Compare Islamic International Schools in Dubai, United arab emirates

NAIS is located at Mizhar 1, Al Khawaneej, behind Arabian Center in Dubai. The campus sits in a residential area with easy access from the Mizhar/Al Khawaneej communities. It serves relocating families in northeast Dubai and surrounding neighborhoods.

Kindergarten (KG1 and KG2), Elementary (Grades 1-5), Middle School (Grades 6-8), and High School (Grades 9-12).

Co-educational.

The student body is around 475–502 students. Emirati pupils make up about 32% of the population and international students account for roughly 68%. A detailed nationality breakdown by country is not publicly published.

NAIS operates an Inclusion Department and is an inclusive school. It supports a range of learning needs, including students with disabilities (students of determination), English Language Learners, and gifted and talented students.

The school has no formal country affiliation; it operates an American program based on Common Core English/Math and California standards.

The school has no religious affiliation. (Islamic Education is provided as part of UAE Ministry standards where applicable.)

The school day runs from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM Monday to Thursday; on Fridays, classes finish at 11:30 AM; Saturdays operate 9:00 AM–1:00 PM; Sundays are closed.

NAIS offers a school bus service via Regal Bus Transport. Buses are GPS-tracked and fitted with seat belts and CCTV. Routes cover key areas across Dubai with customized stops. Registration is via the school transport form or by contacting the transport team at anees.k@naischool.ae or 0507520628.

NAIS offers an American program across four stages: Kindergarten (KG1-2), Elementary (Grades 1-5), Middle (Grades 6-8), and High School (Grades 9-12). The English and Mathematics follow the Common Core Standards, while other subjects draw on the California State Standards; Arabic and Islamic Education align with Ministry Standards, with UAE National Education integrated into Social Studies. In Elementary, there are diagnostic tests at the start of each subject and an exit assessment at year-end; the program follows the Carolina National Standards in all subjects. The school maintains an inclusive approach, supporting students with diverse learning needs, including English Language Learners and those who are gifted and talented. In High School, Honors courses are available for Grades 9-10 and AP courses run from Grade 10 through 12, with more than 10 AP options for college credit.

Not publicly available.

Not publicly reported.

Not publicly specified.

NAIS provides inclusive education and supports gifted and talented students through its Inclusion Department.

The 2023-2024 KHDA inspection report assesses North American International School's wellbeing provision as weak. The school has two guidance counsellors who provide student support in addition to general pastoral care. Governors and leaders are described as having a limited understanding of wellbeing principles, and there is no cohesive, whole‑school wellbeing vision yet. Data collection and ongoing monitoring of wellbeing are underdeveloped, and wellbeing initiatives are not consistently embedded across the curriculum. Staff and students can access support from teachers and counsellors, but opportunities for student leadership of wellbeing initiatives are limited, and wellbeing is not at the heart of school life. The inspection dates were November 6–10, 2023.

As of the 2023-2024 KHDA inspection, 49 students are recorded as students of determination at the school. There are two guidance counsellors listed to support students. A key recommendation is to ensure that all students of determination are fully supported in lessons and that teachers take into account students' individual education plans (IEPs). The DSIB notes care and support for students of determination but highlights variability across phases and calls for stronger ongoing support. The inspection does not describe the school as a specialist SEN institution.

The KHDA inspection does not publicly disclose information regarding English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision at North American International School. English is the language of instruction at the school. English attainment is described as Acceptable across phases (KG, Elementary, Middle, High). The inspection does not detail a formal, named EAL program or dedicated EAL staff.

Mental wellbeing is embedded within the broader wellbeing provisions assessed by KHDA, but the 2023-2024 inspection finds overall wellbeing provision to be weak. There are two guidance counsellors and reported access to counselling staff, yet data collection and monitoring of wellbeing are underdeveloped. The inspection notes limited student and parent engagement in wellbeing initiatives and a lack of a cohesive, school-wide wellbeing strategy. It also highlights that wellbeing is not central to school life, despite some awareness of available support among staff and students. Inspection details: November 6–10, 2023.

Safeguarding and child protection are identified as high priorities in the 2023-2024 KHDA inspection. The school's policies and procedures to ensure safety and security of students are documented and communicated to staff, students, and parents. The inspection notes that safeguarding, child protection and anti-bullying are prioritized, and there are arrangements for health and safety and premises maintenance. The DSIB report also records the presence of a safeguarding and wellbeing team and staff efforts to promote healthy behavior and supervise health needs. Overall, health and safety are rated Good, and safeguarding-related provisions are highlighted as a focus area for ongoing development. Inspection dates: 6–10 November 2023.

The North American International School (NAIS) in Dubai admits students of any race, religion, color, national or ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs and activities generally available to students. The admissions process includes an interview for KG1 with the Principal/Head of Section, and an assessment test in Math and English for KG2 to Grade 12. Applications are reviewed by admissions staff and the Principal's decision is final. After documentation is received, families are notified within a few days whether the applicant meets admission standards. Upon acceptance, a one-time non-refundable registration is due within five days to reserve a place for the following school year, and the first tuition payment must be received prior to the deadline to secure the place. If admission is granted but no place is available, the registration fee can be paid to place the student's name on the waiting list; NAIS will contact the family when a place becomes available. Enrollment is conditional upon the student successfully completing the current school year and submitting final grades; the student file must be complete before the first day of school. NAIS operates a 12‑year program, so applicants should review age requirements before applying. Admission office hours are Saturday–Thursday 8:00 AM–1:00 PM. Documents to submit include four passport-size photos; two birth certificates (KG1–Grade 1); original Transfer Certificate (KG2–Grade 12); progress report; two copies of passports; two copies of residency visas; two copies of Emirates IDs (student and parents); health card copy; vaccination card copy; and a transportation form if required. Transfer certificate requirements depend on where the previous school is located: Dubai schools require a stamp and signature with the TC in Arabic; other emirates require a stamped Arabic TC; schools outside the UAE require an Arabic TC and attestation from the Ministry of Education, UAE Embassy, and related authorities. There are links to Register Here and to the Fee Schedule.

If admission is granted but no place is available, the registration fee can be paid to place the student's name on the waiting list; NAIS will contact the family when a place becomes available.

The Indian High Group operates three Dubai campuses: Oud Metha, Al Garhoud, and The Indian International School Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). The Oud Metha campus is located near Oud Metha Metro Station. The campuses are in Oud Metha, Al Garhoud, and Dubai Silicon Oasis in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Pre-KG to Grade 11

Not-for-profit day school

An inclusive atmosphere with teachers adapting teaching techniques to involve all students, including those with disabilities.

India and the UAE

The school is not-for-profit, run by a Board of Trustees, and is part of The Indian High Group of Schools.

The curriculum is CBSE-based and aligned with MOE guidelines. Middle School covers grades 1 to 8 with a customized CBSE progression for secondary and senior secondary. Secondary School follows the CBSE curriculum from grade 9 to 12, with Arabic, Islamic Education, UAE Social Studies and MEP integrated where relevant. Optional electives include French, Computer Applications and Artificial Intelligence from grade 8 upwards. Senior Secondary offers 21 subject combinations with career guidance and counselling. 21st century learning skills, technology integration and enrichment programs such as coding, art, and field trips underpin the curriculum.

Circle of Happiness, Inclusion and Well-being is an essential part of the school system. The school recognises the central importance of human relationships and fosters a safe, caring, and supportive environment for learning. There is an explicit focus on high expectations for student performance, social-emotional learning and behaviour management. Counsellors collaborate with teachers and parents to identify academic and psycho-social-emotional needs and provide targeted interventions. Happiness and wellbeing are emphasised across the school, with daily wellbeing activities and a strengths-based approach to emotional resilience and self-efficacy.

Care & Support for Students with Learning Differences provides support in a variety of settings using multiple methodologies tailored to individual needs. Psychometric tests identify each student's needs; suitable learning challenges are set through comprehensive assessment. ASDAN is an accredited centre offering a range of courses and options to develop personal and social skills. Gifted and Talented students are catered for with extended work, opportunities to participate in external competitions, and meetings with parents; an Advanced Learning Plan is prepared for such students.

Language of instruction is English.

Circle of Happiness, Inclusion and Well-being is an essential part of the school system. Counselling Services provide psycho-socio-emotional support with counsellors collaborating with teachers and parents to identify needs and provide interventions. A team of counsellors, special educators and Learning Support Assistants empowers Students of Determination to access wellbeing provisions. The curriculum emphasises daily wellbeing activities and a focus on positive psychology, emotional resilience, and self-efficacy.

There is a named DCPO (Designated Child Protection Officer) who coordinates safeguarding. Staff must report concerns to the DCPO promptly and should not investigate themselves; records and communications are kept securely and confidentially, with information shared on a need-to-know basis. The policy covers missing education and protections for Students of Determination, with equal opportunities in education and transport safety. The Safeguarding Team ensures staff training and awareness of procedures, and serious concerns may be referred to authorities; parental notification is handled sensitively and in consultation with UAE agencies as needed.

1. Fill out the admission form available on the website. The Oud Metha campus is processing admissions for the 2026-2027 academic year with Grade 11 currently available; seats in other grades are not available and there is a waiting list. The Al Garhoud campus is processing admissions for the 2026-2027 academic year with Pre-KG currently available; seats in Grades 1–4 are not available and there is a waiting list. 2. Submit documents & report card. Prepare and submit the documents listed by the school: 1 copy of the child's passport, visa and Emirates ID; 1 copy of both parents' passport, visa and Emirates IDs; 1 copy of the child's birth certificate (with attestation if issued outside UAE); 2 passport-size photographs; vaccination records; copies of the child's progress reports for the last two years including the last examination taken; Transfer Certificate or School Leaving Certificate from the previous school (with attestations). Transfer Certificate requirements include English language, attestation and KHDA-related rules as outlined by the school. 3. Take the eligibility test. The eligibility test is used for admissions to KG2 through Grade 9, and panel interview may accompany the process. Grade 10 admissions require CBSE registration and performance in the eligibility test and panel interview; Grade 11 admissions are determined by a merit mix of Grades 9 and 10 results, the eligibility test, and an interview; Grade 12 admissions are based on available subject combinations and completion of CBSE registration. 4. Clear the eligibility test and receive offer letter. Shortlisted students will be offered admission after the eligibility test and interview processes. 5. Pay the required fees and submit all other documents. Complete the payment of fees and provide any remaining documents required for enrollment. 6. Provisional admission is granted and confirmed upon KHDA registration. Final confirmation occurs when KHDA registration is completed.

Seats are not available in other grades; complete online registration for the desired grade and join the waiting list. You will be contacted for an eligibility test for your learner only when seats become available.

Victory Heights Primary School, City of Arabia campus, is located in Dubai Sports City within the Dubailand area, adjacent to the City of Arabia development and near IMG World. The campus sits in a family-friendly, residential context with strong road links to central Dubai. It is within easy reach of communities such as Arabian Ranches I-III, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Villanova, Serena, The Villa, Mudon and Al Barari.

The school serves Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) through Year 6. It follows the Early Years Foundation Stage and British National Curriculum progression, with year groups from FS1 to Year 6 on site.

The school is a co-educational day school.

Pupil community includes more than 18 nationalities. The majority of pupils hold British passports. The school enrolls around 973 students aged approximately 3–11 years.

Inclusive Learning is central to VHPS. The Inclusion Team provides additional support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEND) and English Language Learners (ELL), including in-class support, targeted maths and literacy interventions, social-emotional groups, and language support.

Country affiliation: None. The school delivers a British-curriculum programme rather than an explicit national affiliation.

Religious affiliation: None stated.

The school day varies by year group. FS1 starts around 7:40am, FS2 around 8:00am, and Years 1–6 around 7:30am; end times are 1:15–1:45pm for FS1–FS2 and about 3:00–3:10pm for Years 1–6, with Friday finishes earlier (FS1 11:00am, FS2 11:15am, Years 1–6 11:30–11:40am). The week runs Monday to Friday.

A school bus service is available with routes serving Dubai Sports City and surrounding areas; the main site does not publicly publish the provider name. KHDA-related sources confirm that bus transport is offered.

VHPS requires all pupils to wear the full school uniform at all times. The Uniform page lists year-group specific items and outlines safety/appearance rules, such as hair tied back for girls, a single plain stud earring per ear (no hoops), no makeup or nail varnish, backpacks allowed but wheelie bags are not permitted, and no color trainers.

The school provides meals through a partnership with Ben's Farmhouse, a farm-to-table provider offering snacks and lunches for students from FS1 to Year 6. A weekly menu is published on the school's mobile site and meals can be ordered in advance.

VHPS uses a four-house system: Oryx (green), Foxes (red), Leopards (yellow) and Falcons (blue). All children from FS2 to Year 6 are assigned to a house, and house activities include house days, social and sporting events, and inter-house competitions. House captains lead teams and coordinate events; house points are awarded for effort, achievement, behaviour and sportsmanship; house shirts are worn on calendar house days and are available through the uniform supplier.

Victory Heights Primary School is owned and operated by Interstar Education (Interstar Advisory Services DMCC). The Board of Governors provides governance oversight, stating its purpose and responsibilities and meeting at least once per term. The board comprises a mix of roles, including a Principal/Director of Academics, a Chairman, independent academic experts, an inclusion representative, and staff representatives; the school notes South View School as a sister school.

Victory Heights Primary School (City of Arabia) teaches a British National Curriculum for England, with Foundation Stage (FS1–FS2) through Year 6, for students aged about 3 to 11. The curriculum emphasizes cross-curricular learning and strong literacy and numeracy foundations, with progression across English, Maths, Science, Humanities and the Arts from Year 1 to Year 6. Specialist subjects include Arabic and Islamic Studies (compulsory under KHDA), Spanish (KS2), PE and Swimming, Music, Art, Drama, Computing, and SPARK (STEAM), with SPARK projects linking science, technology, design and engineering. Inclusive Learning provides SEND support with individualised plans and ELL interventions, enrichment for more able learners, and a culture of inclusion. Assessment includes UAE statutory tests (GL Progress Tests in English, Maths, Science for Years 3–6; NGRT for Years 2–6; CAT4 for Years 4–6) and international benchmarking (TIMSS and PIRLS), alongside ongoing teacher assessments and regular reports.

Class sizes are up to 25 students per class; FS1–Year 2 have a teacher and a teaching assistant; Years 3–6 have a teacher and a shared teaching assistant.

Wellbeing is a core part of Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia's daily life. Mindful Monday is delivered for Years 1–2 and Wellbeing Wednesday for Years 3–6 to help students explore emotions, develop empathy, practise mindfulness, and reflect on how to care for themselves and others. Topics include gratitude, resilience, healthy friendships, and managing big feelings. Wellbeing is celebrated across the school through themed weeks and awareness days such as Global Love Day, Anti-Bullying Week, and World Kindness Day. ELLI Learning Powers support emotional resilience, self-reflection, and personal growth. The pastoral team works closely with teachers, parents, and specialists to provide emotional support, including 1:1 wellbeing sessions, friendship groups, and outside referral pathways when needed.

Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia describes its approach as inclusive rather than a specialist SEN institution. The school has an Inclusion Team and an Inclusion Champion who provide additional support for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities SEND and for English Language Learners ELL. It uses a Graduated System of Support GSS with Level 1 general support, Level 2 targeted support, Level 3 individualised support, and Level 3+ supplementary support to plan interventions. Identification involves teacher observations, Inclusion Team screening, assessment data, and parental input, with students placed on the Inclusion Register Students of Determination and primary and secondary needs recorded. The school can provide access to internal learning support staff and, when needed, external specialists such as occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, or educational psychologists; an Individual Learning Support Assistant may be used in exceptional cases. For English Language Learners, interventions are included within the AEN framework and documented accordingly.

English as an Additional Language ELL is addressed within VHPS's Inclusive Learning approach. The Inclusion Team delivers ELL interventions including bilingual resources, visuals, and small group sessions. ELL support is integrated with SEND and AEN provision to help students access the mainstream curriculum. There is no separate EAL department; support is embedded within the school's inclusive framework. When needed, external specialists may be consulted to support language development.

Mental wellbeing is integrated into Victory Heights Primary School's wellbeing framework. Mindful Monday is delivered for Years 1–2 and Wellbeing Wednesday for Years 3–6 to provide regular dedicated time for wellbeing. The sessions help students explore emotions, develop empathy, practise mindfulness, and reflect on how to take care of themselves and others. ELLI Learning Powers support emotional resilience, self-reflection, and personal growth. The pastoral team works closely with teachers, parents, and specialists to ensure that every child is emotionally supported, including 1:1 wellbeing sessions, friendship groups, or outside referral pathways when needed.

Victory Heights Primary School City of Arabia has a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy. The policy, version August 2025; last review date August 2025; next review date August 2026. The policy identifies the Designated Safeguarding Lead and deputies and lists other safeguarding roles and contacts within the school. External safeguarding contacts include the Ministry Of Education Child Protection Unit, Dubai Community Development Authority Child Protection Section, Ministry Of Interior Child Protection Centre, Al Ameen Service, Dubai Foundation For Women And Children, and Dubai Police. The policy states it aligns with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025 and Wadeema's Law; it also references the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. It outlines safeguarding procedures, reporting concerns, safe recruitment, and safeguarding through the curriculum.

1. Submit your application and register on the admissions portal. Prepare and upload the required documents: a copy of your child's recent school reports; a copy of the child's passport and Emirates ID; copies of both parents' passports and Emirates IDs. The admissions team reviews submissions and will guide you through the next steps. 2. Pay the AED 525 non-refundable application fee. Payment can be made in person at City of Arabia, by bank transfer, or by credit card. Book an assessment slot; current options are Tuesday 14:00-16:30, Thursday 14:00-16:30, or Friday 10:00-12:00; assessments may also be conducted online for overseas applicants. 3. For overseas families, residency visas are not required at the time of application but must be submitted to KHDA by the KHDA registration deadline. For Dubai-based applicants, a KHDA Transfer Certificate from the current school is required to register. All children entering Year 2 and upwards from overseas or another emirate must provide an original Transfer Certificate. 4. After submission and assessment, the admissions team will contact you to schedule an assessment and communicate admission decisions. Registration requires KHDA Transfer Certificate; without it, registration cannot proceed. The school reserves the right to place your child in the most suitable class according to KHDA guidelines. 5. Campus tours can be booked to learn about VHPS City of Arabia. VHPS COA accepts children from ages 3 to 11, covering Foundation Stage 1 to Year 6. The school is located in Dubailand with a bus service that operates on multiple routes. Fees for 2025-26 are: FS1 40,000 AED; FS2 44,000 AED; Year 1 48,000 AED; Year 2-3 51,000 AED; Year 4-5 55,000 AED; Year 6 57,000 AED.