When Families Move to the UAE, One of Their Top Priorities Is Quality Education for Their Children

international schools UAE

 

 

When families relocate to the UAE, the first thing on their checklist — after securing a home — is usually finding a reputable school for their children. For real estate investors, this creates a golden opportunity. Properties located near well-established international schools are consistently in high demand, attracting both buyers and tenants looking for convenience and quality of life.

In this blog, we’ll explore why international schools matter for real estate investments and provide a complete list of international schools across the UAE.


Why Should Investors Consider Schools When Buying Property?

If you’re planning to invest in real estate in the UAE, proximity to international schools is a crucial factor that should never be overlooked. Here’s why:

High demand from expat families

Most expatriates moving to the UAE are professionals relocating for work, and many bring their children along. These families prioritize access to quality education and often search for homes near reputable schools, which creates continuous demand for properties in those areas.

Better rental income and resale value

Properties close to international schools often command higher rents and enjoy quicker resale turnaround. The convenience of school proximity is a strong selling point for families, making these properties more marketable and more profitable.

Long-term tenants

Families with school-age children are less likely to relocate frequently to avoid disrupting their children’s education. This results in longer lease agreements and fewer vacancy gaps for property owners.

Added lifestyle appeal

Neighborhoods near international schools are typically well-developed, offering parks, shopping malls, healthcare clinics, and family-friendly amenities. This holistic environment makes these areas highly attractive for both buyers and renters.


UAE: A Growing Hub of International Education

The UAE has firmly positioned itself as one of the world’s top destinations for international education. The country boasts over 600 private schools that offer globally recognized curricula such as British, American, IB, Indian, French, German, Canadian, and more.

With students representing over 170 nationalities, the UAE’s education system mirrors its diverse and multicultural society. This level of variety and quality continues to attract international families, which in turn fuels long-term demand for real estate located near top-tier schools.


List of International Schools in the UAE

If you’re planning to invest in property near educational hotspots, here’s a curated, emirate-wise list of well-regarded international schools in the UAE:

Dubai

  • Dubai American Academy

  • GEMS World Academy

  • Repton School Dubai

  • Swiss International Scientific School

  • North London Collegiate School Dubai

  • Dubai International Academy (Emirates Hills & Al Barsha)

  • Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS)

  • Kings’ School Dubai

  • Dubai British School (Jumeirah Park & Emirates Hills)

  • Regent International School

  • Emirates International School – Jumeirah

  • Springdales School Dubai

  • GEMS Wellington International School

  • The English College Dubai

  • The Winchester School – Jebel Ali

Abu Dhabi

  • Abu Dhabi International School

  • American International School, Abu Dhabi

  • Al Bateen World Academy

  • GEMS American Academy, Abu Dhabi

  • The British School – Al Khubairat

  • Raha International School

  • Al Yasmina Academy (Aldar Academies)

  • Canadian International School

  • International Community School

  • Emirates National Schools

  • Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys/Girls

  • Reach British School

  • Merryland International School

  • Bright Riders School

  • Liwa International School

Sharjah

  • Sharjah English School

  • Victoria International School of Sharjah

  • American School of Creative Science

  • International School of Creative Science

  • Al Kamal American International School

  • India International School

  • GEMS Millennium School – Sharjah

Ajman

  • Ajman Academy

  • British International School, Ajman

  • Global Indian School, Ajman

  • Woodlem Park School

  • The Royal Academy, Ajman

Al Ain

  • Al Ain English Speaking School

  • Our Own English High School, Al Ain

  • Liwa International School

  • Al Saad Indian School

Ras Al Khaimah

  • RAK Academy

  • GEMS Westminster School – Ras Al Khaimah

Fujairah

  • Our Own English High School, Fujairah

  • Indian School Fujairah

Umm Al Quwain

  • The Elite American Private School


Popular Curricula Offered

International schools in the UAE offer a wide range of globally recognized educational systems, ensuring parents can find the perfect fit for their children’s learning journey:

  • British Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)

  • American Curriculum (High School Diploma, Advanced Placement)

  • International Baccalaureate (IB) — Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, Diploma Programme

  • Indian Curriculum (CBSE, ICSE)

  • Other Curricula — French, German, SABIS, Canadian

This wide selection of educational pathways enhances the appeal of UAE neighborhoods for expat families, directly influencing local property values.


Final Thought: Schools = Smart Investment

When it comes to real estate in the UAE, proximity to international schools isn’t just about convenience — it’s a smart, strategic investment move. Properties near top educational institutions hold their value, attract long-term tenants, and offer competitive rental yields.

If you’re planning to invest in a school-zone property, now is the perfect time to act. Whether you’re buying for rental income or future resale, our real estate advisory team can help you identify prime opportunities. Reach out today for custom investment maps, detailed market trend reports, and exclusive listings in family-friendly, school-centric communities.

Compare listings

Compare

Request call back