The United Arab Emirates is a country known for its endless opportunities. Education is no exception, with the UAE boasting some of the best schools in the world. According to news reports, the UAE has placed first in three international indexes about Sustainable Development Goal 4 for quality education.
However, with so many options available, it can be hard to decide which route to take when it comes to your child’s schooling. And today, there are three main types of schools in the UAE: private, international, and public.
So, which one is suitable for your child? Here’s a look at the different school systems in the UAE to help you make an informed decision.
Public Schools in the UAE
The Ministry of Education manages and operates public schools in the UAE. These schools follow the national curriculum set by the government based on various educational systems. Students of all nationalities are welcome to attend public schools in the UAE.
One advantage of public schools is that they are affordable. In addition, parents do not have to pay for things like school uniforms or textbooks, as the government provides these. This privilege benefits low-income families or those with more than one child attending school.
Public schools in the UAE are also known for their strong focus on Arabic and Islamic studies. Although this part might not seem welcoming to non-Muslim families, it is worth noting that these studies are optional for students of other religions.
Nonetheless, students who attend public schools will have the opportunity to learn about the culture and religion of the UAE. So, if you want your child exposed to the local way of life, a public school might be the right choice.
International Schools in the UAE
These schools are privately owned and often follow a foreign curriculum, such as the United Kingdom (UK), United States (US), or International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.
This type of school is an excellent choice for parents who want their children to receive an international education. However, it is crucial to remember that many international schools require students to take entrance exams before being accepted. An international school can offer many great opportunities if your child is up for the challenge.
Most international schools in the UAE are in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. British international school admissions in Dubai show a positive trend, with annual enrolment growth of 3.6% for higher education institutions. The same direction is happening in Abu Dhabi as well. That is likely because these two emirates are the most populous and developed, making them the most popular choices for international schools.
Whichever emirate you choose, what’s important is that the Ministry of Education accredits the international school you select. Doing so will ensure your child’s education is high quality and meets international standards.
Private Schools in the UAE
Religious organizations or profit-making businesses manage many private schools in the UAE. These schools usually have more leeway regarding their curriculum, which can be either national or international.
Students of all religions and nationalities are welcome at private schools in the UAE. However, many institutions require students to take an entrance exam before getting accepted.
Advantages of private schools include smaller class sizes, more extracurricular activities, and a higher quality of education overall. But on the other hand, these benefits come at a price, as private schools tend to be more expensive. Typically, the tuition fees range from $3,463.84 to ,449.32 per school year.
But if you’re looking for a top-notch education for your child, a private school might be the right choice. Just make sure to do your research to find an institution that is affordable and offers the type of curriculum you’re looking for.
Making the choice
Choosing the right school for your child is a big decision. Before you take the plunge, be sure to do your research and visit the schools you’re interested in. You can also ask other parents for their opinions and experiences. The internet is also an excellent resource for information about different schools in the UAE.
Whatever you do, don’t rush into a decision. After all, your child’s education is one of the most important things you’ll ever have to consider. In the end, finding the right school for your child and your family is the most important thing.
The UAE offers a wide range of educational choices to meet the needs of every family. Whether you’re looking for a public, private, or international school, you will find a great option in the Emirates. So, do your research and choose the right school for your child. With so many great choices available, you’re sure to find the perfect fit in the UAE.