Sharjah British International School and Sharjah English School are both in Dubai, about 2 km apart. Both schools follow a British curriculum. Published annual fees are AED 14,000 - 32,832 at Sharjah British International School and AED 28,420 - 72,765 at Sharjah English School, which puts Sharjah English School roughly 116% higher. Both take pupils from 3 to 18.
|
S
Sharjah British International School
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
|
S
Sharjah English School
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
|
Fees / year
|
Fees / year AED 14,000 - 32,832 | Fees / year AED 28,420 - 72,765 |
|
Age range
|
Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 3 - 18 years |
|
Type
|
Type — | Type — |
|
Curriculum
|
Curriculum British Curriculum | Curriculum British Curriculum |
|
Pupils
|
Pupils — | Pupils 1,000 |
|
Typical class size
|
Typical class size — | Typical class size 22 |
|
Instruction language
|
Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
|
Opened
|
Opened — | Opened — |
|
Bus service
|
Bus service — | Bus service — |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
|
Location
|
Location The Sharjah British International School is located in the Muwailih Commercial area of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits in a busy commercial district with access to main roads and local amenities. The school is reachable by SBIS transport links as well as private transport options. Address: Sharjah British International School, Muwailih Commercial, Sharjah, UAE. | Location Sharjah English School is located on Meliha Road, opposite University City in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits on a large, green site adjacent to University City, with nearby universities giving the area a strong educational context. The address is Meliha Rd, Opposite University City, P.O. Box 1600, Sharjah. The campus location provides relatively straightforward access to downtown Sharjah and to nearby emirates; Dubai and Sharjah airports are within a short drive. |
|
Stages
|
Stages EYFS (FS1-2); Primary (Year 1-4); Lower Secondary (Year 5-8); Secondary (Year 9-12); Tertiary (Year 13). | Stages SES serves Foundation Stage 1 (age 3) through Year 13. The Primary section covers early years to Year 6, and the Secondary section covers Year 7 to Year 13. The school makes entry available from FS1 up to Year 13. |
|
School type
|
School type International curriculum school; British and American curricula offered. In Secondary, boys and girls are taught in separate sections. | School type The school is a not-for-profit, co-educational day school operating within the British curriculum. It is not a boarding school. The school presents itself as British-curriculum, non-selective, and not-for-profit. |
|
Pupil nationality mix
|
Pupil nationality mix SBIS emphasizes diverse cultural values and a cosmopolitan staff; the school notes cultural diversity but publishes no exact numbers on nationality mix. | Pupil nationality mix SES emphasizes diversity and describes itself as having a diverse community with many cultures represented. It highlights that diversity is a core strength and notes the school welcomes students from various backgrounds; specific nationality numbers are not publicly published. The admissions page also states the school's diversity is a key strength. |
|
Additional learning support
|
Additional learning support A supervisory system supports student welfare and a Social Worker is involved in student welfare; published details of a formal SEN program are not listed publicly. | Additional learning support The school states it is inclusive and does not discriminate against any student with learning difficulties, provided the school has the necessary support systems in place. This indicates a commitment to Additional Learning Needs within an inclusion framework. |
|
Country affiliation
|
Country affiliation United Arab Emirates; the school is in Sharjah. | Country affiliation Sharjah English School follows the British curriculum and is accredited as a British School Overseas (BSO) by the UK Department for Education. It operates under the UAE's SPEA framework (MoE) in Sharjah. |
|
Religious affiliation
|
Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is stated. Arabic, Islamic and UAE studies are included as part of the MOE-mandated curriculum. | Religious affiliation There is no religious affiliation stated for the school; the campus description notes it is welcoming to all nationalities and faiths. |
|
School day structure
|
School day structure Secondary day runs from 7:20 am to 2:05 pm, Monday to Thursday. EYFS day begins earlier, with arrival encouraged from 7:00 am and a 7:30 am instruction start for all EYFS pupils. | School day structure The school runs a 4-day week (Monday to Thursday). Foundation typically runs 7:50 to 13:50, Primary 7:50 to 14:50, and Secondary 7:40 to 15:40, with ECAs after school. These timings reflect the current parent FAQ for school days and hours. |
|
Bus service details
|
Bus service details School transport is provided by a private company with routes to Sharjah, Ajman, Dubai Mirdif/Ghusais, and Umm Al Quwain. Return and one-way options are available; fees are published and a 5% sibling discount applies for three or more siblings traveling two ways. Buses are equipped with cameras and nannies. | Bus service details SES uses a third‑party transport provider (Combine Star LLC) for its school buses. There are multiple route areas: Area 1 in Sharjah (University City area and surroundings) with seven buses; Area 2 in Dubai with three buses; Area 3 in Ajman with one bus. The provider and SES monitor routes via the Mamman app, and transport is subject to SPEA regulations. Morning ECAs are not served by the bus, and a Sibling Club for Primary is a paid service. For current routes and costs, contact Combine Star LLC. |
| Fees | Fees | |
|
Fee details
|
Fee details Application / Registration Fees - Registration fee: AED 500 (non‑refundable). - Entrance/testing assessment for Years 1–13 is by appointment (no separate fee amount published). Tuition fees by year group (per term and annual totals; amounts in AED) - FS1 (Early Years) - Term 1: AED 5,500 - Term 2: AED 4,500 - Term 3: AED 3,500 - Total tuition: AED 13,500 - Book fee: AED 500 - Total (tuition + books): AED 14,000. - FS2 - Term 1: AED 6,000 - Term 2: AED 5,000 - Term 3: AED 3,900 - Total tuition: AED 14,900 - Book fee: AED 1,039 - Total (tuition + books): AED 15,939. - Year 1 - Term 1: AED 6,500 - Term 2: AED 5,000 - Term 3: AED 4,400 - Total tuition: AED 15,900 - Book fee: AED 1,155 - Total (tuition + books): AED 17,055. - Year 2 - Term 1: AED 6,500 - Term 2: AED 5,000 - Term 3: AED 4,400 - Total tuition: AED 15,900 - Book fee: AED 1,155 - Total (tuition + books): AED 17,055. - Year 3 - Term 1: AED 7,000 - Term 2: AED 6,000 - Term 3: AED 4,900 - Total tuition: AED 17,900 - Book fee: AED 1,365 - Total (tuition + books): AED 19,265. - Year 4 - Term 1: AED 7,700 - Term 2: AED 6,000 - Term 3: AED 5,150 - Total tuition: AED 18,850 - Book fee: AED 1,365 - Total (tuition + books): AED 20,215. - Year 5 - Term 1: AED 7,700 - Term 2: AED 6,000 - Term 3: AED 5,150 - Total tuition: AED 18,850 - Book fee: AED 1,470 - Total (tuition + books): AED 20,320. - Year 6 - Term 1: AED 8,300 - Term 2: AED 6,300 - Term 3: AED 5,300 - Total tuition: AED 19,900 - Book fee: AED 1,522 - Total (tuition + books): AED 21,422. - Year 7 - Term 1: AED 8,800 - Term 2: AED 7,000 - Term 3: AED 5,450 - Total tuition: AED 21,250 - Book fee: AED 1,522 - Total (tuition + books): AED 22,772. - Year 8 - Term 1: AED 8,800 - Term 2: AED 7,000 - Term 3: AED 5,450 - Total tuition: AED 21,250 - Book fee: AED 1,732 - Total (tuition + books): AED 22,982. - Year 9 - Term 1: AED 9,300 - Term 2: AED 8,500 - Term 3: AED 6,000 - Total tuition: AED 23,800 - Book fee: AED 1,732 - Total (tuition + books): AED 25,532. - Year 10 / Grade 9 (secondary) - Term 1: AED 11,000 - Term 2: AED 9,500 - Term 3: AED 6,300 - Total tuition: AED 26,800 - Book fee: AED 1,942 - Total (tuition + books): AED 28,742. - Year 11 / Grade 10 - Term 1: AED 13,500 - Term 2: AED 9,500 - Term 3: AED 7,550 - Total tuition: AED 30,550 - Book fee: AED 2,047 - Total (tuition + books): AED 32,597. - Year 12 / Grade 11 - Term 1: AED 13,500 - Term 2: AED 9,500 - Term 3: AED 7,550 - Total tuition: AED 30,550 - Book fee: AED 2,782 - Total (tuition + books): AED 33,332. - Year 13 / Grade 12 - Term 1: AED 13,500 - Term 2: AED 10,000 - Term 3: AED 7,550 - Total tuition: AED 31,050 - Book fee: AED 2,782 - Total (tuition + books): AED 33,832. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard instalment schedule for the published academic year: - Term 1: payable in cash on registration (first instalment). - Term 2: payable by post‑dated cheque (PDC) — published PDC date: 06/12/2025. - Term 3: payable by post‑dated cheque (PDC) — published PDC date: 06/03/2026. - The school accepts full annual payment in cash prior to the start of the year, or the 3‑installment option by cash/cheque. Post‑dated cheques should be deposited with the accounts department. Company payments can be arranged through the school accountant. A discount is available for full cash payment on registration. - Returned cheques and late payment penalties are applied: published pages show returned‑cheque penalties and late payment charges; parents should note the school publishes both a returned‑cheque fine and separate late‑payment penalties. Transport (optional) - Transport is optional, non‑refundable and must be paid in full; bus charges are shown per annum (return and one‑way): - Sharjah / Ajman: Return AED 4,500; One‑way AED 2,500. - Sharjah (alternate): Return AED 4,700; One‑way AED 2,700. - Dubai (Mirdif / Ghusais) / Umm Al Quwain: Return AED 5,000; One‑way AED 3,000 (alternate Dubai/Umm Al Quwain return AED 5,500; one‑way AED 3,200 as published). - Transport payments are accepted in cash only. A sibling discount of 5% applies where three or more siblings travel two ways on school buses. Uniform and ancillary costs - Uniform items are priced by age group; example prices (summer list) include: girls' checked dress AED 95 (FS1–FS2), polo shirts AED 65 (FS1–FS2), boys' checked shorts AED 65 (FS1–FS2), PE kits AED 85–115 depending on year, school bags AED 85–105 depending on year. Uniforms must be purchased from the school uniform boutique and are non‑refundable. Book fees, transport fees and uniform costs are to be paid at registration. All book fees are to be paid in one instalment on registration. Examination and assessment fees - Cambridge/IGCSE and GCE exam fees (published amounts): IGCSE (O level) AED 650 per subject; GCE (AS/A) AED 1,000 per subject (payment deadlines and subject counts apply). Checkpoint fees published examples: Year 6 total AED 1,050 for three subjects; Year 9 total AED 1,200 for three subjects. Exam fees are charged in addition to tuition and book fees. Refunds, withdrawal and other fee conditions - The registration fee is non‑refundable. - There is no refund on school uniform under any circumstances. - In the event of withdrawal after registration but before the end of the academic year, a full term's prior notice must be given; otherwise fees will be assessed and failure to provide the required notice may result in liability for the whole academic year's fees. - If a student is expelled during the academic year there will be no refund of fees for the year. Book fees, transport fees and uniform costs are payable on registration. Fee payment methods - Accepted/published payment methods: cash and cheque (post‑dated cheques for instalments). Transport fees are accepted in cash only. If fees are being paid by an employer/company, the school accountant will make necessary arrangements. No published information lists credit‑card or bank‑transfer options for standard fee payments. Boarding - Boarding is not published as a service and no boarding fees are listed; the school operates as a day school with optional transport. If you require the exact breakdown above copied verbatim into your database fields, use of the published figures and payment dates above is appropriate for the current academic year as published by the school. | Fee details Registration and Security Deposit - Registration fee (non-refundable): AED 400. - Security deposit (payable on acceptance): AED 5,000 per child. The security deposit is refundable or may be used as part payment against the final term's fees provided all financial obligations to the school have been met and parents have given a term's written notification of withdrawal. Tuition fees (per term and annual) — Academic year 2025/26 - FS1 / Pre-KG: Term 1 AED 11,370; Term 2 AED 8,525; Term 3 AED 8,525; Annual AED 28,420. - FS2 / KG1: Term 1 AED 16,232; Term 2 AED 12,174; Term 3 AED 12,174; Annual AED 40,580. - Year 1 / KG2: Term 1 AED 16,577; Term 2 AED 12,434; Term 3 AED 12,434; Annual AED 41,445. - Year 2 / Grade 1: Term 1 AED 16,577; Term 2 AED 12,434; Term 3 AED 12,434; Annual AED 41,445. - Year 3 / Grade 2: Term 1 AED 17,912; Term 2 AED 13,434; Term 3 AED 13,434; Annual AED 44,780. - Year 4 / Grade 3: Term 1 AED 17,912; Term 2 AED 13,434; Term 3 AED 13,434; Annual AED 44,780. - Year 5 / Grade 4: Term 1 AED 17,912; Term 2 AED 13,434; Term 3 AED 13,434; Annual AED 44,780. - Year 6 / Grade 5: Term 1 AED 17,912; Term 2 AED 13,434; Term 3 AED 13,434; Annual AED 44,780. - Year 7 / Grade 6: Term 1 AED 22,820; Term 2 AED 17,115; Term 3 AED 17,115; Annual AED 57,050. - Year 8 / Grade 7: Term 1 AED 22,820; Term 2 AED 17,115; Term 3 AED 17,115; Annual AED 57,050. - Year 9 / Grade 8: Term 1 AED 22,820; Term 2 AED 17,115; Term 3 AED 17,115; Annual AED 57,050. - Year 10 / Grade 9: Term 1 AED 24,415; Term 2 AED 18,310; Term 3 AED 18,310; Annual AED 61,035. - Year 11 / Grade 10: Term 1 AED 26,870; Term 2 AED 20,150; Term 3 AED 20,150; Annual AED 67,170. - Year 12 / Grade 11: Term 1 AED 29,105; Term 2 AED 21,830; Term 3 AED 21,830; Annual AED 72,765. - Year 13 / Grade 12: Term 1 AED 29,105; Term 2 AED 21,830; Term 3 AED 21,830; Annual AED 72,765. - All tuition figures above are exclusive of VAT. School fees include books, medical services and classroom supplies; secondary students are expected to provide their own stationery. School fees do not include school uniform, bus transport, examination fees and school trips. Sibling discount - For families with three or more children, a 10% discount on the term tuition fees is applied to the eldest child/children. Billing schedule and payment terms - Parents are invoiced before the end of each term for the subsequent term's fees. Fees are payable before the beginning of each term (term fees should be paid before or on the first day of term). Reminder notices are issued up to three times in the first month of a term for late payers. - Non-payment consequences: students with outstanding fees from the previous school year will not be admitted to a new school year until arrears are settled; the school may withdraw a place and offer it to another child if debts remain unpaid. Students in arrears may be denied reports, transfer certificates, examination results and references until fees are fully settled. The school reserves the right to pursue legal action in persistent, substantial arrears. Any deviation from the normal payment schedule must be agreed in writing with the Bursar/Principal. Refunds and pro‑rata - The AED 400 application/registration charge is non-refundable. The AED 5,000 security deposit is refundable only against the final term's fees upon leaving provided all financial obligations have been met and one term's written notice of withdrawal has been given. There is no pro‑rata payment for part of a term and no part of the fee is refundable if a pupil is withdrawn before the end of a term. Boarding - Sharjah English School operates as a day school; there is no boarding provision. Annual boarding fees are shown as zero in external school-data records. Other costs - Uniform costs are not included in tuition. Uniform supplier contact details are published and parents obtain uniform items from the named suppliers. PE kit and specific items are managed through the school's uniform guidance. Bus transport, examination entry fees, trips and extra‑curricular charges are additional to tuition. Secondary students are expected to supply their own stationery. Accepted payment methods and bank details - Accepted payment methods include cash, cheque, bank deposit/transfer and online payment through the Skiply app (Skiply accepts Visa/MasterCard). The school's bank account (for bank transfer / ATM deposit) is held at Sharjah Islamic Bank: Account name Sharjah English School; A/C Number 0011-232918-004; IBAN AE490410000011232918004; Swift NBSHAEAS. Parents receive the invoice by email and are expected to pay before the term starts. Fees policy highlights - All fee levels are set in line with the school budget and development plan and are submitted for approval to the relevant Sharjah education authority. The school states it does not operate hidden tuition fees; all additional expenses such as uniform and required stationery are explicitly outlined to parents. The level of sibling discounts is reviewed by the Board of Governors. (End of fees overview.) |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
|
Boarding arrangements
|
Boarding arrangements — | Boarding arrangements — |
|
Uniform requirement
|
Uniform requirement Uniforms are required year-round. The Summer Uniform options include green/white checked dresses for girls in the youngest year groups (FS1–FS2) and green/white checked shorts for younger boys, with polo shirts. In older year groups, girls wear a grey skirt with a white top and tie, and boys wear grey trousers with a white top and tie; a PE kit is required for all students. Uniforms (summer, winter and PE) are purchased from the SBS Uniform Boutique. | Uniform requirement SES maintains a clear uniform policy designed to uphold the school ethos. Students are expected to wear the school uniform inside and outside of school. The uniform is supplied through two official providers, Stitches and J20 Sports; store locations and contact details are listed on the Uniform page. |
|
Food options
|
Food options The school has a cafeteria that provides nutritious meals in a comfortable setting and serves as a social hub during breaks. The site lists cafeteria facilities but does not publish the menu details or specifics of dietary accommodations on the page. | Food options — |
|
House system
|
House system — | House system SES uses a house system to foster belonging and leadership. The five houses are Lynxes, Foxes, Falcons, Geckos and Stingrays, with staff also assigned to houses and wearing house shirts at events. In Primary, house points drive a weekly assembly-based celebration of good practice; in Secondary, house tutors support pastoral care and there are termly house events and competitions. |
|
Governance and ownership
|
Governance and ownership — | Governance and ownership SES is governed by a Board of Governors that oversees policy, finances and long-term planning under the Sharjah English School constitution. The school operates as a not-for-profit entity. The Board includes representatives from founding companies and local businesses, plus a parental governor; the Principal and Heads of School serve as non-executive members, with day-to-day operations led by the Principal and Senior Management Team. |
| Academics | Academics | |
|
Curriculum details
|
Curriculum details The Sharjah British International School delivers a British National Curriculum integrated with Cambridge International curricula, structured by stage: EYFS (FS1–FS2), Primary (Years 1–4), Lower Secondary (Years 5–8), Secondary (Years 9–12), and a Year 13 tertiary section. Core subjects are English, Mathematics and Science; General subjects include History, Geography, Art, Music, Languages and Physical Education, with Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies taught as Ministry of Education subjects. In Secondary (Year 9–11) students undertake IGCSE, with three compulsory subjects (English, Mathematics and ICT) and additional options across Science, Commerce and Arts, plus Arabic. In Year 12, students take GCE AS Levels, maximum four subjects, with the option to progress to A Levels in Year 13, with typical groups such as Mathematics, English, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Business Studies, Economics and Accounting. The curriculum also includes Design and Technology and Modern Foreign Languages, and the school emphasizes university placement pathways along with a broad co-curricular program. | Curriculum details Sharjah English School offers a British curriculum for ages 3–18, with Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) in the primary years and a secondary programme through Sixth Form (Year 12–13). The Foundation Stage uses a play-based, child-led approach focused on communication, literacy, numeracy and developing independence. Years 7–9 (Key Stage 3) follow the National Curriculum of England, augmented by UAE context and emphasis on the performing arts and sport; key skills in language, literacy, numeracy and information technology are developed. Years 10–11 (Key Stage 4) follow the I/GCSE programme, with English Language, English Literature, Mathematics and Science as compulsory subjects, and four additional subjects chosen from a broad range. The Sixth Form (Year 12–13) offers a flexible Advanced Levels (A Levels) programme with enrichment opportunities and university applications support. The curriculum is delivered under the UAE MoE framework for Arabic Studies, Islamic Education, Moral Education and Emirati Social Studies, and SES holds accreditations as a British School Overseas (DfE) and is a member of COBIS/BSME. |
|
Student teacher ratio
|
Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
|
Exam results
|
Exam results — | Exam results — |
|
Higher education progression
|
Higher education progression — | Higher education progression — |
|
Gifted and talented
|
Gifted and talented — | Gifted and talented — |
|
Academic calendar
|
Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
|
Social & emotional learning
|
Social & emotional learning Sharjah British International School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a school-wide emphasis on social values, articulated in the Golden Rules and the Five Responsibilities that underpin daily behaviour. A Star Points and Reward Points system reinforces positive social and academic behaviours across year groups. SBIS Supervisors in each section oversee safety, attendance, and behavior, and coordinate with a Social Worker and the Principal to address issues, including student counselling when needed. Mind and Body Wellness is included in indoor activities, with yoga sessions, meditation workshops, and mindfulness training to help students manage stress and maintain concentration. The school provides on-site health staff for wellbeing and safety, including a fully qualified medical practitioner on campus. | Social & emotional learning SEL is embedded in Sharjah English School's pastoral care, with social and emotional learning cultivated in the curriculum; the Secondary Pastoral Care page notes a House System with five mixed houses, a vertical tutor group structure, and a Head of House responsible for students' academic and social-emotional development, plus weekly Moral Education discussions on healthy friendships and conflict resolution, complemented by assemblies and house activities. |
|
Special educational needs (SEN)
|
Special educational needs (SEN) The school does not publicly disclose information regarding the range of SEN provision, the specific types of needs supported, or whether it operates as a specialist SEN institution. SBIS Supervisors coordinate with a Social Worker and the Principal to address behavioural issues, including student counselling and appropriate consequences. A fully qualified medical practitioner is on site for first aid and medical treatment, with a school nurse, and parents must inform staff of medical conditions and allergies. There is no published detail on dedicated learning support or explicit SEN staffing on the site. Families seeking SEN arrangements should request direct confirmation from the school. | Special educational needs (SEN) The school is described as non-selective and inclusive, but there is no publicly disclosed list of the kinds of SEN the school can support or evidence of a specialist SEN department; the Visit Us page states SES is inclusive for students with learning difficulties when the school has the necessary support, and Admissions materials describe a non-selective intake. |
|
English as an additional language
|
English as an additional language Public information does not disclose specific EAL provision or programmes at SBIS. The curriculum page describes the British National Curriculum integrated with Cambridge International curricula, with core subjects including English, Mathematics, and Science, and a range of subjects such as Languages. Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies are listed as ministry subjects. The materials imply English-language instruction within the core curriculum, but there is no explicit EAL programme described. No detailed EAL staff or support services are publicly documented. | English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose information about English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision on its pages. |
|
Mental wellbeing
|
Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through Mind and Body Wellness within indoor activities, including yoga, meditation, and mindfulness training to help students regulate emotions and focus. SBIS Supervisors and the Social Worker work with students and parents as needed to address wellbeing-related concerns and to provide counselling where appropriate. There is on-site medical staff to support health-related wellbeing, including a fully qualified medical practitioner and a school nurse. The school maintains a zero-tolerance approach to bullying and documents incidents to uphold a safe environment for wellbeing. | Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the pastoral care framework, with social and emotional development emphasized in practice via Moral Education, the House System, and regular assemblies and events that foster belonging and wellbeing. |
|
Safeguarding
|
Safeguarding Sharjah British International School has an e-safety policy that applies to staff, students, parents, caregivers, and visitors, and is reviewed annually. An Online Safety Lead / E-Safety Coordinator is responsible for implementing online safety policies and procedures, including reporting channels and signposting to local and national support. The policy outlines actions for reporting online safety incidents and liaising with local authorities as appropriate. On-site safeguarding is complemented by first aid and medical staff for immediate wellbeing concerns; serious medical issues trigger transport to Al Qassimi Hospital. | Safeguarding The Whole School Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy governs safeguarding and child protection, specifying a Designated Safeguarding Lead, staff training requirements, annual review, and alignment with UAE National Child Protection Policy and Keeping Children safe in Education guidance; the policy is published October 2023 and last reviewed August 2024. |
|
Safeguarding policy
|
Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
|
Facilities overview
|
Facilities overview The school has modern, well-maintained facilities designed to support academic, athletic, and creative development. Classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and audio-visual equipment. The campus includes science laboratories, a library, computer labs, performing arts spaces (an auditorium and music rooms), art studios, a cafeteria, a medical room, outdoor learning spaces, and a green campus. Parent‑teacher meeting rooms support ongoing student progress. | Facilities overview Sharjah English School sits on a very large campus of just under 100,000 square metres beside University City and serves students from 3 to 18 years old in purpose-built facilities. The younger years are housed in a building with a Primary Library, Music classroom, an Assembly space and an Innovation space, while older students study in three buildings with specialist facilities for Science, Design Technology, Library, Art, Drama and Computer Science. The campus includes large, modern classrooms, an indoor sports hall and extensive outdoor spaces for learning and recreation. The performing arts program is supported by a dedicated auditorium and spaces for music, drama and art. The school offers a substantial sports provision, including a multi-purpose grass field with floodlights, a 25-metre swimming pool, two sports halls and professional cricket facilities with nets, sight screens and a video replay screen. |
|
Sports facilities
|
Sports facilities The school has extensive sports facilities including a well-maintained sports field, basketball and tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium. | Sports facilities The school has an indoor sports hall and two additional sports halls, with a large grass field that includes a spectator stand and floodlights for evening use. A 25-metre swimming pool and professional cricket facilities with nets, sight screens and a video replay screen are available on campus. |
|
Academic facilities
|
Academic facilities Classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and audio-visual equipment. Science laboratories are state-of-the-art and enable hands-on experiments. The library offers books, journals, and digital resources. Computer labs provide access to the latest hardware and software. | Academic facilities Foundation 1 and Year 2 are housed in the latest building completed in 2017, with large, air-conditioned classrooms. A Primary Library and Music classroom, plus an Assembly space and an Innovation space, serve the younger years. Y3–6 are in one of the original buildings with large classrooms opening onto outdoor spaces. Y7–13 have specialist facilities for Science, Design Technology, Library, Art, Drama and Computer Science across three buildings, and Sixth Form students have their own study spaces and a common room. |
|
Extra curricular facilities
|
Extra curricular facilities Outdoor activities include nature trails and hikes, adventure camps, environmental conservation projects, cultural and historical expeditions, and sports and recreation such as soccer and swimming, with camping and stargazing also offered. Indoor activities include artistic classes (art, pottery, painting), STEM enrichment (robotics, coding, experiments), literary circles, cultural celebrations, mindfulness and wellbeing programs, performing arts, and intellectual debates. | Extra curricular facilities An auditorium supports large musical and theatrical performances, with peripatetic rooms for music teaching. The Innovation space and dedicated spaces for Art and Drama also support creative clubs and productions. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
|
History
|
History The Sharjah British International School was established in 2001 in Sharjah to provide international education blending British and American curricula. The school was conceived to offer a holistic program that draws on the strengths of both curricula. The blended approach responded to the diverse expatriate population in the UAE, aiming to serve a broad range of nationalities. Over the years, SBIS has developed a reputation for excellence and become a cornerstone of international education in Sharjah. The establishment in 2001 marked a significant step in embracing the synergy between two esteemed educational approaches, reflecting the UAE's commitment to world-class international education. | History Sharjah English School was founded in 1974 by two Sharjah-based British bankers, David Eldon and David Bedford, to serve expatriate families in Sharjah. Land for the project was donated by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, and the first pupils attended on 30 September 1974, with temporary facilities provided initially on the second floor of Mahatta Fort. The new Dasman campus was completed in April 1975 and officially opened on 3 June 1975. The relocated campus near University City on the Melih(a) Road opened in 2005 to accommodate both primary and secondary education, with a new Arts building added in 2012 and an Acorn building opening in 2017. The school operates as a not-for-profit institution reinvesting income back into the school and is sponsored by H.E. Ahmed Mohamad Hamad Al Midfa. |
|
Community
|
Community SBIS defines its community as building learning communities. Indoor Activities emphasize cultural celebrations, including cultural fairs, language classes, and heritage awareness programs. Outdoor Activities include nature trails, adventure camps, environmental conservation projects, and cultural and historical expeditions that connect students with local heritage. The school maintains a calendar of events and a News & Events section that shares school activities with families. | Community The SES community is anchored by its not-for-profit status and a long history of high standards, with a strong sense of belonging among students, families and staff. The school serves a diverse, multinational student body, reflecting Sharjah's international profile; diversity is highlighted as a core strength in school materials and admissions discussions. Daily life is guided by values such as Be Curious, Be Courageous and Be You, with a broad enrichment program that supports learning beyond the core curriculum. In 2025, Sharjah English School celebrated its 50th anniversary with events including a time capsule unveiling, the planting of trees and a gala planned to mark the milestone. |
|
Parent teacher association
|
Parent teacher association There is no publicly documented Parent Teacher Association on the SBIS site. Leadership communications are published through the Letters To The School, including the Chairman, Principal, and Vice-Principal messages. The site includes a News & Events section and an Events page, indicating active engagement in school activities with families. Parents can contact the school directly via the listed phone numbers or email to inquire about any formal parent groups or PTA opportunities. If a PTA exists, it is not described in public materials available on the site. For definitive information, direct inquiry with the school is recommended. | Parent teacher association Sharjah English School maintains a Parent Support Group (PSG) as the principal parent involvement body within the SES community. The PSG functions as the interface between parents and school leadership, providing a channel for feedback on student progress and school initiatives. PSG regular meetings are held, including weekly gatherings for parents to engage with staff and discuss matters affecting their children. The PSG collaborates with the school to support parent-led activities and broader community-building efforts, complementing the school's house system and overall community life. The SES not-for-profit status underpins active parent engagement, with income reinvested into school improvements and enrichment programs, a context that the PSG helps support. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
|
Academic & intellectual
|
Academic & intellectual The school provides American and British curriculum education. It offers a pathway for first-choice university placements. The curriculum is described as engaging with clear objectives and a dynamic learning environment. | Academic & intellectual The school is recognised by the UK Department for Education as a British School Overseas (BSO). It follows the National Curriculum of England, with I/GCSE offered in Years 10–11 and A Levels offered in Years 12–13. The Years 7–9 curriculum is based on the English National Curriculum and is enriched by the cultural, religious and geographical context of the UAE, with an emphasis on the performing arts and sport and awareness of global issues. The school reports outstanding A Level results that enable students to pursue competitive degree courses worldwide. |
|
Arts & creative
|
Arts & creative Indoor activities include artistic expression through art, pottery workshops, and painting sessions, as well as performing arts such as drama, music, and dance. Students have opportunities to participate in theatrical productions, choir performances, and dance showcases. | Arts & creative Music, drama and visual arts are central to the Secondary program. Music includes high-quality instrumental teaching, ensemble work and regular performance opportunities such as large-scale concerts and school musicals. Drama focuses on developing confidence, voice and empathy, with clubs, productions and trips. Art offers two specialist art rooms and a broad curriculum with a range of media and techniques. |
|
Cultural & language
|
Cultural & language Cultural celebrations and language classes promote cultural understanding and heritage awareness. The school values diverse cultural backgrounds and seeks to foster global awareness. Cultural awareness is supported through indoor activities focused on arts, language, and heritage programs. | Cultural & language The curriculum is enriched by the UAE's cultural, religious and geographical context. Year 12 and 13 subject options include French. The school follows the English GCSE/A Level structure, supporting pathways to higher education worldwide. |
|
Social & hobbies
|
Social & hobbies Outdoor activities include nature trails, adventure camps, environmental conservation projects, cultural expeditions, and a range of sports and recreation. These activities promote teamwork and leadership, and some experiences develop life skills such as problem-solving, communication, and decision-making. The school emphasizes physical activity through sports like soccer, basketball, and swimming. | Social & hobbies The Learner Profile highlights opportunities in extra-curricular activities such as debating and presentations to the wider community. Students are encouraged to engage in a range of clubs and activities that support communication and collaboration. |
|
Community & service
|
Community & service Environmental conservation projects include tree planting, beach clean-ups, and recycling initiatives. These projects raise awareness about environmental issues and involve students in tangible community actions. | Community & service The Learner Profile notes local community projects that enable students to contribute positively to their surroundings and environment. These opportunities are integrated into the school culture as part of developing civic responsibility. |
|
Leadership & professional
|
Leadership & professional Outdoor activities foster teamwork and leadership. Adventure camps teach life skills such as problem-solving, communication, and decision-making. | Leadership & professional In Sixth Form, students can take on leadership roles and participate in enrichment activities such as the EPQ, Ivy House Award, MOOCs and essay competitions, and volunteering. The school provides guidance for university applications and aims to build a strong personal profile for life after school. |
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing
|
Lifestyle & wellbeing Mind and body wellness activities include yoga, meditation, and mindfulness training. Sports and recreational programs support physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle, contributing to emotional and mental well-being. | Lifestyle & wellbeing The strategic plan prioritises a healthy, balanced approach to life for all and commits to outstanding pastoral care. The environment is described as safe and supportive, with emphasis on well-being as part of the school culture. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
|
Language provision
|
Language provision The school teaches Languages as a General Subject within the curriculum. | Language provision — |
|
Bilingual teaching
|
Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
|
Immersion programs
|
Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
|
Awards
|
Awards — | Awards null |
|
Accreditations
|
Accreditations — | Accreditations The school provides a high-quality British education and is accredited by the British School Overseas (BSO) and the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA). It is also a member of COBIS and BSME. |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
|
Admissions
|
Admissions Rolling admissions are open. Step 1 – Make an appointment for your child to complete the relevant entrance exam by calling the Reception Team at 06 534 7722. The entrance examination is scheduled at a date and time convenient to you. The admission process is initiated through this appointment. Step 2 – The student sits the Entrance Examination at a date and time convenient to you. Step 3 – If the child passes the entrance exam, complete and submit the Admission Form which is available from our Admin team in our Admin building. The form submission starts the enrollment process. The above is subject to all paperwork, visa requirements, and the fees process being completed. | Admissions Sharjah English School is a British Curriculum, non-selective, not-for-profit school established in 1974. It welcomes students from age 3 in FS1 through to Y13. The school's teachers are predominantly from the UK and/or have British curriculum experience. The Curiosity Approach is used in the Early Years Foundation Stage, and the school presents Sixth Form results and university destinations. Begin your admissions journey with the Admissions Calculator to determine the correct entry point for your child and to review the year-group fees. Our admissions process is structured around a series of steps: 1. ENQUIRE NOW: Use the Admissions Calculator to determine the correct entry year group for SES and review the fee breakdown for your year group. 2. VISIT US: Book a tour to experience daily life at SES. The campus is a spacious green site with facilities that support a well-rounded curriculum, including core subjects, sports, music, arts and drama, and specialised ECA programs across the school. 3. APPLY ONLINE: Submit your application online. Have ready: Student's passport copy, Student's latest school reports, UAE residency visa and Emirates ID if applicable. 4. BOOK ASSESSMENT: After your application is received, the Admissions Team will contact you to book an assessment date. A confirmation of assessment fee payment must be submitted to be eligible to sit for the assessment test. 5. CONFIRM OFFER: Within 4 working days, the Admissions Team will notify you of your offer status. To confirm your place, deposit 5,000 AED (refundable against the last term's fees) must be paid within 4 working days. 6. COMPLETE REGISTRATION: Submit all required documentation: passport copy with valid UAE residence visa; Emirates ID copy; birth certificate; latest school reports; transfer certificates with attestation; immunisation card copy; sponsor's passport copy with valid UAE residence visa; sponsor's Emirates ID copy; sponsor UAE Pass; completed medical record form. 7. BUS INFORMATION: All school buses comply with government regulations and are equipped with CCTV cameras and seat belts. 8. UNIFORM: A new uniform is in development to foster belonging and pride in the school community. 9. LIFE AT SES: Academic achievement and our long history of successful higher education outcomes are complemented by a strong sense of belonging to the SES community. |
|
Scholarships
|
Scholarships — | Scholarships — |
|
Waitlist
|
Waitlist — | Waitlist — |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
Comparing more schools, or want notes and ratings of your own? Build your own compare board.