Best Schools in Dubai by KHDA Rating 2026

Quick answer

The KHDA Outstanding-rated schools in Dubai for 2026 remain limited to nine institutions. These include Dubai College, Dubai British School Jumeirah Park, Dubai English Speaking School, Dubai English Speaking College, Dubai College Prep, GEMS Modern Academy, GEMS Wellington Academy, GEMS Jumeirah Primary School and Repton School Dubai. Fees range from AED 55,000 to AED 130,000 per year. Most maintain long waitlists. Parents looking for high-performing alternatives at lower fees can consider Very Good-rated schools such as GEMS FirstPoint School, GEMS Our Own Indian School, Our Own High School and GEMS American Academy.

KHDA rating system explained

The KHDA conducts annual inspections using a four-tier system: Outstanding, Very Good, Good and Acceptable. Ratings reflect teaching quality, student attainment, wellbeing and governance. Parents receive the full report through the KHDA app or the official website khda.gov.ae. Ratings are published every January for the previous academic year. 2026 ratings will be released in January 2026 based on inspections completed during 2025.

Full list of KHDA Outstanding schools 2026

Only nine schools hold Outstanding status for the 2026 academic year. Listed below in order of fee range:

1. Dubai College – AED 130,000 (Year 7–13, British curriculum)
2. Repton School Dubai – AED 115,000 (FS1–Year 13, British curriculum)
3. Dubai British School Jumeirah Park – AED 92,000 (FS1–Year 13, British curriculum)
4. Dubai English Speaking College – AED 85,000 (Year 7–13, British curriculum)
5. <<|eos|>

   Got more UAE questions?

   Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →