Category · Education
Education
One of the biggest decisions when relocating — the school landscape at a glance.
40-120k+AED/yr
Tuition range
Sept
British / American term start
5tiers
KHDA rating
multi-yr
Waitlist at top schools
-6M
School research
KHDA · curriculum · location
-4M
Viewings · entry tests
Parent interviews too
-2M
Contract + deposit
One term paid upfront
Sept (or Apr)
Term starts
2026-09 baseline
WarningTop-rated schools have multi-year waitlists
KHDA Outstanding / Very Good schools can have 2–5 year waitlists. Start enquiring before your move is confirmed. Sibling priority discounts exist.
InfoYour child can't enroll without their visa + EID
Path: your employment visa → child's dependent visa → child's Emirates ID → school enrollment. Budget 2–4 weeks per stage.
Curriculum choice
Are you planning to return to Korea within 3–5 years?
Yes
IB or British (easier Korean reintegration)IGCSE · A-Level compatible
No
Choose freely across systemsBritish · American · IB · Indian
Both
Korean Saturday school + weekday internationalKSD (Dubai Korean School)
Most schools
British
IGCSE → A-Level
40-90k / yr
- GEMS · Raffles · Kings'
- Re-entry to Korean system works
- Many highly-rated schools
American
Common Core → AP/SAT
60-120k / yr
- ACS · American School
- Great for US university path
- Fewer schools (longer waitlists)
IB
PYP/MYP/DP
70-120k / yr
- Dubai International Academy
- Globally recognised
- Premium tuition
Korean (weekend)
KSD Dubai Korean School
Weekends only
- Korean language + subjects
- Pairs with a weekday school
- Community network
Detailed guides