Horizons English School
Key Stats
Annual Fees: US$12K – US$16K
Curriculum: International
Age Range: 3–11
Students: ~1,300
Location: Dubai
Updated February 2026
In Brief
Horizon English School Dubai is a well-established British curriculum primary school (ages 3-11) in Umm Al Sheif that has earned an Outstanding KHDA rating and strong parent loyalty over its 35+ year history. Now part of the Cognita group since 2014, the school benefits from international investment while maintaining its reputation as one of Dubai's respected home-grown institutions.
Founded around 1991, HES operates from a prime location in Umm Al Sheif near the Burj Al Arab, serving families seeking quality British primary education. The school follows the National Curriculum for England from Early Years Foundation Stage through Year 6, with students typically progressing to its sister school Horizon International School for secondary education. Under Cognita ownership since 2014, HES has maintained stability and academic standards that earned it the coveted Outstanding rating from KHDA - a distinction shared by few Dubai schools.
Parent discussions reveal HES as a popular choice among expatriate families, with many viewing it as excellent preparation for secondary British curriculum schools. The Cognita connection provides access to a global network of over 85 schools and enhanced resources, while recent partnerships include a planned second campus in Town Square opening in partnership with Nshama. The school supports Students of Determination through Quality First Teaching approaches and maintains the diverse international community typical of premium Dubai primary schools, though specific enrollment numbers and fee structures require direct inquiry with admissions.
What parents value
- –Outstanding KHDA rating demonstrates exceptional academic and operational standards
- –Over 35 years of established reputation as a respected home-grown Dubai institution
- –Prime Umm Al Sheif location convenient for families in central Dubai
- –Cognita group ownership provides international network benefits and investment
- –Strong preparation for British secondary schools, particularly sister school HIS
- –Diverse international community serving expatriate families
- –Planned expansion with new Town Square campus shows growth and demand
Points of consideration
- –Primary-only school requires transition planning for secondary education
- –Limited recent visibility in parent forums compared to some Dubai schools
- –Fee structure and specific enrollment numbers not readily available
- –Cognita ownership means less independence than purely local institutions
- –May have waiting lists given Outstanding rating and established reputation
Annual Fees
| Year Group | Age | USDTotal Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| FS1 | 3 | 11,940 |
| FS2 | 4 | 14,204 |
| Year 1 | 5 | 16,018 |
| Year 2 | 6 | 16,018 |
| Year 3 | 7 | 16,018 |
| Year 4 | 8 | 16,018 |
| Year 5 | 9 | 16,018 |
| Year 6 | 10 | 16,018 |
Fees converted from AED. For the most up to date and accurate figures please double check with the school.
Additional Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | 143 |
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
Nick Hart - Principal
Nick Hart has 20 years of educational experience and joined Horizon English School as Principal in summer 2023. He holds a Master's in International Educational Leadership from University College London and has executive leadership experience in the UK.