Last updated: 9 May 2026
Pakistani families in Dubai who want their children educated in the FBISE curriculum have a small but established choice of schools. The advantages are familiar curriculum, easier transition back to Pakistan, lower fees than British or IB options, and a community feel. This guide lists the operating Pakistani-curriculum schools in Dubai, summarises 2026 fee ranges and KHDA ratings, and helps you decide whether FBISE is the right path for your family or whether one of the alternatives suits better.
What is the FBISE curriculum?
FBISE — the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education — is Pakistan’s federal curriculum board. Schools delivering FBISE in Dubai follow the same syllabus as schools in Islamabad and federal areas, with examinations conducted under FBISE supervision.
- Subjects: Urdu, English, Maths, Science, Pakistan Studies, Islamic Studies, Computer/IT, plus optional subjects in higher classes.
- Streams in IX-X: Pre-Medical, Pre-Engineering, Computer Science, Humanities.
- Examinations: SSC (Class 9-10) and HSSC (Class 11-12) certificates issued by FBISE.
- Recognition: HEC of Pakistan, IBCC equivalence to A-Levels for university admissions, accepted by Pakistani universities directly and by many international universities with documentation.
Suitability for return to Pakistan
If you plan to return to Pakistan during your child’s schooling, FBISE is the smoothest path — no curriculum mismatch, easier admissions to Pakistani schools.
Differences from CBSE and British curriculum
CBSE schools (Indian curriculum) are usually similarly priced and have many more options in Dubai. British curriculum is broader, more expensive, and gives a stronger international university route. IB sits at the top in cost and is the most globally portable.
Pakistani schools in Dubai
The list of FBISE-curriculum schools currently operating in Dubai is short. Always confirm operational status and current fees on the school’s own website and on the KHDA directory before applying.
The Pakistan Education Academy (PEA)
- Location: Oud Metha
- Curriculum: FBISE
- Grades: KG to Class 12
- KHDA rating: [verify on khda.gov.ae — recent inspection report]
- Fee range: typically among the most affordable Pakistani-curriculum schools in Dubai [verify current fee structure on school website]
The Pakistani Community School (Dubai)
- Location: [verify current premises with KHDA]
- Curriculum: FBISE
- Grades: KG to Class 12
- KHDA rating: [verify]
- Fee range: [verify on school website]
Note: the Pakistani-curriculum school count in Dubai is small, and a few schools have changed names, merged, or closed over the years. The KHDA online directory at khda.gov.ae is the authoritative source — search “Pakistani” or “FBISE” to see the currently licensed schools and their inspection ratings. [verify operational status of each school listed above on KHDA before applying.]
Fee comparison by stage
Fees for Pakistani-curriculum schools in Dubai are at the lower end of the KHDA fee spectrum. Typical 2026 ranges:
| Stage | Annual fee range (AED) [verify per school] |
|---|---|
| KG / FS1-FS2 | 3,500-7,000 |
| Primary (Grade 1-5) | 4,000-8,000 |
| Lower Secondary (Grade 6-8) | 5,000-10,000 |
| SSC (Grade 9-10) | 6,000-12,000 |
| HSSC (Grade 11-12) | 7,000-14,000 |
Always confirm the exact fee structure for the upcoming academic year on the school’s own website. Fees can be paid in 3 instalments, and many schools offer sibling discounts.
Beyond FBISE: alternatives for Pakistani families
Indian CBSE schools
CBSE schools cluster at a similar fee level, with many more options across Dubai (DPS Dubai, GEMS Our Own, Springdales, Indian High School, etc.). Many Pakistani families opt for CBSE because of broader school choice, similar fee level, and better KHDA rating distribution.
British curriculum (UK / Edexcel / Cambridge)
Significantly more expensive (annual fees often AED 30,000-90,000+) but standard for international university routes. Schools include GEMS Wellington, Dubai British, Jumeirah English Speaking School, and many others.
IB schools
The most expensive tier (often AED 60,000-130,000+ a year). Maximum portability for international universities. Examples: Repton, Dubai American Academy, Greenfield International School.
Admission process
Documents typically required:
- Child’s passport with valid UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID
- Birth certificate (attested for younger children)
- Transfer Certificate (TC) from the previous school
- Vaccination records
- Last two years of report cards
- Parent passport copies
Most schools run an entrance assessment from Grade 2 upwards, especially for late-academic-year admissions. KG and Grade 1 admissions are usually based on a relaxed interaction with the child rather than a formal test.
Application timing
Pakistani-curriculum schools in Dubai typically follow the April-March academic year (mirroring Pakistan), although a few align with the Sept-June UAE majority calendar. Apply 2-4 months ahead of the start date.
KHDA ratings explained
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority inspects every Dubai private school annually and publishes ratings:
- Outstanding — exceptional quality across most measures.
- Very Good — quality above expectations.
- Good — solid, meeting expectations.
- Acceptable — meeting minimum standards but with weaknesses.
- Weak — below expectations.
- Very Weak — significant concerns; remedial action required.
Ratings affect what schools can charge: schools rated “Good” or above can typically increase fees more than schools rated “Acceptable”. The full inspection report is published on khda.gov.ae for every school — read it before enrolling.
Costs beyond the headline fee
- Bus fees: AED 4,000-7,000 per year depending on distance.
- Books and stationery: AED 1,000-2,500 per year.
- Uniforms: AED 500-1,500 per year, including PE kit.
- Examination fees: separate fees for SSC/HSSC sitting (collected by FBISE in addition to school fees).
- Activity / trip fees: AED 500-2,000 per year, often optional.
Many schools offer sibling discounts of 5-15% on the second and subsequent children. Always ask.
FAQ
Can my child take Pakistani board exams in Dubai?
Yes — FBISE conducts SSC and HSSC examinations through approved Pakistani-curriculum schools in Dubai. The certificates are identical to those issued in Pakistan.
What if we move back to Pakistan mid-year?
FBISE schools issue Transfer Certificates that any Pakistani school will accept. Curriculum match means no academic gap.
Are FBISE schools cheaper than CBSE?
Roughly similar at the lower end. The cheapest CBSE schools in Dubai overlap with the higher end of Pakistani-curriculum schools. Pick based on curriculum needs, not just price.
Do these schools teach Arabic and Islamic Studies?
Yes — Arabic is mandatory in all KHDA-licensed schools for Muslim and non-Muslim students from Grade 1 onwards. Islamic Studies is mandatory for Muslim students. FBISE schools generally teach both with extra emphasis given the Pakistani student population.
When does the school year start?
Most Pakistani-curriculum schools in Dubai follow the April-March academic calendar, matching Pakistan’s federal calendar. Some align with September starts — confirm with each school.
Can my child shift from FBISE to British curriculum later?
Yes, but it is easiest before Year 9. After that, the curriculum gap widens (especially in maths and the sciences), and the new school may require an entrance assessment plus a year of catch-up.
Once you have decided on a school, the next step is usually getting your children’s UAE residence visas sorted under your sponsorship. See for the document checklist.