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GEMS Metropole School Motor City

United Arab Emirates, Dubai

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees AED 38,393 - 51,190
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 4104
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum
Typical class size 16
Introduction

GEMS Metropole School – Motor City is a co-educational British curriculum school in Motor City, Dubai, offering the National Curriculum for England (British Curriculum) from FS1 to Year 13 for children aged 3 to 18. The main language of instruction is English; the school follows the UAE curriculum for Arabic and Islamic studies, providing Arabic for native and non-native speakers and Islamic education for Muslim students. Modern foreign languages are introduced in Key Stage 2 (Year 3) with students choosing French or Spanish from later primary/KS2, and options continue into secondary. The campus is described as technology-rich and includes multiple science laboratories, libraries, performing-arts and music technology rooms, innovation and robotics facilities, forest-school areas, a school farm and hydroponics, radio/performance studio, a Sixth Form centre and a careers hub. Sports provision includes pools, multi-purpose halls and an astro-turf pitch plus an on-site Under Armour High Performance Institute. The school runs a Metropole Futures (gifted and talented) programme and offers extracurriculars such as Duke of Edinburgh and sustainability initiatives (Eco-Schools).

Honsho Road, Up Town Motor City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Essentials

GEMS Metropole School Motor City has 4,104 pupils, typical class sizes of 16, instruction in English.

Location

GEMS Metropole School is located on Honsho Road, Uptown Motor City, Dubai. It sits in the Motor City community and serves children from age 3 to 18 under the UK National Curriculum. The campus supports walking and cycling with a secure bike rack at the front and offers a bus service operated by STS.

Stages

The school provides a through UK curriculum from Foundation Stage to Year 13. The Infant School runs FS1 to Year 2 (ages 3–7), the Junior School covers Year 3 to Year 6 (ages 7–11), the Prep School covers Years 7 to 9 (ages 11–14), and the Senior School covers Years 10 to 13 (ages 14–18).

Type

The school is co-educational (mixed gender) and privately run. It follows the British Curriculum and operates as a through school serving students from 3 to 18.

Pupil Nationality Mix

KHDA's 2023-24 inspection records show 3,874 students on roll and 39 Emirati students (local). The largest nationality group among students is Arabic. The school presents a highly diverse student body, with public materials indicating representation of over 100 nationalities in total; Emirati students account for about 1% of the roll (39 of 3,874).

Additional learning support

Inclusion and learning support are provided through Unity (FS–Year 2), Harmony (Year 3–6) and Discovery Entry (Year 7–9); Discovery Engaged (Year 10+) assists higher-level pathways. The Inclusion Team oversees assessments and personalised learning options, and the GEMS Links Programme provides access to Speech and Language Therapy and Occupational Therapy within the school, at additional cost. 1:1 Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) can be arranged as needed, with exam access arrangements (EAA) supported as appropriate.

Country affiliation

The school follows the United Kingdom National Curriculum (UK NCfE).

Religious affiliation

There is no formal religious affiliation. Islamic Studies is provided for Muslim students under the UAE MOE curriculum.

School day structure

The standard school day runs from 7:30 to 16:00, Sunday to Thursday. The timetable includes breaks and a lunch period; primary and secondary schedules align with a UK-style school day.

Bus service

Bus transport is provided by STS Group. The bus fleet uses CCTV, GPS tracking and RFID for safety, and is overseen by a dedicated School Service Delivery Executive. Registration and route details are arranged through the school's transport team.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement

Uniforms are procured exclusively from THREADS The Uniform Store to ensure uniformity of style and fabric. The school is divided into four divisions: FOREST SCHOOL (Foundation Stage to Year 2), VALUES SCHOOL (Year 3 to Year 6), ACTIVE SCHOOL (Year 7 to Year 9), and FUTURE SCHOOL (Year 10 to Year 13). Shoes must be black polished leather; FS–Y9 wear Velcro shoes and seniors wear plain black shoes; substitutes are not accepted.

Food Options

Slices Lunch Service is the on-site food provider, offering healthy, freshly prepared meals with a cashless payment system. Parents load credit via the GEMS Connect app and students pay with their ID; a Slices cafe provides healthy dining and snacks for parents and visitors.

House System

Metropole uses a house system in which all students belong to one of four houses named Ferrari, Mercedes, Maclaren, and Williams. House Captains are elected to lead their houses, coordinate assemblies, and run internal inter-house competitions.
Fees

Annual tuition at GEMS Metropole School Motor City ranges from AED 38,393 to AED 51,190 for 2026/27.

Application fee

- Application Fee: AED 525 (including VAT). The application fee is payable at the time of online registration and is charged to process the application of new students.

Tuition fees (academic year 2025–2026) — annual and per-term breakdown by year group

- Foundation Stage 1 (FS1): AED 38,393 per year — Term 1: AED 15,357; Term 2: AED 11,518; Term 3: AED 11,518.

- Foundation Stage 2 (FS2): AED 41,884 per year — Term 1: AED 16,754; Term 2: AED 12,565; Term 3: AED 12,565.

- Year 1 (Key Stage 1): AED 45,374 per year — Term 1: AED 18,150; Term 2: AED 13,612; Term 3: AED 13,612.

- Year 2 (Key Stage 1): AED 45,374 per year — Term 1: AED 18,150; Term 2: AED 13,612; Term 3: AED 13,612.

- Year 3 (Key Stage 2): AED 45,374 per year — Term 1: AED 18,150; Term 2: AED 13,612; Term 3: AED 13,612.

- Year 4 (Key Stage 2): AED 45,374 per year — Term 1: AED 18,150; Term 2: AED 13,612; Term 3: AED 13,612.

- Year 5 (Key Stage 2): AED 45,374 per year — Term 1: AED 18,150; Term 2: AED 13,612; Term 3: AED 13,612.

- Year 6 (Key Stage 2): AED 45,374 per year — Term 1: AED 18,150; Term 2: AED 13,612; Term 3: AED 13,612.

- Year 7 (Key Stage 3): AED 51,190 per year — Term 1: AED 20,476; Term 2: AED 15,357; Term 3: AED 15,357.

- Year 8 (Key Stage 3): AED 51,190 per year — Term 1: AED 20,476; Term 2: AED 15,357; Term 3: AED 15,357.

- Year 9 (Key Stage 3): AED 51,190 per year — Term 1: AED 20,476; Term 2: AED 15,357; Term 3: AED 15,357.

- Year 10 (Key Stage 4): AED 51,190 per year — Term 1: AED 20,476; Term 2: AED 15,357; Term 3: AED 15,357.

- Year 11 (Key Stage 4): AED 51,190 per year — Term 1: AED 20,476; Term 2: AED 15,357; Term 3: AED 15,357.

- Years 12–13 (Post‑16): AED 51,190 per year — Term 1: AED 20,476; Term 2: AED 15,357; Term 3: AED 15,357.

- Sibling discount: 15% on fourth child; 25% on fifth child onwards.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Payment timing: Tuition fees are due prior to the start of the academic year and payable in advance of attendance; fees are invoiced from the time of admission. Schools may collect annual tuition fees in three instalments, due at the beginning of each term. When collected per term the instalment split is: Term 1 = 40% of the annual fee; Term 2 = 30%; Term 3 = 30%. Term start dates are identified as 1 September, 1 January and 1 April.

- Payment frequency: Payments can be made annually or per term.

Fee payment methods and bank details

- Accepted payment methods: Cash; Cheque (made out to "GEMS METROPOLE SCHOOL"); Credit card; Wire transfer.

- Bank transfer details provided by the school (use when paying by wire transfer):
- Account name: PSI GEMS Metropole School.
- Bank: Mashreq Bank, Al Riqa Road Branch.
- Account Number: 019000008377.
- IBAN: AE570330000019000008377.
- SWIFT Code: BOMLAEAD.

Refunds and non‑refundable items

- Application fee, registration deposit and re‑registration deposit are non‑refundable except in extenuating circumstances such as relocation. Tuition fee refund rules follow the Ministry of Education bylaws for private education. Refund calculation examples stated by the school: tuition fees paid prior to the beginning of the academic year are refundable less registration/re-registration fees; if enrolled for two weeks or less one month's fees will be deducted; if enrolled between two weeks and one month two months' fees will be deducted; if enrolled for more than one month the full term's fees will be deducted. Refunds are processed by cheque. A 30‑day written notification is required for student withdrawals. Non‑payment may result in withholding of reports, exam results or loss of place.

Other costs and fees

- Uniform: School uniform must be purchased from THREADS (Threads The Uniform Store). Specific uniform prices are set by the supplier and are not listed on the school's fees pages.

- Student device (MTS E‑Store / BYOD requirement): The Student Apple Device Programme requires Apple devices for Years 2–13 (iPad for Years 2–9; MacBook for Years 10–13). Devices are available through the school's approved supplier (JTRS / MTS E‑Store) with devices available from around AED 1,200 via the E‑Store; pre‑installation of the school E‑Safety package is required for Years 2–11. Device purchase and E‑Store costs are charged separately from tuition.

- School transport (bus): A school bus service is provided by STS Group. Bus routes, availability and bus fees are managed through the school's transport service and payment portal; parents register with the school's Service Delivery Executive for routes and to pay bus fees online. Specific bus fee amounts are not published on the tuition page and are handled through the school/transport provider.

- Meals, extras and third‑party charges: School meals (catering) and certain extra‑curricular charges (where applicable) are handled through the school's catering/shops and activity providers; these charges are in addition to tuition and are billed separately when applicable. The school offers a cafeteria and a catering partner is listed for meal provision. Specific meal or ECA pricing is not published on the main tuition fee table.

Boarding

- Boarding provision and boarding fees are not listed for GEMS Metropole School, Motor City. The school's published information and fee schedules describe day provision, transport services and parent fees without boarding fees; therefore boarding is not applicable at this campus.
Academics

GEMS Metropole School Motor City teaches British Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum

The school follows the National Curriculum for England with English as the language of instruction for students aged 3 to 18. The campus is organised into four phases: Infant School (FS1–Y2), Junior School (Y3–Y6), Prep School (Y7–Y9), and Senior School (Y10–Y13). The curriculum is broad and progressively builds skills, knowledge and conceptual understanding, with High Performance Learning embedded and a fully inclusive approach to access for all learners. Post-16 qualifications include iGCSEs and A-Levels, and the school operates as an examination centre for British examinations. The full curriculum includes Arabic, Islamic Studies, Moral, Social and Cultural Studies, and Values in Action, with Modern Foreign Language options (French or Spanish) in some year groups, alongside Computing, Art & Design, Design Technology, Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Eco/Forest School initiatives.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

GEMS Metropole School, Motor City supports social and emotional learning through a PERMAH-based wellbeing model, a dedicated wellbeing curriculum, assemblies, leadership opportunities (including student leadership and the Metropole Mustangs), happiness rooms, and the School Farm to promote emotional and social wellbeing across the campus.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

All GEMS Metropole schools are 100% inclusive, and the GEMS Link Programme provides on-site DHA-licensed speech and language therapists and occupational therapists to support students with SEN, with Metropole included in the initial rollout.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided by EAL specialists; students undergo individualized language assessments to form ILPs, an Intensive English Program supports those with very limited English, and progression to a Developed Program is tracked with termly progress updates.

Mental Wellbeing

Mental health and wellbeing are prioritized through a PERMAH-based framework, a wellbeing curriculum, assemblies, leadership opportunities, Forest School, and the School Farm as part of the school's Four School Model.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is led by a designated safeguarding lead for both primary and secondary with two deputy DSLs; all senior leadership have completed safer recruitment training, and safeguarding policy aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Parent Experience

History

GEMS Metropole School opened in September 2014 in Dubai's Motor City. It is owned and operated by GEMS Education and runs as an all-through school from Foundation Stage 1 to Year 13, following the National Curriculum for England. The campus was created with extensive facilities, including science laboratories, libraries, and spaces for music, art, sport, and innovation, and it has grown to a capacity of around 4,200 students. The school serves a diverse student body drawn from more than 100 nationalities and over 50 languages spoken.

Community

The Metropole community is culturally diverse, with students from over 100 nationalities and more than 50 languages spoken. The school notes that it holds many events and sessions throughout the year inviting parent involvement. Celebrations and Special Events are part of the calendar, and the Spring Farmers Market attracted around 1,500 attendees. The campus positions itself as a central hub for community life, encouraging participation from families.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The Parent Ambassadors (formerly Friends of Metropole/Parent Council) is a body of 15 parent volunteers that supports the school community. Its aim is to create a supportive and inclusive parent community by providing an interactive network for parents to engage and connect. They organize events such as parent coffee mornings, International Day, and the Winter Fair, and coordinate awareness campaigns and fundraising. They maintain connections with families through social media channels such as Facebook and Instagram. They assist with a range of school events, including Sports Day, National Day, Winter Celebrations, Book Week, and the year-end disco. A Parent Governor represents parental voice at governance; for example, Nikita Newalkar has served as a Parent Governor since 2018 and has been a key member of the Parent Ambassadors.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

GEMS Metropole School, Motor City operates a modern campus designed to support learners from age 3 to 18. The site is organized into zones for Foundation Stage, Primary and Secondary, with age-appropriate facilities and Wi‑Fi across buildings. The campus includes dedicated libraries for each phase, seven secondary science labs, iMac computer suites and portable Windows computer suites, plus spaces for innovation and robotics. Outdoor spaces include Forest School areas, school gardens and a farm, complemented by a canteen and social spaces for students and parents.

Sports Facilities

A full-size 3G astro football pitch, two rounders pitches and a 200m athletics track support sport across age groups. There are two multi‑purpose sports halls, outdoor tennis and netball courts, a 25m outdoor swimming pool with a trainer pool, a dance studio and a fitness suite. Additional facilities include cricket nets, a dojo and an outdoor functional fitness area for PE and clubs.

Academic Facilities

Foundation Stage, Primary and Secondary libraries are provided, along with seven secondary science labs. The academic spaces include iMac computer suites and portable Windows computer suites, a robotics facilities area, and innovation rooms to support project-based learning. The school also features a Careers Hub to help students plan post‑18 pathways and an Inclusion Hub to support learners with additional needs.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Creative spaces include a Music Technology Room, Art Rooms, a Performing Arts Room with a Black Box Theatre, and a Radio and Performance Studio. The campus also offers a Forest School, school farm and hydroponics area to support outdoor and sustainability learning, plus spaces such as an Inclusion Hub, Arabic Library and Careers Hub. A student canteen and parent café, along with a Sixth Form Centre and dedicated study areas, support student life outside lessons.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

GEMS Metropole School offers two main categories of clubs: Learning Clubs and Activity Clubs, designed to support academic enrichment and intellectual development. Learning Clubs provide opportunities for deeper study and skill development beyond standard classes. Key academic competition offerings include Model United Nations and the World Scholar's Cup, which require research, debate, writing, and teamwork. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is also offered as part of ECAs, combining physical activity, skill development, volunteer service, and expeditions.

Arts & Creative

The campus includes dedicated spaces for arts, including Music Technology Rooms, Art Rooms, a Performing Arts Room with a Black Box Theatre, and a Radio and Performance Studio. These facilities support drama, music, visual arts, and media production activities as part of school life. The on-site facilities enable students to engage in performing arts and arts-related projects beyond classroom lessons.

Cultural & Language

Al Noor Heritage and Culture Center offers language classes in Arabic, English, and other languages, plus language and cultural exchange sessions. It hosts interfaith harmony seminars, cultural diversity workshops, and cultural celebrations to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and global awareness. Field trips such as Art and Modern Foreign Language trips to Barcelona and Paris broaden students' cultural exposure.

Social & Hobbies

The House System creates a social fabric across the school, with four houses, House Captains, and a School Council to lead and represent students. Metropole Mustangs offers extensive after-school sports and training programs across multiple sports, with opportunities to compete in local and regional events. Student leadership roles, such as Eco Leaders, Digital Leaders, and Wellbeing Leaders, provide avenues for peer-led clubs and projects.

Community & Service

Career Guidance includes Work Experience/Internships and Community Service and Volunteering as part of preparing students for future roles. The Duke of Edinburgh Award has volunteer service as a core component and includes expedition training and challenges. Eco Leaders coordinate sustainability projects and community engagement, including involvement with the MTS Farm Shop and other environmental initiatives. Week Without Walls field trips include service projects and community engagement.

Leadership & Professional

GEMS Metropole emphasises leadership and employability through a broad leadership program, with Student Leaders across all phases. The Senior School Career Guidance program includes work experience, internships, university visits, psychometric testing, and guidance on personal statements and university applications (via Unifrog). The Duke of Edinburgh Award provides expedition planning and leadership training, while ThinkBusiness offers workshops, guest speakers, seed funding, and Dragon's Den–style pitches to develop entrepreneurial and business skills. School-wide leadership roles include House Leadership, School Council, Eco Leaders, Digital Leaders, and Wellbeing Leaders to build communication, collaboration, and project-management capabilities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The school places emphasis on wellbeing through a broad sports and fitness program, including two weekly PE lessons, house sports, and extensive after-school training with the Metropole Mustangs. Facilities support physical health and wellness, with a 25-metre outdoor pool, multiple sports halls, a 3G football pitch, outdoor nets, and a dance studio. Forest School Areas and the on-site Farm provide outdoor learning experiences, while mental health and wellbeing resources are available to students and families.
Languages

Language Provision

The school uses English as the language of instruction. Arabic language instruction is provided, including a native-speaker program taught FS2 to Year 12 and a non-native speaker program taught Years 1 to 9 (optional from Year 10 onward); the Arabic curriculum follows the UAE Government Curriculum for Arabic and Islam. Islamic Studies is taught under the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum for Muslims. English as an Additional Language (EAL) is supported with an Intensive English Program and a Developed Program, including Individualised Language Plans; the EAL policy and language support involve parent language representatives.
Admissions

Admissions

Step 1. The school has an open admissions policy. It does not admit students solely on academic ability. All applications are analysed prior to confirming availability to ensure balance and suitability for the programmes offered. (Source evidence: Admissions overview and policy on the school site.)

Step 2. To apply, you must complete an enquiry (online application). The first part of the application requires the parent/guardian's name, relationship to the applicant, a valid email address (for the enquiry reference), a contact number, the applicant's name, date of birth, and the year level being applied for. Siblings may be included in the application, and there is an option to “Save and Continue Later.”

Step 3. After submitting the enquiry, you will receive an enquiry reference number by email. You then return to the enquiry page to complete the admission application. The system allows you to save and continue later during the process.

Step 4. Once the enquiry is completed and the registration fees are paid, you will receive another email with a link to upload the required documents. The documents include copies of Emirates ID cards for the child and both parents, copies of passports, the child's residency visa page, two passport-sized photos (one child, one parent for the yellow lanyard), copies of the child's last school reports (in English) for Year 1 and above, and the immunization card with medical report. For Year 2–Year 13, a Transfer Certificate or Leaving Certificate from the previous school is mandatory to complete enrolment.

Step 5. KHDA registration requirements apply. A Transfer Certificate is required to complete enrolment for students moving from other schools. The school emphasises KHDA guidelines and the transfer process.

Step 6. Assessment tests are used to place students appropriately. Foundation Stage applicants undergo a play-based assessment evaluating emotional, social, and communication skills. Year 1 and Year 2 applicants have a one-to-one assessment with a trained staff member. For entry into Year 3 and above, CAT4 assessment tests help determine the best class placement.

Step 7. For more information, you can contact the school by phone at +971 4 550 7200. The school indicates it is accepting applications for the 2025/2026 school year and offers a Virtual Admissions Centre and school tours as part of the process.

Scholarships

The school offers scholarships to recognise excellence and potential. Recipients are required to show strong and ongoing contribution to the life of the school, to work hard, and to set a good example. Scholarships are awarded for a single academic year and may be renewed annually; in some cases, performance may be recognised without an application.

Types of scholarships include: Academic and vocational achievement (Senior School); Sports (Prep School); Quran recitation; Arabic writing; Leadership; Student voice; and Innovation EXPO (Junior and Prep Schools).

Academic scholarships require Senior School enrollment, current enrollment at the school, CAT4 in the top 5%, active enrichment (e.g., Duke of Edinburgh, IPQ or equivalent), top 10% external results or predicted top 10%, consistent contribution to learning, relevant academic accreditation or awards, representation of the school in at least two subjects, leadership contributions, and no other current scholarships from other organisations. Applications must meet most criteria to be considered.

Sports scholarships are awarded to a number of students for core Mustang Sports, worth 5,000 AED each. Criteria include active representation of a Mustang Squad, participation in fixtures/training, Year 6–9 active school status, exemplary behavior and attendance, potential representation outside school, and leadership embodiment of Mustang qualities. Applications open in January and close in April; submissions require a short video and an electronic application form.

Scholarship applications for Quran, Arabic writing, Leadership, Student Voice, Performing Arts, and Innovation follow specific criteria described on the scholarships page; applications require a completed Scholarship Application Form, copies of the last two years' reports, supporting documentation, and confirmation that the student does not hold another UAE or external scholarship. Submissions should be sent to the Vice Principal Academics, Edward Staton, at the address provided on the scholarship page.
School Events
The school has not added events