The American School of Dubai (ASD) is an independent, not-for-profit, US curriculum, PreK-12 international community school. Established in 1966, it has been helping students become future-ready as empathetic, self-aware, resilient, innovative communicators, and global citizens. The school serves 2,065 students from 87 countries on a purpose-built campus opened in August 2010.
Located in Dubai, the modern, global business and cultural hub of the United Arab Emirates, the American School of Dubai is a popular choice for students and parents seeking an American education. The school offers an American curriculum, Early Learning through Grade 12, and provides a range of programs and services to support student learning and development. The school’s mission is to challenge and inspire students to achieve their dreams and become passionate learners prepared to adapt and contribute to a rapidly changing world.
ASD is committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in college and beyond. The school’s curriculum is designed to meet the needs of students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and a team of experienced and dedicated teachers passionate about teaching and learning supports it. ASD offers a range of programs and services to support student learning, including a comprehensive counseling program, a robust athletics program, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
History and Governance
Founding
The American School of Dubai (ASD) was founded in 1966 as the Jumeirah American School (JAS) in Dubai, UAE. It was established to provide an American-style education to expatriate families in Dubai. The school started with only a handful of students, but over the years, it has become one of the most prestigious American schools in the region.
Board of Trustees
ASD is a not-for-profit institution that a Board of Trustees governs. The Board is responsible for setting the school’s strategic direction and ensuring that it operates according to its mission and values. The Board is comprised of 11 members who are elected for a three-year term. The members of the Board represent a diverse range of backgrounds and professions, and they bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the school.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the following:
- Setting the school’s strategic direction
- Ensuring that the school operates by its mission and values
- Approving the school’s budget and financial statements
- Hiring and evaluating the school’s Director
- Overseeing the school’s operations and programs
ASD is committed to providing a high-quality American-style education to its students. The school has a diverse student body, with students from over 87 countries. It is also committed to sustainability and has won awards for its efforts. The school’s purpose-built campus has state-of-the-art facilities, including science and technology labs, a performing arts center, and sports facilities.
Academic Programs
Curriculum Overview
The American School of Dubai (ASD) offers a comprehensive US curriculum to prepare students for academic achievement and success in their future careers. The curriculum is aligned with Common Core State Standards and tailored to meet the needs of Kindergarten to Grade 12 students.
Early Learning
ASD’s Early Learning program is designed to provide a nurturing and stimulating environment for students from Pre-K to Kindergarten. The program focuses on developing students’ social, emotional, and cognitive skills through play-based learning and exploration.
Elementary School
The Elementary School program at ASD provides a rigorous academic program for students from Grade 1 to Grade 5. The program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a variety of topics, including Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Arabic.
Middle School
The Middle School program at ASD is designed to provide a challenging academic program for students from Grade 6 to Grade 8. The program focuses on developing students’ independence and self-confidence through various subjects, including Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Arabic, and French.
High School
ASD’s High School program offers a rigorous academic program for students in grades 9-12. The program is intended to prepare students for success in college and beyond, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. The program offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses and opportunities for students to engage in independent research projects.
ASD’s academic programs are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their future careers. The school’s focus on academic achievement and community service helps students develop into empathetic, self-aware, resilient, innovative communicators and global citizens.
Admissions
Application Process
To apply for admission to the American School of Dubai (ASD), interested candidates must fill out the online application form available on the school’s official website. The application process consists of providing the appropriate documents and paying a non-refundable application fee. The school accepts applications all year, although early applicants are given precedence.
Tuition and Fees
ASD is a not-for-profit school, and the tuition fees are set to cover the cost of education. The academic year 2024-2025 tuition fee is AED 100,000 for Pre-K to Grade 5 and AED 110,000 for Grades 6 to 12. In addition to tuition fees, there is a one-time facility fee of AED 10,000 and a one-time capital fee of AED 5,000. The school also charges an annual technology fee of AED 2,000.
Eligibility
ASD accepts students from throughout the world who meet the eligibility requirements. The school follows the American curriculum and educates Pre-K to Grade 12 students. The school also serves pupils with special needs and offers an English as a Second Language (ESL) program. The school does not discriminate based on race, color, nationality, or religion.
ASD is committed to providing a quality education to its students and ensures that the admission process is fair and transparent. The school encourages parents and students to visit the campus and attend the open house events to learn more about the school’s programs and facilities.
Campus and Facilities
Al Barsha Campus
The American School of Dubai (ASD) moved to its current 23-acre Al Barsha campus in 2010. The campus is a million-square-foot state-of-the-art facility in a residential area of Dubai. It is conveniently located near the intersection of First Al Khail and Hessa Street, opposite the Saudi German Hospital. The campus is wireless, providing students and teachers with high-speed internet access.
Classrooms and Libraries
ASD has spacious classrooms equipped with modern technology to enhance the learning experience. The school includes a well-stocked library containing hundreds of books, periodicals, and other resources. Professional librarians staff the library, assisting students with their research and other academic needs.
Sports and Arts Facilities
ASD has excellent sports and arts facilities catering to its students’ diverse interests. The school has a field house, soccer fields, playing fields, and play areas for students to engage in various sports activities. The fieldhouse has a climbing wall, running tracks, and a swimming pool. The school also has tennis courts and an organic garden.
ASD has dedicated art studios and a band room that allows students to explore their creativity. The school has a dance studio where students can learn various dance forms.
Cafeterias
ASD has multiple cafeterias that serve healthy and nutritious meals to students and staff. The school has a strict policy of serving only organic and locally sourced food to promote healthy eating habits among students.
ASD’s Al Barsha campus provides an excellent learning environment for its K-12 students. The school’s cutting-edge facilities, spacious classrooms, and dedicated professors create an ideal setting for students to excel academically while also pursuing their interests in sports and the arts.
Extracurricular Activities
ASD provides its students with a wide range of extracurricular activities, enabling them to explore their interests and passions outside the classroom. These activities are part of the school’s curriculum and are intended to help children develop their skills and talents in a supportive and nurturing setting.
Athletics
The school’s teams compete in local and international tournaments, and the students have the opportunity to represent the school in various sports, such as basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, and track and field. The school has state-of-the-art facilities for training and competition, including a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and outdoor fields.
Arts and Culture
ASD recognizes the importance of the arts and culture in developing a well-rounded individual. The school offers a range of opportunities for students to explore their creative side, including drama, music, and visual arts. The school has a dedicated arts center that houses a theater, music rooms, and art studios. The students can participate in various productions throughout the year, including musicals, plays, and art exhibitions.
Clubs and Organizations
ASD has a thriving student life, with a variety of clubs and organizations for students to join. These clubs offer a wide range of topics, including community service, environmentalism, technology, and entrepreneurship. Participating in these groups and organizations allows kids to enhance their leadership skills while also making new friends and improving their social skills.
Overall, ASD’s extracurricular activities program is an integral part of the school’s curriculum, providing students with a well-rounded education beyond the classroom. The school’s commitment to athletics, arts, and culture, as well as its diverse range of clubs and organizations, ensures that there is something for every student to participate in and enjoy.
Community and Culture
The American School of Dubai (ASD) prides itself on its diverse and inclusive community, which comprises students from 87 different nationalities. The school values diversity and celebrates all community members, regardless of ethnicity, religion, color, culture, national origin, age, identity or expression, or ability.
Diversity and Nationalities
ASD’s commitment to diversity is evident in its diverse student body, which includes a variety of nations. This diversity fosters a distinct learning environment in which students learn to recognize and respect diverse cultures and ideas. ASD promotes cultural awareness and understanding through a variety of programs and activities, assisting students in developing global citizenship skills.
Parental Involvement
ASD recognizes parents’ vital role in their child’s education and encourages parental involvement in school activities. The school’s Parent Teacher Association (PTA) provides a platform for parents to engage with the school community and support their child’s learning. The PTA arranges a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including as cultural festivals, sports contests, and fundraising events.
Student Life
ASD offers a vibrant and engaging student life program that provides students with various extracurricular activities and clubs. These activities help students to develop their interests and talents, build friendships, and enhance their overall school experience. The school also offers a range of sports teams, including basketball, soccer, swimming, and volleyball, which compete in local and international tournaments.
In conclusion, ASD’s community and culture are critical to the school’s identity. The school’s varied and inclusive community, emphasis on parental involvement, and active student life program all contribute to a supportive and enjoyable learning environment for all students.
Leadership and Staff
Superintendent
The American School of Dubai (ASD) is led by a superintendent responsible for the school’s overall management and direction. The current Superintendent has extensive expertise and a track record of success in school leadership. Under his guidance, ASD has maintained its reputation as one of Dubai’s finest international schools.
Faculty
ASD has a highly qualified and dedicated faculty committed to providing its students with the best possible education. The faculty is made up of enthusiastic educators and teaching assistants who are dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment for the students.
The school has a favorable staff-to-student ratio of 1:12, allowing for personalized attention and support for each student. The teachers at ASD are certified and have a wealth of experience in their respective subjects. Additionally, the school offers its faculty members opportunities for continuous professional development so they may stay current with the newest instructional techniques and technological advancements.
In conclusion, the leadership and staff at ASD are highly committed to providing the best possible education to its students. The institution has a track record of successfully preparing students for success in a world that is changing quickly.
Technology and Innovation
Future Ready Education
The American School of Dubai (ASD) is committed to providing a future-ready education for its students. With its multidisciplinary learning opportunities that examine the connections between technology, art, and engineering disciplines, ASD is clearly focused on technology and innovation. These classes are acceptable and fulfill the elective, technology, and art requirements for graduation. Students’ agency to study is fostered by the course offerings.
ASD’s curriculum is designed to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. The school’s approach to education is centered on providing students with the skills they need to thrive in a world increasingly reliant on technology. ASD believes technology is an essential tool for learning and innovation, and the school is dedicated to providing students access to the latest technology.
Science and Technology Initiatives
ASD’s commitment to technology and innovation is also evident in its science and technology initiatives. The school has a dedicated science and technology lab that provides students with hands-on experience in various areas, including robotics, coding, and 3D printing. ASD also strongly focuses on sustainability and has won awards for its sustainability efforts.
ASD’s commitment to technology and innovation has helped the school to stay at the forefront of education. The school is always seeking for new and innovative ways to incorporate technology into the curriculum and provide kids the tools they need to thrive in a world that is changing quickly. ASD equips its students to be leaders in their fields and have a good impact on the world by providing an education that is equipped for the future.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
The American School of Dubai (ASD) promotes sustainability and social responsibility within its community. ASD has implemented several initiatives to promote environmental awareness, community engagement, and sustainable practices.
Environmental Initiatives
ASD has integrated sustainability into its core curriculum, encouraging students to become environmental stewards. The school has a bee garden where students can inspect beehives, learn about the importance of bees to the environment, and understand the role of pollination in food production. Additionally, ASD encourages students to recycle products like paper, plastic, and glass in order to lessen waste.
In addition to these initiatives, ASD has participated in the Zayed Sustainability Prize and the Sustainability Champions Competition. The Zayed Sustainability Prize is an annual award recognizing organizations promoting sustainability and social impact. ASD was awarded the prize in 2019 for its leadership in sustainability. The Sustainability Champions Competition program encourages students to develop and implement sustainability projects in their communities.
Community Engagement
ASD is committed to engaging with the local community and promoting social responsibility. The school has partnered with several organizations to promote sustainable practices and community engagement. ASD has partnered with Dubai Municipality to promote recycling and waste reduction and with Dubai Cares to promote education and literacy in underprivileged communities.
ASD also participates in several community service projects throughout the year. The school’s service learning program encourages students to volunteer their time and skills to help those in need. ASD students have volunteered at local charities, schools, and hospitals and have participated in environmental clean-up projects.
In conclusion, ASD’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is evident in its initiatives and programs. The school’s efforts to promote environmental awareness, community engagement, and sustainable practices have earned recognition and praise from the community and beyond.
Recognition and Achievements
Awards and Accolades
The American School of Dubai (ASD) has been recognized for its outstanding efforts to provide quality education. In 2019, ASD was named one of Dubai’s Best International Schools.
ASD has also won awards for its sustainability efforts. From 2018 to 2019, the school was recognized for its commitment to sustainability and was awarded for its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. The school’s efforts included the installation of solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and recycling programs.
Academic Excellence
ASD is committed to providing its students with an education that promotes their maximum potential. The school’s rigorous academic program has consistently produced exceptional results. In 2021, the school’s graduating class achieved an impressive 100% acceptance rate to universities worldwide.
The school’s academic program is designed to challenge and inspire students to become empathetic, self-aware, resilient, innovative communicators, and global citizens. The curriculum is based on US standards, and the school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses to its high school students.
ASD’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its highly qualified faculty members, who hold advanced degrees in their respective fields. The school’s faculty is dedicated to providing students with the best possible education and preparing them for success in their future endeavors.
Overall, ASD’s commitment to providing quality education and promoting academic excellence has earned it a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading international schools in Dubai.
Policies and Procedures
Admission Policies
Students of any nationality are admitted to the independent, non-profit American community school known as the American School of Dubai (ASD). The school’s curriculum, which is based on US standards, gets pupils ready for post-secondary education. A controlled number of students who require additional learning support at each grade level can be enrolled in ASD’s learning support program.
Parents must fill out the online application form and send in the necessary paperwork in order to apply for admission to ASD. AED 500 non-refundable application fee is required by the school. After reviewing the application, the admissions office will get in touch with the parents to arrange for the child’s evaluation. Additional information or documentation, such as past school reports or results from standardized tests, may also be requested by the school.
ASD prioritizes siblings of current students, children of faculty and staff, and children of alums. In terms of admissions, curricula, or extracurricular activities, the school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
Safety and Security
The security and safety of ASD’s employees, instructors, and students are of utmost importance. The school has a thorough safety and security strategy in place, which includes CCTV cameras in key locations throughout the campus, security guards, and ID badges for all students and staff.
Additionally, the school has a crisis management strategy that describes how to handle situations like fires, natural catastrophes, and intrusions on campus. Regular training sessions and drills are part of the plan for staff, faculty, and students.
ASD has stringent guidelines regarding guests on campus. Before entering the campus, all visitors must register at the security gate and get a visitor’s badge. The school also requires all volunteers and contractors to undergo background checks before being allowed on campus.
Overall, ASD’s policies and procedures are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of its students while providing a challenging and inspiring educational experience.
Location and Contact
Campus Map and Tours
The American School of Dubai (ASD) is in the Al Barsha community of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus is easily accessible by car, and ample parking is available for visitors. The school’s location is conveniently close to many popular residential areas in Dubai, making it an ideal choice for families seeking an American-style education for their children.
ASD offers campus tours for prospective families wanting to learn more about the school’s facilities and programs. These tours provide an opportunity to see the campus firsthand and to speak with faculty and staff members. Interested families can schedule a tour by contacting the school’s admissions office.
Contact Information
ASD’s primary contact information is as follows:
- Address: American School of Dubai, PO Box 71188, Al Barsha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Phone: +971 4 395 0005
- Email: [email protected]
The school’s Health Office can be reached at [email protected] or +971 4 526 3000, ext. 1030.
ASD’s location and contact information can also be found on the school’s website.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tuition fees for attending the American School of Dubai?
The tuition fees for attending the American School of Dubai vary depending on the student’s grade level. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the tuition fees range from AED 91,400 for Pre-K to AED 135,000 for Grade 12. Additional costs for transportation, textbooks, and extracurricular activities may apply.
How does the American School of Dubai rank according to KHDA ratings?
The expansion and caliber of private education in Dubai are under the jurisdiction of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), a government organization in Dubai. Since 2011, the KHDA has continuously rated The American School of Dubai as “Outstanding.”
What career opportunities are available at the American School of Dubai?
The American School of Dubai offers career opportunities to educators, administrators, and support staff. Available positions are posted on the school’s website and require applicants to meet specific qualifications and experience requirements.
What salary range can be expected for teachers at the American School of Dubai?
Teachers at The American School of Dubai receive attractive pay packages based on their experience and qualifications. The pay scale for teachers at the school varies according to the subject and grade level they instruct.
What are the reviews saying about the quality of education at the American School of Dubai?
The American School of Dubai has received positive reviews from parents and students alike. Many praise the school’s rigorous academic program, experienced faculty, and a strong sense of community. The school is also recognized for its commitment to student well-being and diversity.
Does the American School of Dubai offer an International Baccalaureate (IB) program?
Yes, students in Grades 11 and 12 at the American School of Dubai can enroll in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The program offers a demanding and extensive curriculum with the goal of preparing students for studies at the university level.
