Independent Schools Show, Dubai 2026

Saturday 24th October 2026 | 09:30 - 14:30 - Sheraton Hotel, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai

We're returning to Dubai to showcase leading schools and renowned UK boarding schools, giving parents a unique opportunity to explore the best education options for their children - all in one place.

As an expat parent in Dubai you’re navigating unfamiliar systems, high fees, competitive admissions and long-term decisions, often without the networks or local knowledge you’d rely on back home. British, IB, international, boarding or day? Stay in Dubai or look to the UK? And how do today’s choices affect university options later on?

At this exclusive event, you'll have the chance to:

• Compare top Dubai schools and prestigious UK boarding schools side by side.
• Engage directly with school representatives to ask questions and understand how each school can meet your child’s educational needs.
• Discover each school’s unique approach, from curriculum offerings to extracurricular activities, ensuring the best fit for your child.
• Gain valuable insights to make informed decisions about your child’s future, whether you’re considering local options or looking abroad.

This is your chance to explore the best pathways for your child's education, all within a trusted and well-established platform.

Family Tickets FREE This ticket (for 2 parents + children) is valid for full day entry and includes first-come first-served seats at the talks.

Premium Tickets £50 This ticket includes a 20-minute consultation with a Bonas MacFarlane consultant to discuss school options, transition and strategies to optimise the mo

Info: This session explores the key differences between major education systems, including curriculum structure, assessment styles, university pathways, teaching approaches and student wellbeing. We’ll discuss the reasons families choose to stay put, the benefits and challenges of switching systems and what to consider at different stages of a child’s education. Designed to help parents make confident, informed choices, this talk offers practical insights and clear comparisons to support your decision-making journey.

Info: Many of the world’s top 100 IB schools are based in the UK - but what is it about these schools that consistently places them at the top of global rankings?

This session explores the defining features of leading IB schools, with a particular focus on the UK model and why it has proven so successful. Looking beyond exam results, we’ll examine teaching quality, leadership, curriculum design, university preparation, student wellbeing and enrichment opportunities.

Info: A Levels have long been regarded as one of the most rigorous and respected pathways to university worldwide. But what makes them such a strong foundation for higher education success?

This session explores why A Levels continue to be seen as the gold standard for university preparation, particularly for entry to leading UK and global universities.

Info: Choosing boarding school is a significant decision for both parents and students. When is the right time to board, and what does life at a boarding school really look like?

Hosted by the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA), this session provides expert insight into the modern boarding experience, drawing on best practice from leading UK boarding schools. We’ll explore the different entry points into boarding, the factors that influence readiness and how boarding supports academic progress, independence and personal development. The talk will also offer a realistic picture of day-to-day life at boarding school - from pastoral care and wellbeing to routines, activities and community life.

Info: How schools support children with additional needs can make a profound difference to both academic progress and wellbeing. With growing awareness and improved practice, schools are evolving the way they identify, support and nurture every learner.

This session explores how schools are supporting children with additional learning, social, emotional and behavioural needs, with a particular focus on the expertise and care found in UK specialist and inclusive schools. We’ll discuss early identification, personalised learning strategies, pastoral care, collaboration with families and access to specialist support.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Next Step Exhibitions Ltd