As the new academic year approaches in the UAE, many affordable schools are experiencing a rush of last-minute admissions. School staff are working tirelessly to accommodate the influx of new students, with some schools even opening extra classes to meet the demand. Sahar El Gayyar, director of admissions at Next Generation School Dubai, mentioned that the increase in admissions is typical as the academic year approaches. The rush is often caused by families relocating to the area or the country, as well as individuals making late decisions about enrolling their children in school.
With most UAE students returning to school after a seven-week summer vacation on August 26, many families are trying to secure admissions for their children at the last minute. Hope English School in Sharjah also reported a surge in admissions, particularly for lower grades. The admissions officer, Alice, highlighted the challenges faced in handling the documentation process for new students who have relocated to the UAE from other countries.
The back to school period can be financially straining for parents, with expenses such as school fees, uniforms, and textbooks adding up quickly. Some parents, like Niggat Abbas, are negotiating payment plans with schools and universities to ease the financial burden. Others are cutting costs by purchasing second-hand books, uniforms from independent stores, and seeking good deals on stationery and school supplies. Divya P., a parent with children in a British syllabus school, saves money by ordering textbooks from India.
Amidst the rush for admissions, there is a noticeable increase in demand for affordable schools in the UAE. Parents like Mohammed Iqbal are opting to move their children to schools with lower fees to save on expenses. In response to this demand, Gems Education has introduced the Founders School model with an average annual fee of around Dh30,000, which includes books and school uniforms. The school has gained popularity, with plans to open branches in Abu Dhabi and Dubai South due to the overwhelming response from parents.
Overall, the back to school period in the UAE is a busy time for schools and families alike. With the rush for last-minute admissions, schools are extending working hours and opening extra classes to accommodate new students. Parents are exploring cost-saving measures, negotiating payment plans, and opting for affordable school options to manage the financial burden of the new academic year. As the education sector continues to evolve in the UAE, the demand for affordable schooling options is on the rise, prompting schools to introduce budget-friendly models to cater to the diverse needs of parents and students.
