the European Section and the British International Section provide enhanced bilingual options.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching From kindergarten onward, LFIGP offers bilingual education through dedicated linguistic pathways. In Petite Section, students join the Section Internationale Français Renforcé (SIFR) with three hours of English per week. In Moyenne Section and Grande Section, students may follow either SIFR (with more English hours alongside French) or SIAR (Section Internationale Anglais Renforcé), with Arabic introduced as a regular language. In middle school, a British International Section provides enhanced English instruction, and in high school a European Section offers bilingual options. Arabic language learning is mandatory from Grande Section and continues through the lower grades.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs English language pathways are integrated from the start through SIFR and SIAR to immerse students in English alongside French. PS has three hours of English weekly; MS and GS follow either SIFR or SIAR with substantial English exposure, and Arabic is taught as a regular language. From 6th grade, the British International Section strengthens English through literature and world knowledge taught in English, while the European Section adds English-focused study in high school. A third language (German or Spanish) begins in 5th grade.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Admissions status for 2026–2027: the online application is closed and will reopen after August 17, 2026. Registrations for FS1–Year 9 are online and register applicants for the waiting list, not a confirmed seat. The minimum age for FS1 is 3 by August 31 of the academic year. All fields must be completed; applicants receive an automated registration number upon submission. 2. After registration and depending on seat availability, parents submit required documents: copies of the child's passport and UAE visa or residency page; copies of the parents' passports and Emirates IDs; copies of the child's Emirates ID; the latest two years' final reports; and a non‑refundable pre-registration fee. The documents are reviewed and shortlisted candidates are invited to an Entrance Assessment Test. Entrance tests vary by year level and include English and Math; CAT4 and NGRT may be used for older year groups; all tests are conducted in April or May. Parents are notified of the results by email within two weeks of the test. 3. Admissions are confirmed subject to the assessment results. Priority for appearing for tests is given to siblings of students already at Dubai Gem, provided they meet the entrance criteria. After tests, the student and parent are invited to an interview with the Principal; two reference letters may be required. KHDA procedures require original Emirates IDs to be scanned and the KHDA Parent School Contract to be signed; this completes KHDA registration. 4. Secondary admissions: entry for Years 7–9 requires English and Math assessments plus CAT4 and NGRT; admissions are not offered for Years 10 or 11. The school looks for evidence of academic ability and involvement in arts and sports, based on previous reports. External Sixth Form applicants must have high grades and be fluent in English; offers follow completion of the admission process. Any student admitted must meet KHDA requirements and remain in good standing with the contract. 5. SEND ADMISSION: Dubai Gem Private School is inclusive and accommodates learners with needs. An updated report from an external specialist is requested to plan need-based provisions.	Admissions Step 1. Pre-enrollment prerequisites. The KHDA age criteria apply. For entry to Maternelle, children born in 2022 join Petite Section in 2025/2026; for entry to PS/MS/GS, an age waiver is required for those born between September 1 and December 31 of 2022, 2021, or 2020. The child must be toilet trained before starting. A placement test and/or an interview may be required, payable at 300 AED; final acceptance decisions are made by the principal and the school reserves the right to refuse an application. Step 2. Enrollment modalities. Enrollment is online only through Eduka. The process includes creating the child's file, acknowledging receipt, and the inscriptions service issuing a decision. If accepted, an invoice for 500 AED processing fees plus 10% of the annual tuition is sent by the finance service; payment within the deadlines confirms admission by email. A form on Eduka collects information about the child's habits and the family's motivations for choosing LFIGP, and dossiers are reviewed in order of arrival against criteria such as Emirati nationality, staff children, siblings already enrolled, prior AEFE experience, or other curriculums. Step 3. Language pathways. In Maternelle, PS join the Section Internationale Français Renforcé (SIFR) with three hours of English per week. In MS and GS, parents may choose between the Section Internationale Français Renforcé and the Section Internationale Anglais Renforcé. For the English-reinforced option, priority is given to pupils previously in LFIGP's English-reinforced MS/GS, then to AEFE international sections, then to students with strong command of French; the program uses two teachers and KHDA fees apply as indicated in the KHDA School Fact Sheet. Step 4. Waiting list. The school opens a waiting list when applications exceed places. Being on the waiting list does not guarantee admission. Parents on the waiting list are informed as soon as a vacancy arises. The waiting list helps manage admissions and supports a smooth transition for new arrivals. Step 5. Inclusion. The Inclusion team may be consulted to assess needed supports; admission of students with identified special educational needs may require AESH support, and families are responsible for arranging and funding this assistance. The school may conduct an interview with the family and educators to determine supports. Step 6. Payments and documents. If a place is offered, an invoice for 500 AED processing fee and 10% of the annual tuition is issued; these fees are non-refundable. For mid-year entry, tuition is prorated and payment is due within 7 days; failure to pay may cancel the place and the slot may be offered to another family on the waiting list. Required documents include copies of identity papers, the last two years of report cards, and other items specified in the pre-registration dossier; a valid UAE resident visa for the student and parents is necessary to enroll.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist Registrations online are for the waiting list; a seat is not guaranteed. Priority for appearing for tests is given to siblings of students already enrolled at Dubai Gem, provided they meet the entrance criteria.	Waitlist The school opens a waiting list when applications exceed available places. Being on the waiting list does not guarantee admission. Parents on the waiting list are informed as soon as a vacancy arises.
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