Relocating to Dubai

[LCHF2018]

We are relocating to Dubai from HK around Easter time. After online learning for most of the last two years I'm keen to get my 9 yr old son in face to face school soon after we arrive if possible. Somewhere academically v g is important as I suspect he has some catching up to do but also keen on somewhere with sporting ethos / pastoral care etc. We are an English/ Aussie family probably looking at Australia long term. Currently he is in IB curriculum but previously was in British curriculum. Any recommendations welcome - looked at Nord Anglia and Aquila/ Dubai British School at Jumeirah Park but any other suggestions? I will be working downtown in DIFC we will prob live around Jumeirah Beach/Palm. Thank you:-)

Hi.. I no longer live in Dubai so my advice may be a few years out of date so take it for what it's worth. I would possibly suggest not living on the Palm if you need to commute due to traffic, although it is lovely, maybe start with a short term rental - air bnb or something for a month or two and see how you fare. Most long term rentals want a one year commitment minimum.

In terms of schools, I recommend JESS - Jumeirah English Speaking School, the Jumeirah branch. www.jess.sch.ae/

They have excellent pastoral care as well as outstanding academic results and also low teacher turnover compared to a lot of Dubai schools unless things have drastically changed in the last few years.

Best of luck with your move!

Thank you for your response will def look at JESS

Aquila is fab but nowhere near where you say you want to live. There aren't any schools on the Palm (and you can add up to 30 mins to your commute just to get off the Palm in the mornings).

You could consider Aquila if you move to Ranches, DSO, The Villa, Mira/Mira Oasis - all lovely family areas. Is being near the beach important to you? It's too blooming hot most of the year anyway!