
Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches
Secular, Founded 1976
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
JESS is a long-standing, not-for-profit international school in Dubai that provides an 'outstanding' education for students aged 3 to 18. It is recognized for its inclusive community, academic excellence, and commitment to preparing students to make a positive impact on the world.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school’s vision is to educate students to 'Make a Difference in the World,' focusing on developing individuals who act with purpose and integrity. Its core values—Commitment, Respect, Excellence, Care, Integrity, and Curiosity—guide the school's culture of nurture and aspiration. As a not-for-profit institution, JESS is governed by a Board of unpaid trustees, ensuring that all resources are reinvested into the quality of education and the development of the school.
Programmes
JESS provides an educational journey for students from Foundation Stage 1 through to Year 13. The curriculum is designed to foster curiosity and independent learning in the Early Years and Primary stages, while Secondary and Sixth Form students are offered pathways that emphasize academic rigor and preparation for future success. The school is internationally recognized for its excellence in digital learning and offers a holistic education that balances academic subjects with personal development.
Outcomes
JESS is consistently rated 'Outstanding' by the Dubai School Inspection Bureau and is ranked among the top 15 private schools in the Middle East and the top 100 globally. Graduates are prepared for university and life beyond academia, with the school maintaining a strong track record of academic achievement and student success. The school is also accredited by organizations such as BSO, COBIS, and HMC.
Student support
Learning support
The school prioritizes student wellbeing and inclusion as core components of its educational approach. Dedicated counselling services are available to support students, and the school has been recognized with awards for its commitment to inclusion and student wellbeing.
Frequently asked questions(7)
- What curriculum does Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches offer?
- Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches offers National Curriculum (England).
- How much is tuition at Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches?
- Annual tuition at Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches is AED 54.1K–AED 104.5K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches teach?
- Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- Is Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches a day or boarding school?
- Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches is a day school.
- What accreditations does Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches hold?
- Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches holds accreditations including COBIS and British Schools Overseas.
- Is Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches co-educational?
- Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches is a co-ed school.
- Where is Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches located?
- Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches is an international school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025/2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| FOUNDATION 1 | 3–4 | AED 54.1K |
| PRIMARY (FOUNDATION 2 to Year 6) | 4–11 | AED 65.1K |
| SECONDARY (Years 7 – 11) | 11–16 | AED 91.9K |
| SIXTH FORM (Years 12 – 13) | 16–18 | AED 104.5K |
Other fees(1)
| Application fee· non-refundable, One payment | AED 500 |
|---|
Admissions
JESS is a non-selective school that maintains a diverse student body. Due to high demand and extensive waiting lists, applications are currently restricted to Corporate Debenture holders, Emirati Nationals, and siblings of existing students applying for FS1 or Year 7. The school does not accept applications for Years 11 or 13, and all admissions are subject to the requirement that a student's place be supported by a debenture.
About the campus
JESS operates across two campuses in Dubai: the Jumeirah campus, established in 1976, and the Arabian Ranches campus, opened in 2005. Both sites provide environments for learning, with the Arabian Ranches campus hosting all Secondary and Sixth Form education. The school is recognized as a Microsoft Showcase School, reflecting its integration of digital technology into its facilities and teaching practices.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a wide range of co-curricular activities designed to support student development beyond the classroom. These include programmes in sport and the performing arts, which are integrated into the broader school life. Students are encouraged to participate in these activities to build resilience, empathy, and leadership skills.
Shane O’BrienDIRECTORAs Director, Shane O'Brien oversees the school's vision of 'Educating to Make a Difference in the World' and emphasizes the school's commitment to nurture, aspiration, and high standards. He highlights the school's long-standing history as a not-for-profit institution and its focus on discovering the brilliance in every student.
Luke ReesPRIMARY HEADTEACHER (JUMEIRAH)Luke Rees serves as the Primary Headteacher at the Jumeirah campus and is also listed as part of the Jumeirah Primary Senior Leadership Team.
Jose DiezPRIMARY HEADTEACHER (ARABIAN RANCHES)Jose Diez serves as the Primary Headteacher at the Arabian Ranches campus and is also listed as part of the Arabian Ranches Primary Senior Leadership Team.
Stephen GreenSECONDARY HEADTEACHER (ARABIAN RANCHES)Stephen Green serves as the Secondary Headteacher at the Arabian Ranches campus and is also listed as part of the Arabian Ranches Secondary Senior Leadership Team.
Kendyl BlackburnHEAD OF GOVERNANCE AND ADMINISTRATION
Tina BrownHEAD OF FINANCE AND OPERATIONS
Carol FosterDEPUTY HEAD (JUMEIRAH)
Suzanne CarriganDEPUTY HEAD (JUMEIRAH)
Jason SlaterASSISTANT HEAD (JUMEIRAH)
Sam O’BrienASSISTANT HEAD (JUMEIRAH)
Liz MorrisDEPUTY HEAD EYFS & KS1 (ARABIAN RANCHES)
Ross O’DonnellDEPUTY HEAD KS2 (ARABIAN RANCHES)
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National Curriculum (England)
COBIS
British Schools Overseas