Jumeirah English Speaking School – Arabian Ranches and Nord Anglia International School Dubai are both in Dubai, about 5 km apart. Both schools offer British and IB programmes, and Jumeirah English Speaking School – Arabian Ranches also offers BTEC Qualification. Published annual fees are AED 54,129 - 104,544 at Jumeirah English Speaking School – Arabian Ranches and AED 69,625 - 105,288 at Nord Anglia International School Dubai, which puts Nord Anglia International School Dubai roughly 10% higher. Both take pupils from 3 to 18.
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Jumeirah English Speaking School – Arabian Ranches
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Nord Anglia International School Dubai
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year AED 54,129 - 104,544 | Fees / year AED 69,625 - 105,288 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (DP), BTEC Qualification | Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils — | Pupils — |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1976 | Opened — |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service Yes |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location Two campuses in Dubai: JESS Jumeirah and JESS Arabian Ranches. The Arabian Ranches campus is the largest site, housing Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form. Bus routes connect JESS Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches with routes including Al Wasl Road, Springs, Meadows, Lakes, Meydan Heights and Meydan South, operated by STS Group. | Location Nord Anglia International School Dubai is located in Al Barsha 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits in a central area just off Hessa Street, about five minutes from Sheikh Zayed Road, with easy access via E311. The school's Al Barsha address places it in a well‑connected residential and commercial neighbourhood, with on‑site parking available for arrivals. |
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Stages
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Stages Ages 3 to 11: Early Years and Primary; Ages 11 to 18: Secondary and Sixth Form. | Stages NAS Dubai serves students from ages 3 to 18, from Early Years through Sixth Form. The school follows the English National Curriculum in the primary and secondary years, with Sixth Form options including the IB Diploma Programme or A‑Levels (and related pathways such as BTEC). The campus structure aligns with Early Years, Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form, as described in the school's overview. |
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School type
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School type Co-educational day school. | School type NAS Dubai is a co‑educational, day international school. It operates as a UK/IB‑oriented, private day school within the Nord Anglia Education family, with no boarding facilities publicly indicated. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix Staff and students from over 70 countries. | Pupil nationality mix The school represents students from over 90 nationalities. NAS Dubai's own curriculum pages show nationalities numbered in the 90s across school phases (e.g., 91–95), while external reporting has cited enrollments around 2,300–3,000 with more than 90 nationalities and British as the largest group. The most common nationality is British. |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support Inclusion and wellbeing supports in place; The Oasis Learning Support department coordinates in-class support, personalised learning programmes and, where needed, external specialist services; Counselling is provided by a dedicated team. | Additional learning support The school emphasises wellbeing and safeguarding as core to its learning community, with Outstanding ratings in KHDA inspections and ongoing safeguarding initiatives. NAS Dubai offers inclusive education and wellbeing support through structured pastoral care and digital wellbeing tools; recent Nord Anglia/NGO‑level updates describe ongoing safeguarding and wellbeing programs. |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation — | Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation for NAS Dubai. It is part of Nord Anglia Education and teaches UK‑aligned curriculum components (UK/IB) rather than representing a single country. |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation — | Religious affiliation NAS Dubai has no explicit religious affiliation. The school operates as a UK/IB international school within Dubai's private education framework. |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure The school day varies by year group but generally starts around 07:30 for Nursery, Reception and Primary, and around 07:45 for Secondary. End times range from about 15:00 to 16:00 depending on year group and activities, with Extended Academic Programs offered after school. Friday schedules follow a tutor/assembly rhythm with after‑school activities continuing where offered. |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details JESS offers bus transport to secondary students only. Bus routes include Route 1 JESS Jumeirah, Route 2 Al Wasl Road, Route 3 Springs, Meadows, Lakes, Route 4 Meydan Heights, Meydan South. STS Group is the transport provider; buses feature CCTV, GPS tracking and other safety measures. For more information contact Shawn David (STS) at STS@jess.sch.ae or 056-3693149. | Bus service details A school bus service is offered as an optional transport option with additional fees. Details, routes and sign‑up arrangements are handled through the admissions process. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application fee - A non-refundable application fee of AED 500 is charged at the time of application. Tuition fees by year group (per term and per year) - Foundation 1 (FS1): AED 18,043 per term / AED 54,129 per year. - Primary (Foundation 2 / FS2 through Year 6): AED 21,699 per term / AED 65,097 per year. - Secondary (Years 7–11): AED 30,641 per term / AED 91,923 per year. - Sixth Form (Years 12–13): AED 34,848 per term / AED 104,544 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are published as per-term amounts alongside the annual total and are presented on a three-term academic-year basis. Exact invoice dates, payment deadlines and any registration or deposit timings are issued with the formal offer and invoice. - When a Personal Debenture place is offered the school deposit must be paid within five days of the offer and the Personal Debenture amount is payable in full prior to the child starting. If less than the required one term's notice of withdrawal is given, the Personal Debenture will not be refunded until the end of the following term. Debentures / deposits - A Personal Debenture of AED 20,000 is required when a personal-debenture place is offered; it is payable within the timeframe specified in the offer, remains with the child while enrolled and is refunded when the child leaves subject to the school's debenture rules. Corporate debentures exist under separate rules. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. The school operates as a day school and does not charge boarding fees. Other costs and optional charges - Uniform and uniform kit costs: charged separately when applicable; parents should budget for standard uniform purchases. - Co-curricular and extracurricular clubs: membership or activity fees may apply and are billed separately. - Educational visits and local/international trips: charges vary by trip and are billed separately. - Devices / laptop charges: where a device is required, costs or device-lease arrangements may apply. - Canteen / meal costs, photographs and optional school services: charged as incurred or via separate invoices. - School transport (bus) service: transport is provided (noting routes and availability vary and a separate transport charge applies for users of the service); the bus service is operated to specified year groups and routes. Refund information - The application fee is non-refundable. Registration and re-registration deposit treatment and any tuition refunds after the start of the academic year follow the applicable KHDA Schools Registration and Refund Policy; registration/re-registration deposits are deductible from tuition up to the allowable amounts and refunds after the academic year begins are processed in line with the KHDA refund schedule. Personal Debentures are refunded when the child leaves in accordance with the school's debenture rules (subject to notice provisions). Fee payment options (methods and details) - Bank transfer: bank name, account number, IBAN and SWIFT details are supplied for bank payments; a copy of payment confirmation should be sent to accounts@jess.sch.ae and the account reference, invoice number and child's name must be included on payment documentation. - Cheque: cheques should be made payable as instructed (payable to Jumeirah English Speaking School Br) with the required reference details written on the back; payment procedures for cheque submission are specified by the school accounts team. - Other accepted methods: schools typically accept electronic bank transfer and cheque; any additional accepted methods (for example card payments) are confirmed by the school accounts team in payment instructions. Practical notes for planning - Expect tuition to be invoiced on the three-term structure shown above; additional optional services are invoiced separately. Plan for the Personal Debenture (AED 20,000) and any registration/re-registration deposits that may be required when an offer is made. | Fee details Application and registration fees - Application fee (per child, non-refundable): AED 525 (inclusive of 5% VAT). - One-off registration / admission deposit to accept an offered place (new students): AED 5,000 (charged as an admission deposit and deducted from the total tuition for that academic year; non-transferable and non-refundable except in exceptional circumstances described by the school). - Re‑registration deposit for existing students: 5% of the school's tuition fees as a re‑registration deposit to confirm return for the new academic year; this deposit is non‑refundable and will be deducted from the total tuition for that academic year. Tuition fees by year group (2025–26 academic year, amounts in AED) - Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) - Annual fee: AED 69,625. Term 1: AED 27,851; Term 2: AED 20,887; Term 3: AED 20,887. - Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) - Annual fee: AED 69,625. Term 1: AED 27,851; Term 2: AED 20,887; Term 3: AED 20,887. - Year 1 - Annual fee: AED 81,228. Term 1: AED 32,492; Term 2: AED 24,368; Term 3: AED 24,368. - Year 2 - Annual fee: AED 81,228. Term 1: AED 32,492; Term 2: AED 24,368; Term 3: AED 24,368. - Year 3 - Annual fee: AED 87,030. Term 1: AED 34,812; Term 2: AED 26,109; Term 3: AED 26,109. - Year 4 - Annual fee: AED 87,030. Term 1: AED 34,812; Term 2: AED 26,109; Term 3: AED 26,109. - Year 5 - Annual fee: AED 87,030. Term 1: AED 34,812; Term 2: AED 26,109; Term 3: AED 26,109. - Year 6 - Annual fee: AED 87,030. Term 1: AED 34,812; Term 2: AED 26,109; Term 3: AED 26,109. - Year 7 - Annual fee: AED 92,832. Term 1: AED 37,134; Term 2: AED 27,849; Term 3: AED 27,849. - Year 8 - Annual fee: AED 92,832. Term 1: AED 37,134; Term 2: AED 27,849; Term 3: AED 27,849. - Year 9 - Annual fee: AED 92,832. Term 1: AED 37,134; Term 2: AED 27,849; Term 3: AED 27,849. - Year 10 - Annual fee: AED 99,794. Term 1: AED 39,918; Term 2: AED 29,938; Term 3: AED 29,938. - Year 11 - Annual fee: AED 99,794. Term 1: AED 39,918; Term 2: AED 29,938; Term 3: AED 29,938. - Year 12 - Annual fee: AED 105,288. Term 1: AED 42,116; Term 2: AED 31,586; Term 3: AED 31,586. - Year 13 - Annual fee: AED 105,288. Term 1: AED 42,116; Term 2: AED 31,586; Term 3: AED 31,586. Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are presented on a termly basis (Term 1, Term 2 and Term 3). The school issues tuition invoices according to the academic terms and the termly figures above are the standard term invoices. - An annual payment option is available; paying the full year in one payment qualifies for a 3% discount where the full annual tuition is paid in full prior to Monday 18 August 2025 (deadline as stated for the 2025–26 academic year). - New‑student admission deposit (AED 5,000) is deducted from the total tuition for the academic year in which admission is being sought and is non‑refundable and valid only for that academic year. Existing students pay a 5% re‑registration deposit which is deducted from the total tuition for the returning academic year. - For the purposes of refunds and pro‑rations, the value of the fee per month is calculated by dividing the total tuition fee by ten. Specific deduction rules apply depending on the length of attendance in a term (for example: attendance of two weeks or less leads to deduction of one month's fee; attendance between two weeks and one month leads to two months' fees being deducted; attendance beyond one month leads to a full term's fee being deducted). Charges for books and uniforms are not refundable; the same refund rules apply to transportation fees provided by the school. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable: Nord Anglia International School Dubai operates as a day school (no boarding provision). Other costs and optional charges - Optional additional costs are charged separately and typically include school transport, school uniforms, enrichment / after‑school activities, examination fees (IGCSE/A‑Level/IB where applicable), trips (local and international), music tuition and other optional programme costs. Amounts vary by service and student. - Transport is charged as an optional service and third‑party summaries report typical transport ranges around 6,000– AED 12,000 per year depending on route and service. Uniform costs, enrichment and activity fees vary by item and programme; third‑party summaries and local retail sources indicate uniform items and occasional kit purchases are additional (examples: individual uniform items and optional specialist jackets). Refund information (summary) - Deposits (application deposit and registration/admission deposit or re‑registration deposit) are treated as non‑refundable in normal circumstances. The school may refund deposits only under special circumstances (for example, documented family relocation) and such cases may be submitted to the relevant regulatory authority for review. Refunds of tuition after a student has started are calculated according to the attendance-based deduction scale described above. Charges for books and uniforms are not refundable. Fee payment options - Tuition payments are processed through the school's payments system. The NAS Dubai parent app supports tuition payments and is used for payment handling, lunch pre‑orders and activity sign‑ups; the school's published information indicates electronic payment processing through that system. Specific accepted payment instruments (for example, bank transfer or card) are handled through the school's payment platform and local payment arrangements. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement — | Uniform requirement The NAS Dubai uniform is available through Zak's Uniform shop in Dubai Motor City. Some items on the compulsory list are not available at Zak's and must be purchased through the NAS Dubai school shop. A full uniform list and price information are provided as downloadable documents. |
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Food options
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Food options — | Food options The NAS Dubai campus houses the Lunchbox Canteen and Terrace Café, where meals are prepared on site and a hydroponic farming space supports food education. Lunchbox provides meals daily, and a weekly lunch menu is available in the NAS Dubai app with pre-ordering. |
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House system
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House system — | House system Pupils are allocated to one of four houses: Falcons, Leopards, Scorpions, and Vipers. The house system encourages cross-year collaboration, and students participate in inter-house competitions throughout the year. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership The school is not-for-profit. It is governed by governors. | Governance and ownership NAS Dubai is part of Nord Anglia Education, a global network of premium international schools. Governance and oversight are provided by Nord Anglia Education as the owner and operator of NAS Dubai, which is described as part of the Nord Anglia Education family. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details The secondary curriculum is the National Curriculum for England. The Arabian Ranches campus houses the three schools—primary, secondary and sixth form—on one site. GCSE examinations are taken at the end of Year 11 as part of a two-year study programme. In Sixth Form, students choose between the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme or the BTEC Plus programme. The curriculum is complemented by a broad range of extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, sport, music and performing arts programmes. Individual learning is a focus within this framework. | Curriculum details NAS Dubai follows an internationally enhanced English National Curriculum from Early Years through Year 11, with IGCSE examinations at the end of Year 11. In Early Years, learning is organized around the UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework with play-based, enquiry-led activities across seven areas of learning. From Year 1 to Year 11, the curriculum is English-medium and prepares pupils for IGCSE assessments. In the Sixth Form (Years 12–13), NAS Dubai offers two pathways: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or A-Levels, with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) available for A-Level students. The IB Diploma Programme comprises six subject groups (three HL and three SL) plus Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity and Service. NAS Dubai also provides BTEC pathways as part of its broader curriculum, and a Languages Programme offering French, German, Mandarin and Spanish across the school. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results GCSE results show a high proportion of top grades with A*/Grade 9-8 ranging from 40.6% (2019) to 41% (2024), A*/A/Grade 9-7 between 64% and 70.9%, and A*-C/Grade 9-4 between 98% and 100%. IB results show average points around 37-39 across years. BTEC results indicate attainment described as D*D*D on historical summaries. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression JESS graduates are admitted to universities around the world. | Higher education progression — |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented A Gifted and Talented programme exists for primary and secondary students, with enrichment opportunities, targeted extension activities and competitions; teachers identify gifted or talented learners and tailor the learning and beyond-the-classroom experiences to stretch their abilities. | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning The school prioritizes social-emotional learning through Student Wellbeing and Counselling. The Counselling Team seeks to understand student mental health needs and offers short-term therapeutic support and throughcare to enhance personal growth and resilience. JESS Life emphasises resilience, reflectivity and empathy, with learning and enrichment environments designed to help students flourish and lead change. | Social & emotional learning NAS Dubai treats wellbeing as a daily practice rather than a one-off activity. Wellbeing is embedded in everyday school life, with daily check-ins and a focus on emotional regulation, resilience, and social skills. Topics such as managing stress, digital wellbeing, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation are explored age-appropriately across year groups. Student voice is central to shaping wellbeing programmes, with roles like Wellbeing Champions, Thrive Mental Health Champions, and Peer Listeners contributing to Flourishing Fridays. The YouHQ platform supports early identification of wellbeing needs and staff follow a 3-Go-To People approach for discreet guidance and intervention, with a planned bespoke Being Me wellbeing curriculum for Primary next year. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The school has an Inclusion policy and a Provision for Students of Determination Policy. It provides Occupational Therapy Services and Speech and Language Services, and runs a Gifted and Talented Programme for primary and secondary students. Identification and communication processes enable collaborative support among staff, parents and specialists for students requiring curriculum adaptation or personalised assistance. | Special educational needs (SEN) Inclusive Education at NAS Dubai is delivered through a comprehensive Pastoral and Inclusion Team of experienced and specialist staff. The school provides differentiated and personalised curriculum access to all students, including those described as of determination, with provision available throughout a student's time at school. The Inclusion Policy lists four SEND areas: physical and sensory impairment; cognition and learning; communication and interaction; and social, emotional and mental health difficulties. Support measures include 1:1 LSAs, staff mentors, peer mentoring, intervention sessions, differentiated curriculum, and access to resources and external professionals; progress is regularly monitored with testing and parent briefings. Specialist external services used when needed include Educational Psychologists, CAMHS, counselling partnerships, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, ABA therapists, and Physiotherapists. NAS Dubai is not a specialist SEN institution; it offers inclusive education with a dedicated Inclusion Team. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language If English is not the applicant's first language, or the applicant is multilingual, an English as an Additional Language Policy exists to support language development and access to the curriculum. | English as an additional language The Inclusive Education page does not describe EAL as a separate, named provision; it emphasizes inclusive education and a Pastoral and Inclusion Team. The four SEND categories listed do not include EAL, and there is no explicit EAL section on NAS Dubai's inclusion policy. The Languages Programme focuses on world languages (French, German, Mandarin, Spanish) and does not specify EAL support. Publicly disclosed information on EAL-specific support is not provided on NAS Dubai's inclusion pages. The school does publicly describe inclusive practices and additional language development in other contexts, but does not detail a dedicated EAL program. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing The school is dedicated to nurturing mental health and wellbeing across the community. The Student Wellbeing page affirms this commitment, and the Counselling service provides short-term therapeutic support and throughcare to build resilience. | Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is treated as a core, ongoing aspect of school life, with wellbeing described as a daily practice and not a standalone topic. Age-appropriate topics around stress management, digital wellbeing, conflict resolution, and emotional regulation are embedded across year groups, coupled with daily wellbeing check-ins. Student voice informs wellbeing initiatives through structures such as Wellbeing Champions, Thrive Mental Health Champions, and Peer Listeners, and students co-lead Flourishing Fridays. Movement and physical activity are linked to mental health, supporting resilience and cognitive performance. A bespoke Being Me wellbeing curriculum is planned for Primary to further develop emotional regulation and social skills as students progress into Secondary. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Safeguarding is a priority; inspection reports on JESS highlight safeguarding and wellbeing as a key focus and the school maintains safeguarding practices to protect students and promote welfare. | Safeguarding Safeguarding at NAS Dubai is described as a culture, not just a policy, with a dedicated safeguarding lead and a highly trained safeguarding team. Ongoing staff training and workshops ensure safeguarding knowledge remains current, and there is a strong emphasis on student voice and parental engagement to support safety and wellbeing at home and school. Safeguarding is embedded in daily school life, with open communication and a shared responsibility among students, staff, parents, and leadership. The school highlights plans to expand student-led safeguarding initiatives and digital safety measures, and to strengthen community partnerships for safeguarding support. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview Two sites host JESS Arabian Ranches and JESS Dubai Jumeirah. Three schools operate within JESS across two sites. JESS educates students aged 3 to 18 across Early Years, Primary, Secondary and Sixth Form. The environments include academic, sport, performing arts and enrichment. JESS is a not-for-profit school and has been consistently rated Outstanding by the Dubai School Inspection Bureau. Contacts are available for Jumeirah and Arabian Ranches at +971 4 3619019. | Facilities overview The school provides a modern, well‑equipped learning environment with integrated Primary and Secondary teaching spaces that promote interactive collaboration across ages and cultures. There is a dedicated Early Learning area and world‑class facilities across the campus, including close to 20 science labs, dance studios and music practice rooms. The campus features a hydroponic farming space, a 524‑seat auditorium, a recording studio and a Makerspace, plus a Lunchbox Canteen with Terrace Café. Technology is embedded throughout the curriculum with iPads for younger students, a BYOD programme from Year 3 and tools such as interactive whiteboards, 3D printers and drones. Wellbeing spaces and communal areas include the Wellbeing Terrace Space the Jungle and a Sixth Form Centre. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities Sport is a core component of life at JESS Life, with programmes designed to engage students in physical education and wider enrichment. Sport is highlighted as one of the key life areas on the JESS Life platform. | Sports facilities Two competition level 25m pools and two learner pools support swimming for all ages. Two indoor sports halls with basketball courts and specialist gymnastic flooring, plus two full sized outdoor pitches, multi‑purpose courts and tennis courts enable a wide range of sports. The facilities host inter‑house tournaments and matches against teams from across Dubai, supporting sports from football and rugby to tennis, netball, cricket and rounders. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities JESS provides education for ages 3 to 18 across Early Years and Primary and Secondary and Sixth Form. The school emphasizes Individual Learning and innovative programmes to support student development. | Academic facilities World‑class learning facilities include spacious classrooms, close to 20 science labs, a dedicated Early Learning area, and dance studios and music practice rooms. The Juilliard‑informed curriculum is used for dance and music. Technology is infused from the start with iPads for Early Years to Year 2 and a BYOD programme from Year 3. Spheros, 3D printers and drones are among the tech tools used in learning. The NAE Global Campus connects NAS Dubai with Nord Anglia peers through an online learning platform. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Co-Curricular offerings include sport, performing arts and enrichment activities; the House System and Student Leadership provide opportunities, and the Al Ajyaal Programme is part of the school community. | Extra curricular facilities Beyond The Classroom includes collaborations, a languages programme, an enrichment programme and the NAS Music Academy. Cross‑phase learning and practical projects such as the Formula 1 project with Yas Marina Circuit and the Year 10 Young Innovator Programme provide hands‑on experiences. From Year 6, students participate in global trips to Cambodia, Japan, the US, Oman, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand and Nepal, and in the UNICEF Global Challenge. The social purpose includes local charity involvement with Dubai Cares, Al Jalila Breast Cancer Awareness, the Red Crescent and The Little Wings Foundation. A Chatter Box Café provides a meeting platform for parents, and a house system (Falcons, Scorpions, Vipers and Leopards) fosters community.} code男人天堂> Wait, I included citations at end of entire string? I appended a single citation after entire fields string. The web.run's instruction says after statements; But in JSON, I can't place per sentence citations easily; It's better to add after the entire field value? The result shows both turn1view0 and turn0view0 as sources; But the last token |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History JESS began in 1975 in a small apartment near the Deira Clock Tower with 17 children and two teachers. A plot of land gifted by HH Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum enabled JESS to move to a villa in Jumeirah within a year. JESS Jumeirah evolved into a prominent primary school in Dubai. In 2005, demand for school places led to the opening of the Arabian Ranches campus, which houses both a primary and a secondary school. Together, the two campuses form two sites with three schools under the JESS umbrella. | History NAS Dubai opened its doors to founding families and students in September 2014. It began with around 500 students across the early years. The school is part of Nord Anglia Education, a global private education group that operates premium international schools. Since opening, NAS Dubai has grown to educate more than 3,100 students and has achieved strong examination outcomes, including a 100% pass rate in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in recent years. |
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Community
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Community JESS describes its community as diverse and close-knit, with a packed calendar of events and activities that support charitable initiatives and cultural celebrations to help everyone belong and make a difference. JESS Parents Groups (JPGs) are a large part of the community and operate at both campuses, bringing students, parents and staff together for events throughout the year. Being involved in JPGs provides opportunities to be a role model for children, stay connected to the school, contribute skills, and gain a closer understanding of how the school operates. Alumni and after-school providers are also integral parts of the JESS community. | Community NAS Dubai serves a diverse community with students from more than 90 nationalities. The school promotes community through a house system (Falcons, Scorpions, Vipers, Leopards) and structured parent involvement including the Chatter Box Café and a parent-led class representative system. Local and global experiences include Dubai excursions to Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Oman, as well as access to performing arts experiences via Dubai Opera and Nord Anglia-hosted festivals and STEAM challenges. Students engage in international collaborations via the NAE Global Campus and UNICEF/SDG initiatives as part of the school's social purpose. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association JESS Parent Groups (JPGs) are a major part of the JESS community and operate at both JESS Jumeirah and JESS Arabian Ranches campuses, bringing students, parents and staff together at a variety of events throughout the year. Being involved in JPGs provides opportunities to be a role model for your children, stay actively connected to the school, contribute your skills and see the school in operation. The JESS Parent Partnership Council (PPC) ensures parents are central to decision-making and school improvement; the PPC is composed of the Headteacher and elected parent representatives and meets six times a year. The PPC works with JPGs to channel parent voices into strategic planning and community initiatives. A Leading Parent Partnership Award process verified that the school, PPC and JPG demonstrated exemplary use of the awards process to reflect on and refine good practice. | Parent teacher association NAS Dubai does not publish a standalone PTA in its public materials; parent involvement is organized through a structured volunteer framework. A key component is the Chatter Box Café, a volunteer-run meeting space that helps parents connect with each other and with the school. A parent volunteer-led class representative system works with the Senior Leadership Team to support families and ease transitions for new joiners. Regular town hall meetings with the Senior Leadership Team provide a forum for parent input on priorities, policies, and events. These channels enable parents to contribute to school life through volunteering, feedback, and liaison roles that complement formal governance. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual The school offers the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award for Secondary students (ages 14–25). The MaD Award supports Primary students to develop life skills outside the classroom. Academic ECAs include languages, public speaking, and debate on current affairs. Trips and visits form part of the Extracurricular Programme to broaden learning beyond the classroom. | Academic & intellectual NAS Dubai teaches an internationally enhanced English National Curriculum from Early Years to Year 11, with IGCSE examinations at the end of Year 11. In Years 12 and 13, students study the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme or A-Levels. The Sixth Form is supported by university guidance counsellors who assist with university applications. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Dance includes lunchtime and after-school clubs with Ballet, Contemporary and Street/Commercial. Drama and Performing Arts provide a range of co-curricular opportunities, including drama productions and London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) examinations in Acting and Public Speaking. Music offers individual and group lessons on orchestral instruments, with ensembles across the school and more than 100 concerts each year. Students gain production and technical skills through lighting, sound, projection mapping, stage management and props design. | Arts & creative The performing arts curriculum is Juilliard-informed. The campus includes dance studios and music practice rooms. A 524-seat auditorium, recording studio and Makerspace support creative work across both Primary and Secondary. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Academic ECAs include language learning, with opportunities to pursue new languages. Public speaking and debate on current affairs are also part of Academic ECAs. Trips and visits provide cross-cultural learning experiences, enriching students' awareness of different cultures. Language development and cultural exploration are supported through the ECA programme. | Cultural & language Primary students study Arabic and a second world language. The second language options are French, German, Mandarin or Spanish. Languages are taught by specialist teachers. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies The Extracurricular Programme includes Sports ECAs, Performing Arts ECAs and Creative ECAs. Creative ECAs include Origami, Salt Dough, Minecraft, coding and robotics. Academic ECAs include social games such as Board Games, Chess and Card Sharks, and well-being-focused ECAs include Yoga and mindfulness activities like mindful colouring and Flourish club. There are opportunities to perform in concerts and events such as JESStravaganza and annual showcases. | Social & hobbies NAS Dubai offers more than 100 enrichment activities and clubs. |
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Community & service
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Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award includes service to the community. The MaD Award emphasizes making a difference and care, with community and global service. The Extracurricular Programme also features service-oriented opportunities through KHDA's Philanthropic Schools Award. Trips and experiences are used to engage with local and international communities. | Community & service The Year 10 Young Innovator Programme invites students to pitch ideas to tackle social problems. A Formula 1 project is run in collaboration with Yas Marina Circuit. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Head Students are selected in Year 6 and Year 12. Leadership opportunities exist across school life, and student leadership is encouraged at all levels. The House System and formal student leadership roles provide pathways for developing leadership and collaboration. The school's approach fosters leadership in a range of contexts beyond academics. | Leadership & professional In Sixth Form NAS Dubai offers the IB Diploma Programme and A-Levels. University guidance counsellors support students with university applications. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is embedded across school life, with a focus on safety, health, achievement, inclusion and personal growth. The Wellbeing programme supports mental and physical health through various initiatives. The Extracurricular Programme includes wellbeing ECAs such as mindful colouring, Flourish club and Yoga. Sport and Physical Education emphasize wellness and fitness as integral to education, and trips and community involvement contribute to students' wellbeing. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing spaces include The Jungle, NAS Dubai's dedicated wellbeing space. The campus features two 25m competition pools, two learner pools, indoor sports halls, outdoor pitches and tennis courts. It also has a 524-seat auditorium. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision English is the language of instruction. Arabic is taught as a subject; Emirati Nationals are required to take Arabic A. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available for non-native English speakers. | Language provision NAS Dubai teaches an internationally enhanced English National Curriculum from the Early Years through to IGCSEs, with Sixth Form offering either the IB Diploma Programme or A-Levels. From Nursery through Year 13, all students study at least one world language: French, German, Mandarin or Spanish. Non-Arab passport holders have Arabic classes until the end of Year 10; Arab passport holders study Arabic until the end of Year 12; IB Diploma students can also choose Arabic or their mother tongue as Language A. The NAS World Languages Programme includes Arabic, French, German, Mandarin and Spanish. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions Step 1. Complete the Online Application Form for the child's current year group. JESS Dubai operates waiting lists in most year groups, and FS1 and Year 7 are the main entry points into the school; other year groups may have occasional vacancies only when a current student leaves. Apply for the year group your child is currently in to ensure the correct waiting list placement. Step 2. You will receive an email with details on how to pay the Application Fee (AED 500 – non-refundable). After payment is received, the child is placed on the waiting list. The school notes that demand is high and waiting lists are in operation, particularly for 2025–26. Step 3. Open Entry is a route for candidates who meet specific criteria. If eligible, apply to openentry@jess.sch.ae; applicants meeting criteria may be invited to assessments, performances and interviews. Step 4. If a place is offered, follow the offer procedure outlined in the offer letter andAdmissions Policy. Registration and admission require the Transfer Certificate (TC); attendance cannot proceed without the TC. | Admissions 1. Make an enquiry: The admissions process begins by submitting an online enquiry form, sending an email, or calling the admissions staff. This initial contact allows parents to discuss their family's specific needs and provide basic background information about their child. The team uses this step to establish direct communication and explain the timeline for expected entry. 2. Visit us: Parents are prompted to schedule a virtual tour and a discovery meeting based on their availability. During this session, the admissions staff outlines the daily routines and structural setup of the school. This serves as a dedicated time for parents to ask specific questions about how the school aligns with their child's educational requirements. 3. Make your application: To formally apply, families must submit an online application form alongside the required supporting documents, such as previous school reports and identification. At this stage, a non-refundable application fee of AED 525 is collected to process the file. Following submission, parents are also invited to schedule an in-person campus tour to view the physical classrooms and facilities. 4. Assessment and offer: The school will arrange a time for the student to complete an online admissions assessment, or provide video evidence for younger students. Results from this assessment are typically communicated within one week, giving parents a few days to make their decision. Upon receiving an offer, parents secure their child's place by accepting the enrolment terms and paying an enrolment fee of AED 5,000. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships — | Scholarships — |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist JESS Dubai uses waiting lists for most year groups. The school is currently full for 2025-26 with over-subscribed waiting lists. Main entry points into JESS Dubai are FS1 and Year 7, and occasional seats may become available in other year groups only if a current student leaves; overall movement depends on departures. After completing the online application and paying the AED 500 fee, applicants are placed on the waiting list for the relevant year group. | Waitlist Nord Anglia International School Dubai operates a rolling waiting list system for year groups that are currently at full capacity. If a student successfully passes the required admissions assessment but a seat is not immediately available, they are moved onto this waitlist. Applications remain on the list continuously until a place opens up, meaning parents do not need to submit a new application or pay additional assessment fees for the following term while waiting for an available spot. |
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