Which curriculum is cheapest in the UAE?

Indian CBSE schools start from AED 10,000 per year, the lowest option listed.

Do schools allow monthly fee payments?

Most offer three instalments. Monthly plans are rare and may add a small surcharge.

Are there extra fees besides tuition?

Yes. Expect transport, books, uniforms and activities to add AED 8,000 to 17,000 yearly.

How early should I apply for 2026 entry?

Submit applications between October and January for the following September start.

Sending Kids to UAE School: Curriculum and Cost Guide 2026

Choosing a Curriculum in the UAE

Expat families in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah choose from five main curricula. Each follows a different teaching style and university pathway. Fees vary widely, so compare both the approach and the annual cost before you commit.

British Curriculum

Most popular option. Schools follow the National Curriculum for England and prepare students for IGCSE and A-Levels. Strong focus on core subjects plus sports and arts. Entry often requires CAT4 or GL assessments.

Typical annual fees: AED 35,000 to 85,000
Key exam boards: Cambridge, Edexcel, AQA
Best for: UK, Australia or Canada university routes

American Curriculum

Follows Common Core standards and awards a US High School Diploma. Students can take SAT, ACT and AP exams. Many schools add Arabic as a second language to meet KHDA or ADEK rules.

Typical annual fees: AED 40,000 to 90,000
Accreditation: NEASC, Middle States or Cognia
Best for: US or Canadian university applications

IB Curriculum

Full continuum from PYP to DP. Students complete extended essays, CAS projects and final exams marked externally. Recognised by universities worldwide.

Typical annual fees: AED 55,000 to 110,000
IB fees paid directly to the IB plus school tuition
Best for: flexible global university choices

Indian Curriculum

CBSE or ICSE boards. Strong emphasis on maths, science and rote learning. CBSE schools usually cost less and follow the Indian academic calendar.

Typical annual fees: AED 10,000 to 35,000
Exams: CBSE Grade 10 and 12 board exams
Best for: Indian university entrances or budget-conscious families

French Curriculum

Follows the French Ministry of Education programme and awards the Baccalauréat. Arabic and English are taught from early years. Mainly offered in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Typical annual fees: AED 45,000 to 75,000
Recognised by French and many European universities
Best for: families planning a return to France or Europe

Additional Costs to Budget

Most schools charge a non-refundable registration fee of AED 500 to 2,000. Transport ranges from AED 6,000 to 12,000 per year. Uniforms, books and activities add another AED 2,000 to 5,000. Some premium schools require a refundable deposit of up to one term's fees.

Payment and Discount Options

Schools usually offer three instalments. Early payment discounts of 3 to 5 percent are common. Sibling discounts start at 10 percent for the second child and rise to 20 percent for the third. Always ask about KHDA or ADEK approved fee increases before signing the contract.

Key Questions During School Visits

Does the school follow KHDA, ADEK or SPEA inspection reports?
What is the teacher turnover rate?
Are there waiting lists for your child's year group?
Is Arabic taught to Ministry standards for non-Arab students?

Ask Tovi for more

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

Got more UAE questions?

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