DESS College
About Company
At DESS, we understand that choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your child. It’s not just about curriculum, ratings, or facilities—it’s about finding a place where your child is safe, heard, and inspired to grow.
Our community spans students, teachers, parents, and alumni, all working together to tackle challenges with creativity and confidence. With over 60 years of experience, DESS has built a reputation for excellence in British education, nurturing curiosity, resilience, and kindness in every student.
In September 2025, we opened our third campus, DESS Academic City, joining our existing DESS Oud Metha and DESS College campuses. Across our schools, 3,800 students learn according to the English National Curriculum in an environment that encourages growth academically, socially, and emotionally.
As a not-for-profit institution, every surplus dirham is reinvested directly into our schools, enhancing facilities, programs, and student experiences rather than generating profit.
Our History
1963: First ten students taught in a small flat by a British airman.
1967: School moves to Oud Metha campus.
1969: First Board of Trustees established.
2003: Decision made to open DESS College for secondary education.
2005: DESS College opens.
2017: Purpose-built Sixth Form campus opens.
2023: DESS celebrates 60 years of education excellence.
2025: New primary school opens in Academic City.
Our Vision and Mission
Vision: To be a leading institution in the region, providing high-quality education and preparing students to thrive in a global society.
Mission: We aim to nurture lifelong learners who are curious, confident, and socially responsible. We focus on academic excellence while developing creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
Why Choose DESS?
Outstanding Reputation: Our schools are consistently rated “Outstanding” by KHDA and British Schools Overseas inspections.
Inclusive Community: We celebrate diversity, welcome all backgrounds, and foster kindness, respect, and empathy.
Holistic Development: Students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively.
Not-for-Profit Advantage: Every surplus is reinvested into enriching learning experiences.
Alumni Network: DESS Connect helps students and graduates connect with mentors, career opportunities, and experiential learning.
Our Values
Kindness & Gratitude: Promoting empathy and respect for others.
Excellence: Striving for high academic and personal standards.
Community & Inclusion: Fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment.
Integrity & Responsibility: Encouraging students to make ethical choices and contribute positively to society.
Our Board of Trustees
Our locally-based Board actively supports the schools’ mission and strategic goals. Trustees bring expertise in education, finance, law, and governance, ensuring that DESS remains world-class and forward-looking.
DESSCares – Making a Difference
DESS encourages students to be active, compassionate members of their communities. Our DESSCares initiatives include fundraising for global education projects, disaster relief campaigns, and programs that teach students empathy, social responsibility, and the impact of their actions.
Through DESSCares, students develop:
Respect for diversity
Compassion and empathy
Mental well-being
Engagement with learning
A sense of responsibility to the wider community
