How does the school system work in Sharjah?

The school system in Sharjah is regulated by the Sharjah Private Education Authority ( SPEA ). It is composed mainly of private schools serving both Emirati and expatriate families . Schools must comply with SPEA licensing, inspection processes, and quality standards, while also aligning with federal education regulations set at the UAE level.

Is school free in Sharjah?

Public education in Sharjah is free for Emirati nationals and follows the UAE national curriculum . Private schools, which represent the majority of options for expatriate families , charge tuition fees that are generally lower than those in Dubai .

How much does school cost in Sharjah?

School fees in Sharjah are typically more affordable than in neighbouring emirates such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi . Tuition costs vary depending on the curriculum, grade level, and school facilities. Additional expenses may include uniforms, transportation, school meals, and extracurricular activities .

What age do children start school in Sharjah?

Children in Sharjah usually start school at age 3 or 4 in nursery or early years programmes. Compulsory education generally begins around age 5, depending on the curriculum followed.

What types of schools are available in Sharjah?

Sharjah offers a wide range of private schools , including Indian , British , American , and Arabic curriculum schools. The emirate is particularly known for its strong presence of Indian curriculum ( CBSE ) schools, making it popular among South Asian expatriate families .

What curricula are available in Sharjah schools?

Schools in Sharjah offer Indian ( CBSE ), British , American , and UAE national curricula, as well as some hybrid programmes aligned with international education standards.

Where are schools located in Sharjah?

Schools in Sharjah are mainly located in residential areas such as Al Nahda, Al Majaz, Al Qasimia, Muwaileh, and surrounding districts. Many families choose Sharjah for its proximity to Dubai combined with lower living and education costs.

Are international schools common in Sharjah?

Yes. International schools are widely available in Sharjah , particularly Indian and British curriculum schools. While the overall number is smaller than in Dubai , families often find strong academic standards and good value for money.

How long is the summer break in Sharjah schools?

The summer break in Sharjah typically lasts between 8 and 10 weeks, depending on the curriculum and academic calendar approved by SPEA and federal authorities.

Are schools in Sharjah regulated by the government?

Yes. All private schools in Sharjah are regulated by SPEA , which oversees licensing, inspections , and quality assurance. Schools must also comply with UAE-wide education policies.

Top Schools in sharjah 2026

Providence English Private School

Good

4.8(3220)

University City Area

Annual fees

Contact school

Top Schools in sharjah 2026

Providence English Private School

The Hope English School

Al Mawahib British Pvt. School

Pamir Private School

Al Delta English School

Victoria Int. shj . School

Victoria Int. Shj . School Propritorship L.L.C - Br3 ( Khurfkan)

Victoria Int. Shj . School Propritorship L.L.C (Kalba)

Victoria INT. SHJ. School Propritorship L.L.C Branch4 (Tilal Primary)

Victoria INT.SHJ.School - Almanthiqa Alwastha

Ambassador School - Sharjah

GEMS Cambridge International Private School Sharjah

Pace British School

Aspam Indian Int. Pvt. School.

India International School

Sharjah English School

Al Resalah American International School

Leaders Private School

German INT. School Sharjah

Al Durrah International School

Al Zehour Private School

Gulf Asian English Schools

Pakistan Islamia Higher Secondary School -SHJ.

International School of Creative Science Pvt

French International Private School Georges Pompidou - Sharjah

Pace International School

Our Own English High School

Delhi Pvt.School

Indian Excellent Pvt. School

Al Itqan American School Pvt

Al Ansar int.pvt.School

Al Amaal English High School (PVT)

Beaconhouse Al Khaleej International School

Al Kamal American Private INT School - BR1

Al Amana Private School

The New Filipino Pvt School

Taryam American Private School

Emirates American School

Our Own English High School - B1

Brilliant Int. Private School

Ibn Seena English High School

Wes green Int. Pvt. School.

AL Najma Private School.

New Indian Model School - Sharjah

Al Resalah International private School of Science

Al Rushed American Private School

Emirates Private School

Victoria English Pvt. School

GEMS Westminster School Sharjah

Shj. British Int .Pvt. School

SHJ. INT. PVT. SCHOOL (British)

AL Ahliah Charity Pvt. School

AL Ahliah Charity Pvt. School - Branch 2

Al Ahliah Charity Pvt. School - Falaj Branch

Al Ahliah Charity Pvt. School For Boys – BR4

Al Ahliah Charity Pvt. School For Girls – BR3

Al Ahliah Pvt. Schools

Al Ahliah Pvt. Schools LLC.BR1

Al Amal School For The Deaf

Al Amal School For The Deaf - Branch 1

Al Ansar National Pvt School

Al Basaier Pvt. School

Al Bayan National School

Al Bayan Pvt.School

Al Choueifat Int. School

Al Dhaid Pvt. School

Al Dhia Al Scientific Private School

Al Falah Private School

Al Istiqlal Private School

Al Kamal American Private NT School

Al kamal American Private NT School - Branch 2

Al Marifa Int. Private School (American)

Al Marifa Int. Private School (G.C.S.E)

Al Murooj (Pvt) Eng. Kindergarten & School

Al Mustaqbal Pvt. School

Al Noor Int. School

Al Qemah Private School

Al Rowad British private school

Al Sabah Indian Pvt. School