How to Choose the Best Indian School in UAE for Your Child: A Complete Parent Guide

Choosing the right school for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. If you’re looking for an Indian school in the UAE, there are many great options, but how do you decide which one is the best fit?

This guide will help you understand what to look for when choosing an Indian school in the UAE, whether you're living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or any other Emirate.

1. Understand the Indian Curriculum Options in the UAE

Most Indian schools in the UAE follow either of these two boards:

CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education)

• Structured and widely recognized.
• Strong focus on science, math, and competitive exams.
• A good choice if your child might continue studies in India or appear for national-level entrance exams.

CISCE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations)

• Offers ICSE (Grade 10) and ISC (Grade 12).
• Known for its emphasis on English, humanities, and creative subjects.
• Encourages project work and in-depth learning.

Tip: Choose based on your child’s strengths and future plans.

2. Check School Ratings and Reputation

Before selecting a school, look at the inspection reports and ratings from official education authorities:

• KHDA – for Dubai schools
• ADEK – for Abu Dhabi schools
• SPEA – for Sharjah schools

A rating of “Very Good” or “Outstanding” usually means the school has high academic standards, good teaching, and proper facilities.

Also, talk to other parents and read online reviews. Real experiences often give more insight than brochures.

3. Look at Academic Performance

Ask about the school’s recent board exam results and how well their students perform.

A good school usually has:

• Consistent academic results
• Alumni who join top universities
• Balanced focus on studies and skill-building

4. Visit the Campus (or Take a Virtual Tour)

When possible, visit the school in person. If not, many schools offer virtual tours. While visiting, observe:

• Cleanliness and safety of the campus
• Classroom size and environment
• Libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities
• How staff interact with students

Academics are important, but so is your child’s overall development.

Choose a school that offers:

• Sports, arts, and music programs
• Debate clubs, student leadership, and competitions
• Events that help build confidence and creativity

6. Check Class Size and Student-Teacher Ratio

Smaller class sizes mean your child will get more attention and support.

A good school:

• Has fewer students per class
• Offers extra help when needed
• Builds better relationships between teachers and students

7. Understand the Fee Structure

Don’t just look at the tuition fees. Ask about:

• Transport, uniforms, books, and activity costs
• Sibling discounts or scholarship options
• Flexible payment plans

Tip: Choose a school that offers value, not just low fees.

8. Consider School Location and Transport

A long commute can be tiring for young students. Look for schools:

• Close to your home
• On a reliable and safe school bus route
• With flexible pickup/drop timings if needed

9. Match the School's Values with Yours

Every school has a certain environment or “ethos.” Some are academically focused, while others may highlight creativity, discipline, or cultural values.

Ask yourself:

• Does this school reflect my family’s values?
• Is it inclusive and respectful of all backgrounds?
• Will my child feel safe and accepted?

10. Understand the Admission Process

Indian schools in the UAE often have waiting lists. So, start the admission process early.

You’ll typically need:

• Passport and Emirates ID (child and parent)
• Last school report
• Transfer certificate and birth certificate
• Medical records

Attend open houses or orientation events to meet the staff and ask questions.

Top Indian Schools in the UAE (2025 Snapshot)

What some UAE parents shared about choosing Indian schools for their children:

“The school was recommended by friends, and we liked the experienced faculty. It’s been a good decision for our child.”
— Arifa, Global Indian School, Ajman

“We chose this school for its strong academics and affordable fees. My child enjoys going every day.”
— Alfiya, GEMS Our Own Indian School, Al Quoz

“The small class size was a big factor for us. Teachers give individual attention, and my child feels supported.”
— Thushara, Leaders Private School, Sharjah

“The campus is clean, and the academic performance is excellent. We felt confident right after our visit.”
— Faiha, Abu Dhabi Indian School, Al Wathba

“The school provides equal opportunities to all students. Safety, extracurriculars, and academic quality are top-notch.”
— Raynav, Delta English School, Sharjah

“We liked the school’s reputation and the smooth admission process. The support from staff was very helpful.”
— Rajani, GEMS United Indian School, Abu Dhabi

When Do Schools Reopen in UAE for 2025? Key Dates You Should Know

Every year, many UAE parents plan holidays and back-to-school prep around the official school calendar. Whether your child is in a public, Indian, or international school, it’s important to know when classes start for the 2025–2026 year.

Most public and MOE-curriculum private schools across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates will reopen on Monday, 25 August 2025. This is based on guidelines from the MOE, KHDA, and ADEK, which require schools to complete at least 182 teaching days.

For a full breakdown by curriculum and emirate, check out our blog: School Reopening Dates in UAE (2025): Public & Private School Start Schedule Across Emirates

Comparison Table: CBSE vs. CISCE

Practical Checklist for Parents

• Shortlist schools based on curriculum and ratings
• Visit campuses or attend virtual tours
• Talk to current parents
• Review application deadlines
• Prepare all documents in advance

Give Your Child the Right Academic Support with Interval Learning

Choosing the best Indian school in the UAE is not just about academics; it’s about finding the right balance of education, values, facilities, and support for your child’s growth.

Once you've selected the school, give your child the extra edge with personalized support from Interval Learning.

Selecting the best Indian school is the first step. But to help your child truly succeed, personalized support at home can make a big difference.

At Interval Learning, we offer one-on-one online tuition for Classes 1 to 12, aligned with the Indian curriculum. Whether your child is following CBSE or ICSE, our expert tutors help with school subjects, homework, exam prep, and confidence-building.

Want to help your child excel in academics?
Book a demo class with Interval Learning today and experience personalized learning at its best