All about GEMS Indian curriculum schools in Dubai
GEMS Education has grown to become one of the largest K12 academic providers in the world. A home-grown UAE-based brand, GEMS Education operates leading international schools across multiple curriculums. Those with academics based on the Indian CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) and ICSE (Indian School Certificate Examinations) are some of them. Here is an overview of the GEMS Indian curriculum schools in Dubai with ICSE and CBSE, along with KHDA ratings for each.
GEMS Indian curriculum schools in Dubai
GEMS Modern Academy
With an “Outstanding” rating from the Dubai School Inspection Bureau (DSIB), the GEMS Modern Academy is first on our list of best Indian curriculum schools in Dubai. The school is affiliated with the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations. Students at the GEMS Modern Academy are prepared for the ISC exam in the Higher Secondary School and the ICSE exam in the Secondary School.
The language of teaching at the GEMS Modern Academy is English. The academy has a flexible payment plan starting with an AED 525 VAT inclusive application fee followed by a 10% registration deposit of the total tuition fees.
After they reach Grade 11, students are given the option of taking the IB Diploma Programme.
- Curriculum: CISCE (from pre-kindergarten to Grade 12) | IB (for Grade 11 and Grade 12)
- KHDA rating: Outstanding
- Fees: AED 30,983 to AED 73,876
- Location: Nad Al Sheba, Dubai
- Contact: +971-4-326-3339
GEMS Our Own English High School Dubai
With a KHDA rating of “Very Good,” the GEMS Our Own English High School is next on our list of GEMS Indian curriculum schools in Dubai. Established in 1968, the school offers classes from KG1 to Grade 12. The fee here for different grades is subject to KHDA guidelines starting with a VAT-inclusive AED 525 application fee.
The curriculum here culminates into the All India Secondary School Examination and the All Indian Senior School Certificate Examination. Both of these curriculums are based on the CBSE. Graduates from the school have been accepted into more than 1,000 universities in 53 countries.
- Curriculum: CBSE
- KHDA rating: Very Good
- Fees: AED 7,828 to AED 16,562
- Location: 41 Street, Al Warqa’a 3, Dubai
- Contact: +971-4-236-1335
Our Own High School
GEMS Our Own High School in Al Warqa welcomes boys aged 5 to 17, offering CBSE from kindergarten all the way to Grade 12.
They stick closely to the Indian curriculum, backed by GEMS’ global teaching style. Students are assessed through the Continuous & Comprehensive Evaluation (CCS) system, ensuring they get regular support.
The school shines outside academics, too—with art contests, talent shows, environmental clubs, public speaking and a huge range of sports from volleyball to gymnastics. The campus comes with basketball courts, a tennis court, an indoor hall, sports fields and more. You can see why it’s considered among the top CBSE GEMS schools.
- Curriculum: CBSE
- KHDA rating: Good
- Fees: AED 7,828 to AED 16,299
- Location: Al Warqa 1
- Contact: +971-4-280-0077
GEMS New Millennium School
The GEMS New Millennium School offers academics from Pre KG to Grade 12. An enriched Indian CBSE curriculum is offered from Grade 1 to Grade 8. The Secondary phase allows for a dual pathway after the eighth grade. Regarding examinations conducted by the CBSE New Delhi, students appear for the following evaluations.
- All India Secondary Schools Examination in Grade 10
- All India Senior School Certificate Examination in Grade 12
Students at the GEMS New Millennium School can opt for the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) in Year 10 and 11.
- Curriculum: CBSE | IGCSE
- KHDA rating: Very Good
- Fees: AED 19,672 to AED 32,580
- Location: Al Khail Road, Dubai
- Contact: +971-4-445-2900
GEMS Our Own Indian School Dubai
The GEMS Our Own Indian School promises to provide a “holistic” learning experience for students from early years to Grade 12. Admissions at the school include an AED 500 application fee which is inclusive of VAT.
Aside from a streamlined registration process, GEMS Our Own Indian School has a merit-based scholarship programme in which awardees can benefit from a 25% to 100% concession of their annual school fees for a single academic year. Renewals in consecutive years depend on academic progress.
The school is commendable for its sports programmes and extracurricular activities — ranging from arts and crafts to music and dance.
Children with special needs are considered for admission with other potential students according to the school’s admissions policy. All applicants are required to undergo placement tests with placements in classes made according to a child’s academic history. Online registration for admission to new academic years commences from October/November each year with an AED 500 VAT inclusive application fee charged for the assessment process.
- Curriculum: CBSE
- KHDA rating: Very Good
- Fees: AED 6,523 to AED 13,297
- Location: Al Quoz
- Contact: +971-4-339-1188
The Millennium School
The Millennium School in Dubai follows the CBSE curriculum, designed to spark curiosity and a love for learning. It blends global perspectives with local culture, making lessons meaningful for its diverse community. Students are encouraged to think critically, work together and connect ideas across subjects.
The programme includes UAE Social Studies, Moral Education, and inclusive projects like the Best Buddies Program with the Manzil Center. Creativity thrives through activities like Genius Hour and the ICE (Innovate-Create-Explore) Center.
Reading skills grow with Oxford Reading Tree and I Read Arabic. Field trips and theme days bring lessons to life beyond the classroom.
- Curriculum: CBSE
- KHDA rating: Very Good
- Fees: AED 18,278 to AED 26,876
- Location: Al Qusais
- Contact: +971-4-298-8576
New Dubai Nursery
New Dubai Nursery welcomes little ones aged about 3 to 5 with a nurturing, hands-on learning vibe. They follow the British EYFS framework with a touch of Indian curriculum and guide kids into learning through play. Expect STEAM, robotics, music and movement, plus some Arabic and French sprinkled in. The school offers grades from FS1 to FS2.
Think of it as a cosy, “home-away-from-home” where children are free to explore, build independence and fall in love with learning. The team includes early years educators, assistants, a nurse and an on-call doctor, all ready to support the little ones.
- Curriculum: Early Years Foundation Stage
- Fees: AED 18,278 to AED 26,876
- Location: Mankhool
- Contact: +971-4-398-4900
Curriculum and Academic Offerings in Indian Curriculum GEMS Schools in Dubai
GEMS schools in Dubai offer two major Indian curricula. The CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) focuses on preparing students for the all-India exams in Grade 10 and Grade 12. It’s known for its clear, consistent structure and strong track record with competitive university admissions.
The CISCE (Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations) emphasises depth in languages, sciences, arts and humanities. It’s celebrated for a well-rounded, practical approach.
Admission and Enrolment
The admissions process at the schools typically begins with an online registration or enquiry form, which opens around October or November each year.
Applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of approximately AED 500 – AED 525 and submit the necessary documents. These usually include the student’s passport, visa, Emirates ID, vaccination record, recent school reports and a transfer certificate. Transfer certificates from India, other GCC countries or outside Dubai must be attested.
As for fees, check out our guide on GEMS school fees discounts in Dubai and other associated costs.
FAQs
What are the best Indian Curriculum GEMS schools in Dubai?
Among GEMS Indian-curriculum schools in Dubai, GEMS Modern Academy stands out as the only one rated Outstanding by KHDA. It offers the CISCE (ICSE/ISC) curriculum alongside the IB for senior grades, with a strong record in academics and extracurriculars.
Are GEMS Indian schools affordable?
GEMS Indian schools in Dubai range from accessible to premium, offering options for different budgets and priorities. Schools like GEMS Our Own Indian School and GEMS Our Own English High School provide quality CBSE education at a more affordable level.
GEMS New Millennium School offers a mid-tier experience with added curriculum flexibility.
Do they offer extracurricular activities?
Yes, GEMS Indian curriculum schools in Dubai place a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities alongside academics. Students can get involved in a wide mix of options, including sports like cricket, basketball, swimming, and athletics. Cultural activities include music, dance, drama and art.
Which are the best Indian schools in Dubai?
Apart from the mentioned places, the list of top Indian schools in Dubai includes IHS and Delhi Private School among others.
Where can I send my kids to school in the emirate?
The best secondary schools in Dubai cater to expat families from diverse backgrounds. You can start your search here or among the best schools in Dubai that offer various curriculums.
Is GEMS Heritage Indian school offering admissions?
This school has suspended all academic activities since its closure in 2021.
That’s all for our review of GEMS Indian schools in Dubai. Looking for other institutions offering specific educational programmes? Check out American schools in Dubai.
For more updates on educational institutes in the UAE, stay tuned to MyBayut.
Cover image credit: GEMS Modern Academy website
