Dubai English Speaking College (DESC)
International School in Dubai
Quick answer
Key facts
- Curriculum: British leaving qualifications include IGCSE and A-Levels.
- Tuition: $14,000–$21,000/yr published in AED, US$ equivalent.
- Avg class size: 24 (max 25) Dubai international school · 1,850 students total.
- 60 nationalities top: British.
- Ages: 11-18 school day starts at 7:35am.
- Accreditations: COBIS listed accreditations.
1,850
60 (British)
24 avg / 25 max
Fixed intake
COBIS
IGCSE and A-Levels
About Dubai English Speaking College (DESC)
DESC is a vibrant, successful, inclusive community of students, teachers, parents, and alumni who tackle today’s most pressing challenges with courage and creativity. We understand that the greatest gift we can give our children is the joy of learning in an environment where they are known, heard, safe and appropriately challenged, and where their little quirks make them special.
Learning & language support (SEN / EAL)
This school states meaningful learning-support provision — still confirm it fits your child's specific need.
Why this matters
Special-needs provision at international schools varies widely and is rarely guaranteed by the school itself — and local legal duties differ by country. Confirm what this school provides, in writing, before you commit.
- Learning support: moderate
- In-house specialist staff listed
- EAL/ESL support listed
Not published
- —Educational-psychologist availability not stated
Questions to ask the school
- Is an educational psychologist on staff or available by referral?
- Can you support a child with my child's specific need (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD, autism), and have you done so this year? Ask for concrete examples.
- Is there an additional fee for learning support or EAL — and how much per year?
- Is learning support guaranteed for the full enrolment, or can it be withdrawn later?
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual tuition (USD) | $14,000–$21,000 |
| Annual tuition (AED) | Dirham 84326-Dirham 90633 |
| Fee year | 2025-2026 |
| Est. all-in cost (modeled)how we calculate | $21,350(+22%) |
| Est. first-year total (modeled) | $23,850 |
| Cost position in Dubai | 69th percentile(above average) |
Hidden costs & fee notes
Secondary only (Year 7-13). British curriculum, IGCSE/A-Level. KHDA Outstanding. Small school with strong academic results. No primary section.
British
IGCSE and A-Levels
IGCSE, A Levels
Our overall results, from students who are not selected academically, show that 42.0% achieved an A* or A grade; 75.3% of students achieved A* – B, 90.3% achieved A* - C and 99.7% passed with grades A* – E. Most students have received offers from their university of choice and this includes Oxford, Cambridge and US Ivy League.
As part of the National Curriculum of England we offer French and Spanish and the UAE Ministry of Education require Arabic. These languages are all offered at both GCSE and A level qualification grades.
moderate
Yes
We would assess the requirement for assistance for both written and spoken English, this is usually ascertained in our entrance assessments to ensure all students are able to access the curriculum.
7:35am – 3:00pm
Recommended neighborhoods
Academic City, Silicon Oasis, Al Warqa, Mirdif
At a Glance
Fee Position in Dubai
Mid-rangeSchool Profile
Class Size
Student Diversity
Very diverse
Common: British
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Compare with DubaiDisclaimer: School profiles are source-backed decision aids, not endorsements or official rankings. Tuition figures are approximate and may not include registration fees, uniforms, transport, or exam costs. Always verify directly with the school before applying. WhereNext is not affiliated with any school listed. This is not admissions consulting, legal advice, or official school placement guidance.