Welcome from the Headteacher

Dubai English Speaking School (DESS) is very proud to be the oldest British school in the United Arab Emirates, established in 1963 by the British Embassy on a site gifted by Sheikh Rashid, former Ruler of Dubai.

Our school is one of only a few not-for-profit schools in Dubai and, as such, is administered by a Board of Trustees who guarantee there is generous reinvestment in the school, on both a long-term and short-term basis. This has ensured that the facilities in the school are excellent and we continue to make improvements. Rated 'Outstanding', we also pride ourselves at always being at the forefront of educational development in Dubai and on our innovative new learning spaces.

We enjoy an excellent reputation, which we continually strive to ensure that we deserve. Being part of this great school is an honour and we are fully committed to strengthening its legacy. Academic success is important and our outstanding results speak for themselves, but we also place ‘Learning for Life’ as central to our school development. We believe in the development of children who know how to learn in an environment of mutual respect, enthusiasm and commitment to become creative thinkers and problem solvers. Our children learn through an exciting child-led curriculum, personalised to their own interests. 

Dubai English Speaking School is the "Home of Irresistible Learning"

As a fully inclusive school, we believe in success for all, not just academically but in the many other areas of a child’s development. We provide a wide range of extracurricular provision, which includes a variety of cross-curricular opportunities, sports and performing arts. Our excellent standards in teaching and learning, are evidence of the commitment of all our highly dedicated staff in achieving the best standards across all areas of school life.

Having had the privilege of being Headteacher of DESS since 2014, I am hugely proud of the warm and friendly community that we have created which alongside our child centred learning ensures that our children come to school with a smile on their face every morning excited to learn.  I hope that I will have the opportunity to welcome you to DESS too.

Catherine Dando - B.Ed (Hons) and N.P.Q.H
Headteacher