American School of Dubai (ASD)
Key Stats
Annual Fees: US$17K – US$28K
Curriculum: American
Age Range: 3–18
Students: ~2,100
Location: Dubai
Updated February 2026
In Brief
American School of Dubai is the UAE's oldest American curriculum school, founded in 1966 and serving approximately 1,800-2,000 students from over 70 nationalities on a modern 23-acre Al Barsha campus. With Outstanding KHDA rating and dual MSA/SACS accreditation, it offers authentic American education with comprehensive AP programs preparing students for top US universities.
Established in 1966 by Dubai Petroleum Company to serve expatriate American families, ASD has grown from 11 students in a Deira apartment to become Dubai's premier American curriculum institution. The school moved to its purpose-built Al Barsha campus in 2010, featuring extensive facilities including a two-story media center, performance spaces, gymnasium, swimming pool, science laboratories, and student broadcasting studio. With nearly 60 years of operation, ASD maintains the distinction of being the UAE's first and most established American international school.
The school delivers authentic American education from Pre-K through Grade 12, emphasizing student-centered learning, critical thinking, and college preparation through comprehensive Advanced Placement programs. Students participate in a house system based on American founding principles, student government, National Honor Society, and service learning initiatives like the Edible Education program. Arabic language and culture instruction is integrated for elementary grades, while the curriculum maintains strong technology integration dating back to the 1980s. Recent leadership changes saw Dr. Steve Druggan depart in 2025 after three years as superintendent, with the school continuing its mission under established educational frameworks.
What parents value
- –UAE's oldest American curriculum school with 60 years of educational heritage
- –Outstanding KHDA rating and dual accreditation from MSA and SACS
- –Modern 23-acre campus with comprehensive facilities including performance spaces and aquatics center
- –Highly diverse community with students from over 70 nationalities
- –Strong college preparation through extensive AP program offerings
- –Authentic American educational experience with house system and student leadership opportunities
- –Recently recognized as independent not-for-profit institution by Dubai government
Points of consideration
- –Recent superintendent departure in 2025 may create leadership transition period
- –No IB program offered, limiting curriculum options compared to some Dubai competitors
- –Specific fee structure and recent university placement data not publicly detailed
- –American curriculum focus may be less globally portable than IB for some families
Annual Fees
| Year Group | Age | USDTotal Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| PreK | 3 | 16,493 |
| K1 | 3 | 17,452 |
| K2 | 4 | 22,585 |
| Grades 1-12 | 6 | 27,857 |
Fees converted from AED. For the most up to date and accurate figures please double check with the school.
Additional Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Capital Fee | 5,990 |
Photos
Academic Results
Academic results have not been made publicly available by this school.
Extra Curriculars
Contact the school for details on co-curricular activities and facilities. Ask what a normal week looks like outside lessons for your child's interests.
Inspections & Accreditations
Inspection
No published inspection details are currently available.
Accreditations
Accreditation details are not publicly listed.
Memberships
Membership details are not publicly listed.
Student Body
Dubai's international schools serve a highly diverse student body drawn from over 180 nationalities. Contact the school for current enrolment details.
Leadership
Sheryl Gruber - Interim Superintendent
Sheryl Gruber currently serves as Interim Superintendent at the American School of Dubai, having previously held the roles of Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning and Middle School Principal. She has led strategic planning, accreditation, campus development, and expansion of student support services including a Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework.