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Arab Unity School

AUS

Secular, Founded 1975

Updated July 2026

4–18Ages
Co-edGender
DayType
4,000Students
For-profitOwnership

Languages

English flagEnglish

Arab Unity School is a long-standing British curriculum school in Dubai, established in 1975, providing education from Foundation Stage 2 through to A-Levels. It is positioned as a high-value institution that combines academic rigour with a supportive, inclusive community for its 4,000+ students.

Teaching approach

The school is founded on the belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves access to a world-class British education. Its core values emphasize academic excellence, personal integrity, and a lifelong love of learning, all delivered within a nurturing and inclusive community. Leadership operates under a student-first philosophy, maintaining an open-door policy and a commitment to continuous improvement and evidence-informed practice.

Programmes

The school follows the British curriculum, beginning with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) for ages 4–5, which focuses on play-based learning in literacy, numeracy, and creative arts. Primary education (Years 1–6) follows the National Curriculum for England, emphasizing core skills in English, Maths, and Science. Secondary students (Years 7–11) pursue a broad curriculum leading to Cambridge IGCSE examinations, while the Sixth Form (Years 12–13) offers Cambridge A-Levels and Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diplomas, supported by university counselling and UCAS application guidance.

Outcomes

Arab Unity School is a Cambridge-accredited institution with a history of academic success, including record-breaking A-Level results. Graduates have secured placements at universities worldwide, including the University of Manchester, University of Alberta, Iowa State University, University of Wollongong, University of Hamburg, University of Pavia, Lapland University of Applied Sciences, Tbilisi State Medical University, and the American University of Sharjah. The school's post-16 provision is rated 'Very Good' by the DSIB.

Student support

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Dedicated department

Learning support

The school maintains an inclusive environment with a dedicated Head of Inclusion and Designated Safeguarding Lead. The inclusion team provides support for students with additional learning needs, including assessments and the development of Individual Learning Plans. The school's commitment to inclusion and wellbeing is reflected in its KHDA rating of 'Very Good' for student personal development and wellbeing.

Frequently asked questions(7)
What curriculum does Arab Unity School offer?
Arab Unity School offers National Curriculum (England), British EYFS, IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
How much is tuition at Arab Unity School?
Annual tuition at Arab Unity School is AED 8.5K–AED 13.1K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
What ages does Arab Unity School teach?
Arab Unity School enrolls students aged 4 to 18.
Is Arab Unity School a day or boarding school?
Arab Unity School is a day school.
What accreditations does Arab Unity School hold?
Arab Unity School holds accreditations including Cambridge International.
Is Arab Unity School co-educational?
Arab Unity School is a co-ed school.
Where is Arab Unity School located?
Arab Unity School is an international school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Tuition & fees

Annual tuition by grade

2025-2026
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
FS2 (Foundation Stage 2)4–5AED 8.5K
Year 15–6AED 9.2K
Year 26–7AED 9.7K
Year 37–8AED 10K
Year 48–9AED 10.5K
Year 59–10AED 10.9K
Year 610–11AED 10.9K
Year 711–12AED 11.2K
Year 812–13AED 11.8K
Year 9 (IGCSE)13–14AED 12.6K
Year 10 (IGCSE)14–15AED 13.1K
Year 11 (IGCSE)15–16AED 12.1K
Year 12 (A-Level)16–17AED 12.8K
Year 13 (A-Level)17–18AED 12.3K
Other fees(3)
Other fees
Registration fee· Applies to new studentsAED 300
Bus / transport· Applies if the student did not use the bus service during the 2025–26 academic yearAED 50
Bus / transport· Transport fees range from AED 3,450 to AED 8,050 depending on area/zone, payable in 3 term instalments.

Admissions

Arab Unity School operates a year-round, open admissions process for students from FS2 through Year 13. Prospective families are invited to enquire online or in person, followed by a school tour and an age-appropriate assessment for the student. Upon receiving a formal offer, families complete enrolment and pay the required fees to secure a place. Applicants must submit attested documents, including passport copies, UAE residence visas, Emirates IDs, and previous school reports or transfer certificates.

Calendar

The academic year typically commences in September for Term 1, with Term 2 beginning in January and Term 3 concluding in June. Key events include IGCSE mock examinations in January, Cambridge examinations starting in April, and a prize-giving ceremony at the end of the academic year. The school operates Monday through Thursday from 7:30 am to 1:50 pm, with an early closure at 11:30 am on Fridays.

Facilities

Science labsSTEM labLibrarySports fieldTheatre / auditoriumPlayground

About the campus

The campus features a range of specialized learning environments, including science laboratories, a robotics studio, a STEM innovation centre, and a library and learning centre. For physical education and athletics, the school provides sports fields and courts. Creative and social spaces include a dedicated art and design studio, an early years play garden, and Taher Hall, which serves as a venue for school productions and events.

Co-curriculars

The school offers a variety of enrichment activities, including a robotics and STEM club that participates in UAE-wide tournaments and a student-led eco committee with a school garden. Sports academies provide training in football, basketball, cricket, swimming, and athletics, while the performing arts programme features music ensembles, drama workshops, and annual productions in Taher Hall. Additionally, students can participate in a chess and strategy club, as well as student leadership opportunities such as the School Council, House Captains, and the student-led newspaper and yearbook teams.

  • Ms. Arwa A. Taher
    Ms. Arwa A. TaherChairman / Owner

    Ms. Arwa A. Taher is the Chairman and Owner of Arab Unity School, carrying forward the family legacy established by her parents in 1975. She is committed to ensuring the school continues to inspire, challenge, and care for its students as a community and family.

  • Kelvin Hornsby
    Kelvin HornsbyGroup CEO / Principal

    Kelvin Hornsby is the Group CEO and Principal of Arab Unity School, bringing 20 years of experience in leading international education. His philosophy focuses on putting people first, maintaining high standards, and driving continuous improvement to ensure outstanding outcomes for learners.

  • Benjamin SharrattVice Principal

    Benjamin Sharratt is a highly accomplished school leader with 12 years of experience in Dubai, having served as a Head of School and Vice Principal. He is a researcher and advisor with the OECD, focusing on evidence-informed practice to drive sustainable school improvement.

  • Tasneem HussainHead of Secondary

    Tasneem Hussain is an experienced school leader with 18 years in education, including over 12 years in Dubai. She has held various leadership roles, including Literacy Coordinator, Deputy Head of Secondary, and Head of Secondary Girls, and is committed to promoting literacy and a high-performing school culture.

  • Lizy RosalineHead of Primary

    Lizy Rosaline is an experienced Head of Primary with over 25 years of experience across multiple curricula. She holds several leadership qualifications, including NPQH and NPSL, and focuses on strengthening instructional excellence and fostering confident, independent learners at AUS.

  • Uzma BatoolHead of Foundation Stage 2

    Uzma Batool is a seasoned Early Years leader with over 20 years of experience across Pakistan, Dubai, and Canada. She holds a background in Education, Literature, and Child Psychology, and is dedicated to nurturing character, well-being, and the potential of every child.

  • Dhanya AugustusHead of Inclusion / DSO

    Dhanya Augustus is the Head of Inclusion and Designated Safeguarding Lead, bringing over 15 years of experience in special educational needs. She holds a Master's in Psychology and is a MOE-licensed Special Educator committed to ensuring all students are supported and empowered in a safe environment.