It’s hard to be separated from your kids, but the immersive learning style of a boarding school, along with the prestige that often comes from attending one, can set your children up for major success in future life. Many international schools in the UAE are boarding schools, combining global teaching standards with an understanding of local traditions.
At Remitly, we understand that sending your child to boarding school comes with a lot of questions. In this article, we’re going to take a look at the best boarding schools in the UAE, along with the benefits and downsides to keep in mind when making your decision.
UAE boarding schools: the basics
Basically, boarding schools are schools where students study and live during the school term. In the UAE, these schools combine high academic standards with a safe, supportive residential environment. The idea is to nurture independence, discipline, and social growth.
Boarding schools are a great option for parents who travel a lot. Staying at school during term time gives your children stability and a safe environment to live and learn. Boarding schools also mean no need for a morning commute, which saves time, stress, and is better for the environment.
No wonder these schools are so popular. The Swiss International Scientific School Dubai, one of the top 100 schools in the world, has seen almost 100% growth year on year. And Harrow International plans to open its first school in the Middle East in Abu Dhabi in 2026.
But the biggest reason for the popularity of the best boarding schools in the UAE is that many of them have a long record of high academic achievement. These residential schools offer some of the best options for private education in the UAE, setting your children up for success.
Many UAE boarding schools are international schools, but they make an effort to balance global education standards with local traditions. Several Dubai boarding schools offer Arabic language studies and Islamic education options.
A typical boarding school day
The average day in a UAE boarding school includes structured academic lessons, extracurricular activities, evening study sessions, and supervised downtime. Students live in modern dormitories with house parents or boarding supervisors who take care of them around the clock. Weekends are often spent on recreational activities, cultural excursions, and community events.
Plus, they have extended holidays that align with the UAE school calendar, which gives kids plenty of time to see their parents and families.
Types of boarding schools available in the UAE
When you’re thinking about how to choose a boarding school in the UAE, remember that there are several different types.
International boarding schools
International boarding schools may follow well-known education systems from other countries or use the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Like the Emirates itself, these schools welcome students from countries all over the world. Schools like Repton School Dubai, the Swiss International Scientific School, and Brighton College Al Ain are known for their international flavour.
Local boarding schools
Local boarding schools follow the UAE national curriculum developed by the Ministry of Education. Places like Ajyal International School Al Falah and Emirates National Schools combine strong academics with lessons in Arabic and Islamic studies. That makes them popular with families who want their children to stay close to Emirati traditions.
Specialist boarding schools
Then there are specialist boarding schools. These focus on particular areas such as science and technology, performing arts, or sports. Schools like Sharjah Performing Arts Academy and Dubai Sports World prepare children for a specific career path and allow them to develop their passions.
| Type | Curriculum | Main focus | Example schools | Best for |
| International | British, American, IB | Global education | Repton, SISD | International families |
| Local | UAE National | Emirati values & bilingual learning | Ajyal, Emirates National | Local families |
| Specialist | Subject-based | Arts, STEM, or sports | GEMS Wellington, SPAA | Talented students |
Benefits of choosing boarding schools for UAE families
Why choose a UAE boarding school for your family? Boarding schools offer lots of advantages for both students and parents.
- Quality of education: Lots of UAE boarding schools have small class sizes, which allows the teachers to give each student more attention and help.
- Learning life skills: A boarding school can also teach your child important life skills like independence, time management, and responsibility. Living on campus will teach them to organise their studies and daily routines, providing important skills for university and adult life.
- Diversity: Many UAE boarding schools also offer a diverse international community. Students from many different countries study together, giving your child an insight into different cultures around the world. At the same time, many schools pride themselves on respecting local traditions, and include Arabic studies to keep a strong connection to Emirati culture.
- Preparation for higher education: Boarding schools also excel at university preparation. They offer career counselling, advanced coursework, and strong alumni networks that can open global opportunities for your children. Many graduates continue on to top universities in the UK, the US, and elsewhere around the world.
Understanding costs and financial planning
If you’re wondering about boarding school costs in the UAE, it’s important to understand all the costs and all the value the schools provide. Naturally, a residential school is more expensive than a regular private school, but that’s partly because you also have to pay for your child’s accommodation, food, and extracurricular activities. At the same time, you won’t have these costs at home, at least during term time.
Breaking down the costs
The costs vary a lot depending on the type of school and curriculum. Tuition can be anything from 10,000 AED to 200,000 AED—and that’s before you pay for uniforms, books, and transportation.
Specialist schools built around arts or sports programs can be even more expensive due to the specialist equipment they require. For example, Repton has tuition fees that increase as the student advances, with the final year costing 102,753 AED.
Making payments
Most UAE boarding schools allow payment by term or annual payment plans, which can help give you predictable payments. Some provide scholarships or financial aid for exceptional students.
To plan effectively, consider creating a yearly education budget. Don’t forget about hidden costs like school trips, medical insurance, and weekend activities.
It can also be helpful to compare boarding school tuition with day school options so that you can understand the value of the boarding experience. In general, boarding school is always going to cost more than a day school, but it also presents opportunities that day schools don’t.
Lifestyle benefits
Don’t forget about the impact on your lifestyle, too.
For example, many parents who travel extensively for work send their children to boarding schools. This can free you up to pursue more lucrative opportunities, so the higher cost may end up being a good financial decision for your family.
The application process: step-by-step guide
Every school has its own application process, but the more prestigious the school, the more planning and preparation you’ll need. Many families begin this process 12 to 18 months before the intended start date. It can take that long for paperwork, assessments, and visa arrangements if you need them.
If that sounds overwhelming, don’t worry—we’ve broken it down into a step-by-step guide.
- Research and shortlist schools: Start your journey by looking at different UAE boarding schools, comparing the curriculum, fees, and overall environment. It can be helpful to contact admissions teams for brochures or ask about open days.
- Prepare required documents: Most schools will ask for academic reports from the last two years, teacher references, and medical records. They may also want to see passport and visa copies.
- Entrance exams and interviews: Many boarding schools hold entrance exams in English, math, and reasoning. They may also ask your child to an interview to talk about their interests and goals. You can help your child prepare for this process by holding mock interviews.
- School visits and taster days: Visiting a school with your child can help you get a feel for the atmosphere, environment, and daily routines. You can also ask questions about the curriculum and support systems.
- Personal statement and application: Some schools will ask your child to write a short personal statement describing what they enjoy, what motivates them, and why they feel the school will be a good fit.
How to choose the right boarding school for your child
Choosing the right boarding school in the UAE is a very personal process. Each family has different priorities, but here are a few key areas you might want to keep in mind:
- Does the school offer a British, American, Indian, or IB curriculum? And what curriculum is the best match for your child’s future goals?
- What does the school specialise in? Some are focused purely on academics, while others balance this with arts, sports, and leadership development.
- Where is the school located and how easy is it to visit?
- Are you and your child comfortable with the class sizes, dormitory options, and extracurricular activities offered?
Involving your child in this decision-making process can be helpful for both of you. Starting a new school can be stressful, and feeling that they have been part of the decision can help them adjust more easily later on. Ask your child to share what matters most to them—it might be sports, academics, or friendship—and consider that when choosing a school.
Red flags
Watch out for things like:
- A school that’s reluctant to share inspection reports
- Frequent staff turnover
- Limited communication with parents
- Outdated or overcrowded facilities
- Unclear fee structure
- No clear child protection or safeguarding policy
Preparing your child for boarding school life
Starting in a boarding school in the UAE is exciting, but preparation helps to make the transition easier for your kid. You can begin by talking openly about what boarding school will be like. Discuss routines, roommates, and expectations to ease your child’s worries.
You may want to encourage your child to practice independence by managing simple tasks like laundry, budgeting, and organising schoolwork. Another way to prepare is by creating a practical packing list together, including essentials for study and comfort, and personal items that remind them of home.
Before the term even starts, consider setting up regular communication times and planning family visits. Staying connected will help your child feel supported while they build confidence in their new environment.
Common concerns and how to address them
Some parents worry about how their child will adapt to a boarding school in the UAE. Luckily, good schools provide strong systems of care.
Some homesickness is normal at first. Regular calls and visits can help with that, and so can supportive staff at the school. Staying connected with their own culture can also help students feel more at home. Lots of boarding schools respect and encourage religious and cultural practices, offering prayer rooms, halal meals, and guidance from their student care teams.
A good campus will also have strict safety and security measures and 24-hour supervision. It should also have counsellors and mentors who can offer emotional and steady support. Plus, families can stay involved through sibling visits, school events, and regular communication, even at a distance.
Your family’s future
Deciding what school your child should attend is a big decision, and not one to take lightly. Thorough research, including school visits, can help you decide if a boarding school is the right choice for your family.
The best Dubai and Abu Dhabi boarding schools are very popular, so you’ll need a strategic plan to make sure your child gets a place if that’s what you want. Follow the steps outlined in this article to find the right school for your child and help them make the transition successfully.
FAQs
Are UAE boarding schools suitable for international students?
Yes. Many UAE boarding schools follow British, American, or IB curricula and welcome students from all over the world.
Do boarding schools in the UAE respect Islamic values?
Yes. Schools provide halal food, prayer facilities, and Islamic education where required.
How often can parents visit boarding schools in the UAE?
Every school has different policies, but most schools allow visits on weekends, during breaks, or for special events.
How much does boarding school in the UAE cost?
Tuition can cost anywhere from 10,000 AED to 200,000 AED per year. That doesn’t include the cost of uniforms, books, and boarding.