Which Curriculum Is Best in UAE? A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Board for Your Child
July 11, 2025, 3:55 p.m.
Best School Curriculum in UAE: Full Guide for Parents in 2025
Choosing the right school curriculum is one of the most important decisions a parent makes in the UAE. With a wide range of international and national boards available, it can be difficult to decide which curriculum is best in the UAE for your child’s learning needs, long-term goals, and overall development.
This guide explains the major education boards in the UAE, how they differ, what type of learner each board suits best, and how to make the right choice based on your family’s background and future plans.
Understanding the Education Landscape in the UAE
The UAE is home to more than 500 private schools offering a variety of curricula. While some follow the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) national curriculum, many cater to the large expatriate population by offering international boards such as:
Each board has its structure, approach to learning, strengths, and challenges. Let’s look at them one by one.
1. British Curriculum in the UAE
The British curriculum is one of the most popular international boards in the UAE. It follows a structured academic path through Key Stages, leading to IGCSEs (typically at age 16) and A-Levels (at age 18).
Key Features:
Clearly defined academic stages
Subject specialization at A-Level
Emphasis on external examinations
Best for:
Students aiming for UK or European universities
Learners who prefer structured academics and depth in selected subjects
Considerations:
Early specialization may not suit all learners
High academic pressure in later years
Generally higher tuition fees
Popular British Schools in UAE:
Dubai College
Repton School Dubai
Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS)
2. International Baccalaureate (IB)
IB is a globally recognized curriculum with a focus on inquiry-based learning, independent thinking, and holistic development. It is offered in stages: PYP (Primary), MYP (Middle), and DP (Diploma Programme).
Key Features:
Emphasizes research, communication, and critical thinking
Students study a broad range of subjects with internal and external assessments
Encourages global citizenship and social responsibility
Best for:
Students planning to apply to top universities globally
Learners who enjoy project-based and interdisciplinary learning
Considerations:
Demanding workload
Requires good time management
Higher school fees in most cases
Notable IB Schools in UAE:
GEMS World Academy
Dar Al Marefa
Raha International School (Abu Dhabi)
3. American Curriculum
The American curriculum is flexible and credit-based. It typically includes AP (Advanced Placement) options in high school and prepares students for universities in the US and Canada.
Key Features:
Continuous assessment through GPA and credits
Broad subject exposure and flexibility
Focus on creativity, sports, and extracurriculars
Best for:
Students aiming to study in North America\
Learners who prefer coursework over exams
Considerations:
Academic standards may vary between schools
Less depth in subject specialization
Fewer AP options in some schools
Notable American Schools in UAE:
American School of Dubai
Universal American School (UAS)
American International School in Abu Dhabi
4. CBSE Curriculum in UAE
The CBSE(Central Board of Secondary Education) curriculum is followed by many Indian expatriates in the UAE. It is known for its strong academic foundation, especially in mathematics and science.
Key Features:
Nationally standardized syllabus from Grades 1 to 12
Board exams in Grades 10 and 12
English-medium instruction with Indian language options
Best for:
Indian students planning to pursue higher education in India
Families looking for cost-effective schooling with a strong academic base
Considerations:
Emphasis on exams and theoretical learning
Less focus on creativity and research-based learning
Popular CBSE Schools in UAE:
The Indian High School, Dubai
GEMS Our Own English High School
Delhi Private School, Sharjah
Bright Riders School, Abu Dhabi
5. UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) Curriculum
The UAE MoE curriculum is followed mainly by Emirati students and some Arab expatriates. It integrates Islamic education, Arabic language, and national values with core subjects.
Key Features:
Strong focus on Arabic and Islamic studies
Recognized for local university admissions
Offers science and arts tracks in senior grades
Best for:
Students aiming to study in the UAE
Families looking for a curriculum that reflects local culture and language
Inquiry-based learners thrive in IB and American systems
Structured, exam-driven learners may do better in British or CBSE boards
2. University Plans:
UK/Europe: British or IB
US/Canada: American or IB
India: CBSE
UAE: MoE or any recognized international board
3. Budget and Location:
British and IB schools are usually more expensive, while CBSE and MoE schools offer more affordable options. Also consider which good schools are nearby.
4. Cultural Fit:
CBSE and MoE are rooted in Indian and Arab cultures, respectively. IB and American schools often have more international diversity.
5. Flexibility:
CBSE and IB are well-suited for families who may relocate across countries.
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Interval Learning Supports All Curricula in the UAE
No matter which curriculum you choose for your child—British, IB, American, CBSE, or MoE, Interval Learning provides expert academic support tailored to each board.
Sessions designed around your child’s school board's syllabus, pace, and goals
We understand that every board is different, and every learner is unique. Interval Learning ensures your child gets the personalised attention they need to succeed.
Talk to our academic counselors today or book a demo class to know more.
Yes, CBSE is one of the most trusted and widely followed curricula in the UAE, especially among Indian expatriate families. It offers strong academic foundations, easy transferability, and is cost-effective.
While the core curriculum is the same as in India, UAE CBSE schools follow local regulations. Arabic, Islamic Studies (for Muslim students), and UAE Social Studies are added subjects as per the Ministry of Education.
Yes, transitions are possible. However, moving from CBSE to IB may require academic adjustment due to different learning styles. Earlier transitions (before Grade 9) are smoother.
Interval Learning provides subject-specific one-on-one tuition across all CBSE classes. We help students prepare for school exams, board exams, Olympiads, and foundation-level entrance exams. Our tutors follow the exact school curriculum and offer regular progress tracking.
Yes. We have trained tutors for IB PYP, MYP, and DP programs, as well as British Key Stages, IGCSE, and A-Level subjects. We also cover American and UAE MoE syllabi.
You can contact us through our website or speak directly to a program advisor. Based on your child’s board, grade, and learning goals, we will match you with the right tutor and provide a trial session.
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Interval Learning is an online platform that offers one-on-one tutoring in both academic and non-academic subjects. We match students with skilled tutors to create a personalized learning experience across a range of topics. Our resources cover study tips, education trends, and personal development advice to help students, parents, and educators reach their goals. At Interval Learning, we focus on making education accessible, engaging, and suited to each learner’s needs.
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