Moving to the UAE means making important decisions for your family, including considering different types of education. With a diverse and multicultural society, the UAE values bilingual education and encourages language learning. The aim is to help students adapt to different personal or academic situations and give them the tools to connect with their surroundings.
At Remitly, we understand how important it is for families to find the right educational path in a new country. This guide will help you explore bilingual education in the UAE, including how it works, the benefits, and what to expect from different school programmes.
What is bilingual education?
Bilingual education means immersing in two or more languages, not just studying them as subjects. Instead of only taking language classes, students are taught different subjects in different languages. For example, a school might teach maths in English and science in Arabic.
This teaching method helps students build language skills naturally while learning essential subjects. The approach improves fluency, strengthens thinking skills, and helps students understand different cultures.
In the UAE, bilingual education usually focuses on English and Arabic. For Emirati students, this means staying connected to their language and culture while developing strong English skills for university and careers. For expat families, bilingual education is an opportunity to integrate into local life in the UAE while keeping an international perspective.
Language learning options in the UAE
Schools in the UAE come in many forms, including public, private, and international, each with its own approach to language learning. Many schools offer bilingual or immersion programmes, with English and Arabic as the main focus. Some also include other languages like French, German, or Mandarin.
The UAE government supports a flexible approach, which allows schools to create their language programmes while following local and international standards. With so many choices, it’s worth researching different schools to find the best fit for your child’s language level, background, and future goals.
Challenges of bilingual education
Learning in two languages has great benefits, but also comes with challenges for students, teachers, and parents. Switching between languages, especially in subjects like maths or science, can take some getting used to. It’s normal for students to feel more confident in one language while needing extra support in the other.
Common difficulties for students and teachers
Every student has a different level of comfort with languages. If you or your child is stronger in English, Arabic lessons might feel more challenging, and the same goes for Arabic speakers learning in English. Teachers also face this challenge, as some may be trained mainly in one language, making it harder to teach in both.
Cultural differences can also play a role in how students learn. Classrooms in the UAE bring together children from many nationalities, each with their own language background. Schools work hard to make sure everyone feels included, often providing extra support like bilingual teaching assistants or additional learning resources.
How schools help students succeed
To facilitate bilingual learning, schools use helpful strategies like visual aids, group activities, and peer support. Pairing students, one stronger in Arabic and the other in English, helps them learn from each other in a relaxed way.
Many schools also offer after-school language clubs or tutoring, giving students extra time to practice without feeling pressured. Teacher training programmes also play a big role. These ensure that educators have the right tools to make bilingual lessons straightforward and engaging for everyone.
Benefits of bilingual education
Many families in the UAE choose bilingual education because of the lifelong benefits it brings to children’s learning and thinking skills. Research shows that growing up with two or more languages helps students develop strong cognitive abilities that go beyond the classroom.
How bilingualism boosts learning
When kids regularly switch between languages, their brains get better at problem-solving and critical thinking. This strengthens their ability to focus, adapt quickly, and understand complex ideas. Bilingual learners also tend to pick up new languages more easily since they naturally develop a strong awareness of grammar and vocabulary.
In the UAE, learning both English and Arabic helps students connect with local communities while preparing them for future studies or careers. Speaking multiple languages can open doors, making building relationships and navigating international opportunities easier.
Long-term benefits for students in the UAE
Studies suggest that bilingual students often excel at tasks requiring focus and multitasking. These skills become even more valuable in secondary school, university, and beyond. In the UAE, where businesses and industries rely on international connections, bilingual graduates have an advantage in fields like hospitality, finance, and technology.
However, the benefits go beyond academics and professional goals. If your children grow up with two languages, it will help them see the world from different perspectives, making them more open-minded and adaptable. Whether they stay in Dubai, move to Abu Dhabi, or study abroad, being bilingual will give them the confidence to thrive in a variety of environments.
How to make bilingual education work
Even with the best intentions, teachers and parents can face obstacles when supporting a bilingual education. Success depends on having the right strategies, from planning lessons effectively to making language learning part of daily life. Everyone, including schools, educators, and families, plays a role in helping students feel confident using multiple languages.
Best practices for schools
A strong bilingual programme starts with a clear structure. Many schools in the UAE follow international models like the IB programme or other structured approaches to balance language instruction. There are a few key strategies they use.
- Thoughtful language planning: Schools set specific times for different languages to avoid confusion and ensure students get equal exposure. For example, maths might be taught in English on some days and Arabic on others.
- Ongoing teacher training: Teachers need regular workshops on bilingual teaching methods. These sessions cover everything from assessment techniques to making lessons more interactive and culturally inclusive.
- Providing the right resources: Schools invest in bilingual textbooks, digital tools, and learning materials to help students grasp subjects in both languages. Keeping resources up-to-date ensures students have the best support possible.
Common myths about bilingual education
Many parents wonder whether bilingual education is the right choice for their child, and it’s common to encounter misconceptions.
Some worry that learning two languages at the same time might confuse children, but research shows that young learners naturally adapt. While they may mix languages at first, this is a normal part of the process, and they quickly learn to separate them.
Another common belief is that bilingual children take longer to start speaking. But studies show they catch up quickly and often develop stronger cognitive skills in the long run.
Some parents think focusing on one language before introducing another is better, but early exposure makes fluency easier. Another misconception is that bilingual students struggle more in school, when in fact, they often have better problem-solving skills, improved focus, and greater adaptability. Understanding these realities can help parents feel more confident in choosing a bilingual learning path.
How parents can support bilingual learning
As a parent, your involvement makes a big difference in a child’s language development during their time in the UAE. Schools encourage families to stay engaged through parent-teacher meetings, bilingual newsletters, and workshops that show how to support learning at home. Parents can do simple activities, like reading books in both languages. They can also have short conversations in Arabic and English, which can help reinforce lessons outside the classroom.
It helps when parents understand how the school structures bilingual learning. If you know which subjects are taught in which language, it makes it easier to align home activities, such as using language-learning apps or choosing bedtime stories with the same language focus. This consistency makes it easier for children to retain what they learn and gain fluency over time.
With so many different schools in the UAE, each offering its own take on bilingual education, it can feel overwhelming to choose the right one.
Understanding the structure and options available
In the UAE, schools follow different educational models. Public schools focus on an Arabic-based curriculum, while private and international schools offer alternatives, like British or American.
In larger cities like Dubai, you’ll find schools tailored to different communities and nationalities, but they welcome students from all backgrounds. In smaller cities, options may be more limited, but schools still prioritise both academic excellence and cultural identity. To find the right fit, it’s a good idea to look at a school’s teaching approach, facilities, and how well it supports bilingual learning.
Balancing global education with local culture
The UAE is home to families from all over the world, so schools aim to mix global education standards with local traditions. Arabic remains the official language, and Islamic studies are available for students who follow the local religion. Bilingual and multilingual education helps students succeed in an international environment while staying connected to their cultural roots.
Since English is widely used in business and higher education, the UAE strongly encourages students to develop fluency in both English and Arabic. Schools often include activities like debate clubs and cultural events to help students build confidence in both languages while connecting with their communities.
The lifelong value of bilingual education
Bilingual learning in the UAE isn’t just for children; it benefits newcomers, older students, and adults looking to expand their language skills.
Language transition support for newcomers
Remember that if your family is new to the UAE, adapting to a bilingual education system can take time. Many schools offer English as a Second Language (ESL) and Arabic as a Second Language (ASL) classes to help students build confidence. Some schools also provide extra support for parents.
As a parent, you can play a key role in helping your children adjust. Simple habits, like reading books in both languages, encouraging casual conversations at home, and using language-learning apps, can reinforce new skills. Over time, your children will feel more comfortable learning in their new surroundings.
Bilingual education for older students and adults
Language learning doesn’t stop in school. Many universities in the UAE offer bilingual degree programmes, while professional institutes provide language courses for adults. If you’re preparing for higher education or improving your job prospects, strong skills in both English and Arabic can make a real difference.
How bilingual education prepares students for the future
In a competitive job market, being bilingual helps students stand out. Many employers in the UAE look for candidates who can seamlessly switch between English and Arabic. Strong language skills also make networking easier, which can lead to career opportunities.
Beyond work, bilingualism builds adaptability and cultural awareness. If you choose to study abroad, work in a multicultural environment, or simply connect with different communities, knowing multiple languages makes it easier to navigate new experiences. By embracing bilingual education, both you and your children can set yourselves up for long-term success in the UAE.
FAQs
What are the main benefits of bilingual education in the UAE?
Bilingual education helps students develop strong cognitive skills, improves problem-solving abilities, and enhances language fluency in both English and Arabic. It also fosters cultural understanding, helping children connect with local traditions while preparing for global opportunities. These skills are valuable for academic success, career growth, and everyday interactions in a multicultural society.
How can parents support bilingual learning at home?
Parents can help by making bilingual learning part of daily life. Reading books, watching educational videos, and having conversations in both languages can reinforce school lessons. Playing word games, using language-learning apps, and encouraging children to practice with native speakers can also build confidence. Staying aligned with the school’s language approach ensures steady progress.
Are there any challenges to bilingual education?
Yes, students may feel overwhelmed switching between languages, and some teachers may be stronger in one language than the other. However, interactive teaching methods, extra tutoring, and bilingual support staff can make the transition smoother. Parents and teachers working together to create a positive learning environment also helps children adapt more easily.
How does bilingual education help with career opportunities?
Fluency in both English and Arabic is a major advantage in the UAE. Industries like finance, hospitality, healthcare, and technology highly value bilingual professionals who can communicate effectively across cultures. Students who develop strong language skills early on have better opportunities in higher education and the job market.