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Guides

Guides for choosing a school in Dubai

Short answers to the questions families ask first, each checked against KHDA’s and the Ministry’s own documents.

  • Which year group will your child join in Dubai?

    Dubai counts a child's age on one fixed day. From 2026–27 that day is 31 December for most schools — so the birthday decides the year group, not the age.

    Checked 23 September 2026

  • What KHDA ratings mean

    The six levels, from Outstanding to Very weak, in the inspection framework’s own words, and how old a school’s rating can be.

    Checked 24 September 2026

  • Choosing a Dubai school for a child with special educational needs

    What every Dubai private school must do for a student of determination, in KHDA's own words; how KHDA rates inclusion; ten questions to ask a school.

    Checked 24 September 2026

  • Dubai school glossary

    KHDA ratings, inspection reports, fees, year groups and inclusion, each word defined in a sentence or two with its source.

    Checked 30 September 2026

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