Public Schools in Dubai: Latifa, Amna Bint Wahab & More

Dubai's government schools play a vital role in shaping the next generation. Adhering to the UAE's established national curriculum, these institutions focus on academic achievements and the significance of Emirati culture and traditions.

Beyond the textbooks, they boast modern facilities and offer a range of activities that contribute to a well-rounded education.

UAE nationals and those with UAE passports, as well as people from neighboring Gulf countries and those given special nationality status, can study for free in government schools. Students from other countries can go to these schools by paying fees and getting approval based on their performance.

In government schools of the UAE, there are four distinct streams:

The General stream starts from Grade one and students can later move to specific streams based on their interests and performance.
After Grade 8, they can opt for the Professional stream, emphasizing practical skills and leading to a technical high school certificate.
Post Grade 9, based on their performance, they can stay in the General stream or move to the Advanced stream, which offers a deeper focus on scientific subjects like math and sciences.
The Elite stream is tailored for top-performing students, starting from Grade 6, with an emphasis on analytical skills in math and science.

Parents seeking the best educational environment for their children would benefit from this list of the leading public schools in Dubai.

Rashid School for Boys

Rashid School for Boys, founded in 1986 under the direction of Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, former Ruler of Dubai, has been a pillar of education in Dubai for over 35 years.

This school offers an education primarily for Emirati boys, blending the UK's National Curriculum with essential elements from the UAE's educational standards, including Arabic, Islamic Studies, and an understanding of Emirati culture. The school covers education from early years to Grade 13. Alongside core academic subjects, students explore arts, technology, and languages like French.

The campus is thoughtfully designed with spaces like a Japanese garden to foster a calm learning environment amidst the energetic nature of its students. Overall, Rashid School for Boys is known for its commitment to fostering lifelong learning in its students, balancing global standards with a deep respect for UAE's traditions and values.

Location: Nadd Al Sheba, Dubai

Contact: +971 4 3361187

Islamic School for Training and Education

Founded in 1983 by Haj Saeed Bin Ahmed Al Lootah, the Islamic School for Training & Education in Dubai has been educating students from childhood to adulthood, instilling in them deep Islamic values and principles.

The school's approach to education is unique. Rather than just focusing on academic knowledge, the founder believes that authentic learning fosters a spirit of research, innovation, and practical application in students.

The school aims to prepare its students not only for further studies but also to be valuable contributors to key sectors like construction, trading, Islamic banking, and IT by the age of 16.

The school's core philosophy revolves around three main pillars: imparting Islamic values, providing age-appropriate practical education, and emphasizing fluency in Standard Arabic.

Their unique educational model allows students to complete their studies by the age of 16.

Location: Al Muhaisnah 1

Contact: +971 4 2646001

Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Islamic Institute

The Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Islamic Institute in Dubai was started in 2002 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The school teaches about Islam and the Arabic language, focusing on both old traditions and new ideas.

The school believes in teaching good values and respecting everyone's beliefs, especially in a place like Dubai where many cultures come together. They also think it's important for students to know about their own UAE traditions and the teachings of the Holy Quran.

Besides regular studies, the school prepares students with the skills they need for jobs in today's world. They have courses that mix old teachings with new ways of thinking. They also encourage students to explore, create, and learn about new things through research.

The Institute also takes care of students who might need extra help in their studies. Everyone at the school works together to ensure all students get a good education.

Location: Dubai Academic City

Contact: +971 4 3688532

Latifa School for Girls

The Latifa School for Girls in Dubai was founded in 1982 by Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The curriculum is rooted in British educational practices but is adapted to respect and incorporate UAE values, traditions, and the Arabic language. Students follow a modified British curriculum alongside Arabic and Islamic Studies as per UAE guidelines and by the end of their schooling, are fluent in both English and Arabic.

This school emphasizes personalizing learning to cater to each student's needs. High standards are expected, and the environment fosters motivation, collaboration, and continuous professional growth.

Transitioning from primary to secondary is smooth, with a dedicated program. The secondary school offers a wide range of subjects, both core and optional. By Year 12, students choose subjects based on their aspirations and abilities. Those aiming for universities abroad can extend their studies into Year 13.

A notable aspect of the school is its proactive careers program. Beginning in Year 9, it involves discussions about future career paths, work experiences, university fairs, and even mock interviews in later years to prepare students for the next steps in their educational journey.

Location: Nad Al Sheba

Contact: +971 4 336 1065

Amna Bint Wahab School for Girls

Amna Bint Wahab School for Girls is a well-known public school Guiding young women through their vital school years, offering high-quality secondary education spanning from Grade 10 to Grade 12.

Amna Bint Wahab ensures a comprehensive education incorporating main subjects like English, Maths, and Science.

What sets their teaching apart is the strong focus on Islamic Education. This helps students do well in their studies and also connect with their culture and religion.

Beyond the classroom, the school is equipped with notable facilities including a dedicated art area, where students can unleash their creativity, and a sports hall that caters to the physical well-being of the students, promoting fitness and teamwork.

Following the ICSE curriculum, they aim to give students the knowledge and skills they need for the future. This way, students leave the school ready to do great things in the world.

Location: Al Baraha, Deira

Contact: +971 4 271 8693

Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government Dubai

The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) was started in 2005 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. This school is special because it's the first one in the Arab world that focuses on how governments work and how to make good public policies.

They teach future leaders how to handle the big tasks that come with running a government. MBRSG doesn't work alone; they partner with the famous Harvard Kennedy School and other big schools and companies from around the world.

They also host big meetings and workshops where people from the Middle East and other places can share ideas. MBRSG teaches about things like leadership, how to make policies, and how to innovate. They want to help Dubai become a leading city of the future.

At MBRSG, students can study different subjects like leadership, economics, and more. They have courses like Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Policy. In short, MBRSG is a place where leaders learn to make a positive change in their communities and the world.

Location: Convention Tower, DWTC

Contact: +971 04 329 3290

With around 200 public schools, Dubai is deeply committed to providing quality education for its residents, highlighting the city's dedication to building a bright future for its community.