North American International School vs Rushmore American School

	N North American International School Dubai, United Arab Emirates	R Rushmore American School Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 22,923 - 39,896	Fees / year AED 28,000 - 63,000
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils —	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened 2025
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location NAIS is located at Mizhar 1, Al Khawaneej, behind Arabian Center in Dubai. The campus sits in a residential area with easy access from the Mizhar/Al Khawaneej communities. It serves relocating families in northeast Dubai and surrounding neighborhoods.	Location Rushmore American School is located in Al Suyouh, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits in a residential area with access to major highways, supporting commutes from across Sharjah and neighboring emirates. The neighbourhood includes family-friendly amenities, parks, and nearby shopping options such as Sahara Centre.
Stages	Stages Kindergarten (KG1 and KG2), Elementary (Grades 1-5), Middle School (Grades 6-8), and High School (Grades 9-12).	Stages Rushmore American School provides a K-12 program. The school includes a Pre-KG/KG section, an Elementary School, a Middle School, and a High School. The Pre-K section is on the ground floor, while middle and high school facilities are on the first floor, including laboratories and music rooms.
School type	School type Co-educational.	School type The school operates as a co-educational environment for students up to Grade 4. Beginning in Grade 5, learning is segregated by gender.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body is around 475–502 students. Emirati pupils make up about 32% of the population and international students account for roughly 68%. A detailed nationality breakdown by country is not publicly published.	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support NAIS operates an Inclusion Department and is an inclusive school. It supports a range of learning needs, including students with disabilities (students of determination), English Language Learners, and gifted and talented students.	Additional learning support Rushmore American School includes provisions for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). The admissions policies state an inclusive approach and that SEN students are integrated into regular classes with appropriate support. The campus includes dedicated spaces for Special Education.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school has no formal country affiliation; it operates an American program based on Common Core English/Math and California standards.	Country affiliation The curriculum is American-based, aligned with Massachusetts standards.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliation. (Islamic Education is provided as part of UAE Ministry standards where applicable.)	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is indicated in official materials.
School day structure	School day structure The school day runs from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM Monday to Thursday; on Fridays, classes finish at 11:30 AM; Saturdays operate 9:00 AM–1:00 PM; Sundays are closed.	School day structure School timings run Monday through Thursday. Pre-KG to KG2 operate 7:30am–1:50pm; Grades 1–7 operate 7:30am–2:50pm. A Breakfast Club option starts at 7:00am.
Bus service details	Bus service details NAIS offers a school bus service via Regal Bus Transport. Buses are GPS-tracked and fitted with seat belts and CCTV. Routes cover key areas across Dubai with customized stops. Registration is via the school transport form or by contacting the transport team at anees.k@naischool.ae or 0507520628.	Bus service details Rushmore American School announced partnerships to deliver quality uniforms, transport, and catering ahead of its September 2025 opening, with transport arrangements to be confirmed.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and registration fees - Entrance / assessment fee: AED 200 (non-refundable). - Registration fee (one-time, non-refundable): AED 500. - Registration advance / deposit: AED 2,000. This amount is deducted from the first tuition instalment and is non-refundable if the student does not join. - Transfer fee (for transfers from other Dubai schools): AED 120. - Returned cheque fee: AED 200 plus 5% VAT (the school's published policy applies if a cheque is returned). Tuition fees by year group (annual and per-term amounts) - KG1: Annual tuition payable (after listed discount/adjustments) AED 22,873. Per term (equal three-instalment split): approximately AED 7,624 per term. - KG2: Annual tuition payable AED 22,873. Per term: approximately AED 7,624 per term. - Grade 1: Annual tuition payable AED 24,442. Per term: approximately AED 8,147 per term. - Grade 2: Annual tuition payable AED 24,442. Per term: approximately AED 8,147 per term. - Grade 3: Annual tuition payable AED 24,642. Per term: approximately AED 8,214 per term. - Grade 4: Annual tuition payable AED 24,642. Per term: approximately AED 8,214 per term. - Grade 5: Annual tuition payable AED 24,642. Per term: approximately AED 8,214 per term. - Grade 6: Annual tuition payable AED 24,792. Per term: approximately AED 8,264 per term. - Grade 7: Annual tuition payable AED 28,297. Per term: approximately AED 9,432 per term. - Grade 8: Annual tuition payable AED 28,297. Per term: approximately AED 9,432 per term. - Grade 9: Annual tuition payable AED 32,922. Per term: approximately AED 10,974 per term. - Grade 10: Annual tuition payable AED 32,922. Per term: approximately AED 10,974 per term. - Grade 11: Annual tuition payable AED 36,646. Per term: approximately AED 12,215 per term. - Grade 12: Annual tuition payable AED 36,646. Per term: approximately AED 12,215 per term. (Note: the per-term figures above are the annual listed amount divided into three equal instalments; the school structures tuition payment as three instalments and requires the first instalment at acceptance.) Billing schedule and payment terms - Confirmation/payment at enrolment: the non-refundable registration fee and the first term's tuition are required to confirm a place (payment timing is immediate after offer acceptance). The registration advance is deducted from the first instalment. - Instalments: tuition is set up to be paid in three instalments over the academic year. The school applies any advertised sibling discounts to the applicable instalment as published in its fee policy. - VAT: published fee listings are shown excluding VAT where indicated. - Penalties and banking: a returned-cheque charge applies (AED 200 + 5% VAT as published); cheque payment terms and other payment conditions are set by the school. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. North American International School operates as a day school; no boarding fee schedule is published. Other costs and recurring fees - Examination fees (published per grade): examples include KG1 AED 300, KG2 AED 350, Grades 1–2 AED 350, Grades 3–9 between AED 470 and AED 520 for specific grades, and Grades 11–12 AED 370 as published. These examination fees are charged in addition to tuition. - Transport (school bus): published bus fees vary by route and are invoiced by term. Examples of published transport charges by route: Mirdif/Mizhar/Muhaisnah-1 total AED 3,500 (AED 1,400 first term, AED 1,050 second term, AED 1,050 third term); other routes have higher totals (for example, International City / Ras Al Khor total AED 6,000, Bur Dubai / Karama total AED 6,400). Transport is provided via the school's bus service partner and is billed per term as shown. - Uniforms and textbooks: a school uniform is required; uniform and textbook costs are charged separately and are not listed as fixed one-line items in the published tuition table. Additional optional costs (extracurricular activities, trips, meals, insurance or specific subject/material charges) are billed separately as applicable. Refund information - Registration fee: non-refundable. - Registration advance: AED 2,000 is deducted from the first instalment and is non-refundable if the student does not join. - Other refunds and withdrawal terms: the school's published fee policy sets conditions for refunds and withdrawals (examples above reflect the published non-refundable items and returned-cheque penalties). Specific refund calculations for mid-year withdrawals or early contract termination are governed by the school's fee policy and published terms. Fee payment options - Cheque payment is an accepted payment method in published materials; the school publishes a returned-cheque charge (AED 200 + 5% VAT). Other payment channels (bank transfer, credit/debit card, online payment) are commonly used across schools but are not specifically itemised in the published fee table for NAIS; parents should follow the school's invoicing instructions for the available payment channels. Sibling discount - Sibling discount policy (published): 2nd student 7% discount, 3rd student 10% discount, 4th and subsequent students 15% discount. Published notes indicate how and when the discount is applied in the payment schedule.	Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application fee: AED 500 due at the time of submitting the application. This fee is refundable if the school does not offer a place; it is non-refundable if the school offers a place and the family chooses not to accept it; it is not deductible from total tuition if a place is accepted. - Registration deposit: AED 500 payable after accepting an offer to secure a place. This deposit is non-refundable and is adjustable against the first term's tuition. Tuition fees (annual and per-term amounts by year group) - Pre-K: Annual AED 35,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 26,000 — Per term (annual ÷ 3): AED 8,666 Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 11,666. - KG 1: Annual AED 38,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 30,000 — Per term: AED 10,000. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 12,666. - KG 2: Annual AED 38,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 30,000 — Per term: AED 10,000. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 12,666. - Grade 1: Annual AED 45,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 39,600 — Per term: AED 13,200. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 15,000. - Grade 2: Annual AED 45,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 39,600 — Per term: AED 13,200. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 15,000. - Grade 3: Annual AED 45,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 39,600 — Per term: AED 13,200. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 15,000. - Grade 4: Annual AED 45,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 39,600 — Per term: AED 13,200. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 15,000. - Grade 5: Annual AED 45,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 39,600 — Per term: AED 13,200. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 15,000. - Grade 6: Annual AED 55,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 48,400 — Per term: AED 16,133. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 18,333. - Grade 7: Annual AED 55,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 48,400 — Per term: AED 16,133. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 18,333. - Grade 8: Annual AED 55,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 52,250 — Per term: AED 17,416. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 18,333. - Grade 9: Annual AED 55,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 55,000 — Per term: AED 18,333. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 18,333. - Grade 10: Annual AED 63,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 63,000 — Per term: AED 21,000. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 21,000. - Grade 11: Annual AED 63,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 63,000 — Per term: AED 21,000. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 21,000. - Grade 12: Annual AED 63,000 (SPEA approved). Founding-family rate: Annual AED 63,000 — Per term: AED 21,000. Per term (SPEA approved ÷ 3): AED 21,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Application fee is payable at application submission; registration deposit is payable after accepting an offer and is adjustable against the first term's tuition. All published fees are stated as annual amounts; the school's fee notes reference the first term specifically. All fees are subject to 5% VAT. Early-payment and sibling discounts are published (5% early-payment discount for tuition paid in full; sibling discounts of 5%, 10% and 15% for second, third and fourth-or-more children respectively). Other costs and additional fees - Uniforms, transportation (school bus) and optional extra-curricular activities are treated as separate charges and may incur additional fees; specific amounts for these items are not published in the school's fee schedule. Exam, consumable or specialist-program costs may also be charged separately. Refunds and adjustments - Application fee: refundable only if the school does not offer a place; non-refundable if a place is offered and declined. Registration deposit: non-refundable but adjustable against the first term's tuition. Other refund terms specific to tuition instalments or late withdrawals are not published in the fee summary.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options —	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system Rushmore American School divides students into houses, each with a unique name, colors, and symbols. House leadership includes House Captains and Vice Captains, and students compete in inter-house activities across academics, sports, arts, and community service, with the House Cup awarded to the winning house. Regular house meetings foster belonging and leadership across grade levels.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership Rushmore American School is governed by a Board of Governors. The founders are His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmad bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Shaban Abousido, Samer Sayegh, and Murad Al Otaibi. Mayfair Education provides comprehensive leadership and management services to the school.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details NAIS offers an American program across four stages: Kindergarten (KG1-2), Elementary (Grades 1-5), Middle (Grades 6-8), and High School (Grades 9-12). The English and Mathematics follow the Common Core Standards, while other subjects draw on the California State Standards; Arabic and Islamic Education align with Ministry Standards, with UAE National Education integrated into Social Studies. In Elementary, there are diagnostic tests at the start of each subject and an exit assessment at year-end; the program follows the Carolina National Standards in all subjects. The school maintains an inclusive approach, supporting students with diverse learning needs, including English Language Learners and those who are gifted and talented. In High School, Honors courses are available for Grades 9-10 and AP courses run from Grade 10 through 12, with more than 10 AP options for college credit.	Curriculum details The school offers a K-12 American curriculum located in Sharjah's Al Suyoh. The elementary program uses a Massachusetts-based curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning. The broader program is technology-driven and learner-centered, with emphasis on STEM, ethics, and cultural understanding. The school employs a technology-rich environment with Chromebooks and Google's suite to support personalized learning and digital citizenship. The high school program is university-preparatory and emphasizes leadership and intellectual growth.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio Not publicly available.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results Not publicly reported.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Not publicly specified.	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented NAIS provides inclusive education and supports gifted and talented students through its Inclusion Department.	Gifted and talented The Emirati Stars Program identifies and nurtures Emirati talents across academics, arts, and sports.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The 2023-2024 KHDA inspection report assesses North American International School's wellbeing provision as weak. The school has two guidance counsellors who provide student support in addition to general pastoral care. Governors and leaders are described as having a limited understanding of wellbeing principles, and there is no cohesive, whole‑school wellbeing vision yet. Data collection and ongoing monitoring of wellbeing are underdeveloped, and wellbeing initiatives are not consistently embedded across the curriculum. Staff and students can access support from teachers and counsellors, but opportunities for student leadership of wellbeing initiatives are limited, and wellbeing is not at the heart of school life. The inspection dates were November 6–10, 2023.	Social & emotional learning Rushmore American School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a holistic, learner‑centered approach that emphasizes personal growth, collaboration, and ethics. The Student Council represents student interests, promotes welfare, and enhances the school experience with leadership development, community building, service and outreach, and student‑driven initiatives. The House System fosters a sense of belonging and leadership across grade levels and supports cultural appreciation and teamwork. Life at Rushmore describes a holistic educational journey that develops students academically, socially, and emotionally. The Achievement Program states the school provides high‑quality pastoral care, support and guidance by listening to the concerns of children and parents, contributing to a safe, value‑based environment for learners.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) As of the 2023-2024 KHDA inspection, 49 students are recorded as students of determination at the school. There are two guidance counsellors listed to support students. A key recommendation is to ensure that all students of determination are fully supported in lessons and that teachers take into account students' individual education plans (IEPs). The DSIB notes care and support for students of determination but highlights variability across phases and calls for stronger ongoing support. The inspection does not describe the school as a specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) There are dedicated rooms for Special Education on campus. The Achievement Program explains a duty to provide appropriate SEN provision, make reasonable adjustments for disabled students and medical conditions, and ensure access to a broad and balanced curriculum. It also emphasizes inclusive classrooms where students with SEN are integrated rather than routinely segregated. The program notes that facilities support disabled students and that inclusion is a key aim, with adaptations to ensure equal access to resources. Overall, the school describes adaptive curricula and targeted SEN provision to meet diverse needs.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The KHDA inspection does not publicly disclose information regarding English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision at North American International School. English is the language of instruction at the school. English attainment is described as Acceptable across phases (KG, Elementary, Middle, High). The inspection does not detail a formal, named EAL program or dedicated EAL staff.	English as an additional language The site emphasizes linguistic and cultural diversity, including the Arabic language and Islamic education. A dedicated EAL program or staff is not publicly disclosed on the site. The information publicly available does not describe a separate or explicit English as an Additional Language provision beyond general inclusive practices.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is embedded within the broader wellbeing provisions assessed by KHDA, but the 2023-2024 inspection finds overall wellbeing provision to be weak. There are two guidance counsellors and reported access to counselling staff, yet data collection and monitoring of wellbeing are underdeveloped. The inspection notes limited student and parent engagement in wellbeing initiatives and a lack of a cohesive, school-wide wellbeing strategy. It also highlights that wellbeing is not central to school life, despite some awareness of available support among staff and students. Inspection details: November 6–10, 2023.	Mental wellbeing Recreation facilities and vibrant social spaces are designed to support students' mental and physical well‑being, including ample spaces for physical activity and social interaction. The Achievement Program notes high‑quality pastoral care, with ongoing support and guidance, listening to concerns of children and parents to help students feel valued and secure. Life at Rushmore reinforces a holistic focus on emotional, social, and academic development within a learner‑centered framework. The House System and Student Council further contribute to a sense of belonging and peer support, which underpin positive mental wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding and child protection are identified as high priorities in the 2023-2024 KHDA inspection. The school's policies and procedures to ensure safety and security of students are documented and communicated to staff, students, and parents. The inspection notes that safeguarding, child protection and anti-bullying are prioritized, and there are arrangements for health and safety and premises maintenance. The DSIB report also records the presence of a safeguarding and wellbeing team and staff efforts to promote healthy behavior and supervise health needs. Overall, health and safety are rated Good, and safeguarding-related provisions are highlighted as a focus area for ongoing development. Inspection dates: 6–10 November 2023.	Safeguarding Pastoral care and a safe environment are highlighted as core safeguarding features in the Achievement Program, which describes providing a safe, healthy school with high‑quality pastoral support and listening to concerns of children and parents. The program also describes duties to provide appropriate SEN provision and to make reasonable adjustments to support disabled students and medical conditions. Inclusive classrooms and accessible facilities for students with disabilities are emphasized as part of safeguarding and welfare. Together, these elements indicate safeguarding and child‑protection considerations are addressed through holistic wellbeing, inclusion, and student support policies.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus is located at Mizhar 1, Al Khawaneej, Behind Arabian Centre – Dubai. The school operates a 12-year system.	Facilities overview Rushmore American School has Pre-K through High School facilities designed for flexible, technology-enabled learning. The Pre-K area includes classrooms with indoor play areas, dedicated toilet and changing rooms, sleeping areas, and a fully equipped kitchen. The kindergarten area provides classrooms, breakout spaces, and shaded outdoor learning areas. Elementary spaces are on the ground floor, with accessible outdoor play and learning spaces, while middle and high school facilities are on the first floor and include laboratories and music rooms. The school also provides dedicated rooms for Music, Art, Special Education, and libraries for both elementary and middle/high school students. Multipurpose halls, a gym, a swimming pool, and outdoor learning spaces support a wide range of activities, all within safe, attractive, and environmentally friendly facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities Two versatile multipurpose halls and a spacious gym serve physical education, performances, and indoor recreation. The gym can be sectioned to accommodate multiple groups, and it includes built-in seating, storage, and changing rooms, along with offices and toilets for staff and students. A swimming pool supports aquatic activities, while outdoor spaces provide additional learning and recreation opportunities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities —	Academic facilities Middle and high school facilities include laboratories on the first floor, and there are dedicated rooms for Music and Art, as well as Special Education and libraries for both elementary and middle/high school students. The campus emphasizes 21st-century skills with technology-rich classrooms and digital learning resources.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities —	Extra curricular facilities Rushmore supports extracurricular engagement through a House System that fosters leadership and teamwork. The Emirati Stars Program identifies and nurtures talents across academics, arts, and sports. The school offers sports programs and arts activities as part of its global-citizenship focus.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History NAIS Dubai was established in 2007 by Mr. and Mrs. Taher, starting with a small number of students. It has grown into a multinational community with around 56 nationalities. The school is located at Mizhar 1, Al Khawaneej, behind the Arabian Center in Dubai. NAIS follows the American program with Common Core Standards for English and Mathematics, and California State Standards for other subjects; Arabic and Islamic Education align with UAE Ministry standards, and French is offered from Grade 5. The school has recently come under new management with a significant change in approach and staff.	History Rushmore American School was founded in 2025 by a group of co-founders: His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmad bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Shaban Abousido, Samer Sayegh, and Murad Al Otaibi. The school announced plans to open in September 2025 and established its base in Al Suyoh, Sharjah. A Governing Body with a Board of Governors provides strategic direction and policy oversight for the institution. Emma Baker was named Founding Principal in 2025, and the school held an official grand opening in November 2025. The first day of operation for the initial term occurred in January 2026.
Community	Community NAIS Dubai presents a community page featuring parent voices, affirming a sense of community and ongoing engagement. A parent testimonial describes the school as professional, caring, and well organized. The student body is multinational, with around 56 nationalities represented. Parents are encouraged to stay involved through the school portal and regular communications with teachers.	Community Rushmore American School is located in Al Suyoh, Sharjah, and emphasizes a learner-centered, technology-enhanced education. It operates a House System that divides students into houses with leaders and inter-house competitions to foster belonging and leadership. The Emirati Stars Program identifies Emirati talent for targeted mentorship and enrichment. The November 2025 inauguration featured UAE national performances and a facilities tour, reflecting active community engagement and national identity.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association NAIS maintains a formal PTA that holds three meetings per year. PTA meetings are integrated into the school calendar to discuss programs and support student learning. Parents are encouraged to stay in touch with teachers through the school portal. An orientation for parents is held in September to guide families on how to support their children's progress. The leadership emphasizes parental involvement as a key component of the NAIS community, with active participation supported by school communications.	Parent teacher association Rushmore American School's Parent Council serves as the formal parent-teacher association, focusing on collaboration between families and the school to enhance the educational environment. It supports collaborative decision-making, improved communication, and parent involvement initiatives, including events, workshops, and social gatherings. The council promotes advocacy for student success and works to build a connected school community. Parents are encouraged to participate in open forums and committees to inform policies and practices, and to provide feedback and suggestions for ongoing improvement.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual —	Academic & intellectual The school offers a K-12 American curriculum. The curriculum is technology-driven and learner-centered, with emphasis on STEM, ethics, and cultural understanding. In elementary grades, the program follows a Massachusetts-based curriculum. In high school, the curriculum is university-preparatory and emphasizes leadership and intellectual growth.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative —	Arts & creative The school offers a comprehensive arts curriculum aligned with Massachusetts standards to enhance creativity, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. The arts program spans from early learning through high school, fostering expressive development.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language Language Clubs offer Spanish, French, and Mandarin. There is a Cultural Exchange Club and an International Film Club that promote cultural understanding. Global citizenship and creative writing are part of the program.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies —	Social & hobbies Co-curricular activities include school council, sports teams, math clubs, science clubs, chess clubs, talent shows, spelling bees, writing competitions, debates, school newspapers, drama productions, musical performances, and art shows.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional There is a Student Council. The House System fosters leadership and team spirit. The Emirati Stars Program identifies and nurtures Emirati talents across academics, arts, and sports.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing —	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports programs and activities promote lifelong health, resilience, and personal growth. Wellness offerings include yoga and mindfulness, nutrition and cooking, fitness clubs, mental health awareness, and outdoor adventure.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision —	Language provision Arabic language is emphasized as part of the Rushmore Learner program. Islamic education is included as part of the UAE context. The school uses an American curriculum with state standards and Massachusetts standards referenced in Arts. The school implements 21st-century learning, digital literacy, and future skills, with technology integrated through Chromebooks and Google's suite.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations Rushmore American School is pursuing accreditation from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions The North American International School (NAIS) in Dubai admits students of any race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally available to students. The admissions process includes an interview for KG1 with the Principal/Head of Section, and an assessment test in Math and English for KG2 to Grade 12. Applications are reviewed by admissions staff and the Principal's decision is final. After documentation is received, families are notified within a few days whether the applicant meets admission standards. Upon acceptance, a one-time non-refundable registration is due within five days to reserve a place for the following school year, and the first tuition payment must be received prior to the deadline to secure the place. If admission is granted but no place is available, the registration fee can be paid to place the student's name on the waiting list; NAIS will contact the family when a place becomes available. Enrollment is conditional upon the student successfully completing the current school year and submitting final grades; the student file must be complete before the first day of school. NAIS operates a 12‑year program, so applicants should review age requirements before applying. Admission office hours are Saturday–Thursday 8:00 AM–1:00 PM. Documents to submit include four passport-size photos; two birth certificates (KG1–Grade 1); original Transfer Certificate (KG2–Grade 12); progress report; two copies of passports; two copies of residency visas; two copies of Emirates IDs (student and parents); health card copy; vaccination card copy; and a transportation form if required. Transfer certificate requirements depend on where the previous school is located: Dubai schools require a stamp and signature with the TC in Arabic; other emirates require a stamped Arabic TC; schools outside the UAE require an Arabic TC and attestation from the Ministry of Education, UAE Embassy, and related authorities. There are links to Register Here and to the Fee Schedule.	Admissions The school is located in Sharjah, Al Suyoh, and offers a K-12 American curriculum focused on learner growth, creativity, and technology-enhanced learning. It emphasises ethical conduct, cultural understanding, and preparing students to become compassionate global citizens in a technology-rich environment.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships Fees start from AED 26,000 for the inaugural year, with an application fee of AED 500. Founding family fees for 2026/27 are published by grade level.
Waitlist	Waitlist If admission is granted but no place is available, the registration fee can be paid to place the student's name on the waiting list; NAIS will contact the family when a place becomes available.	Waitlist The school is opening in September 2025, with enrolment planned for Pre-K through Grade 7 in its inaugural year and expansion to Grades 8–12 in a future year.
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