North American International School (NAIS) Guide | Bayut
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Overview
North American International School (NAIS) is a kindergarten, elementary and secondary school in Al Mizhar 1. Established in 2007, the school offers quality US-based education to students. This educational institute currently represents 56 nationalities, making it a highly inclusive school.
Mr and Mrs Tahir, the founders of NAIS Dubai, started the school with a few students. The utmost dedication of the leaders proved to be a vital force that attracted a large number of Emirati students. NAIS has a highly experienced teaching staff that ensures individual attention and care to students. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) rated the performance of the school as good, which means that the quality of education meets the minimum expectations of the UAE.
As per the latest KHDA report, the school has 473 students, out of which the majority are Emiratis. They are taught by a teaching faculty of 57 teachers and ten teaching assistants. The teacher to student ratio at NAIS is 1:8, lower than most schools in Dubai. Such a low teacher to student ratio ensures individual attention.
The facilities available at NAIS Dubai provide full support for students’ development. Sports and outdoor facilities are also available for healthy physical activities.
Read this comprehensive guide by Bayut to learn more about the school.
Residential Communities near North American International School (NAIS)
North American International School is located in the budget-friendly residential area of Al Mizhar 1. It is known for its residential and commercial activities. The following residential communities surround the school:
Parents of students studying in NAIS Dubai will find Muhaisnah 1 closest to the school. It is the largest residential sub-community of the greater Muhaisnah that is predominantly a villa-based community. Its proximity to the Dubai International Airport and industrial zones make it an alluring option for families.
Campus of North American International School (NAIS)
North American International School is on a spacious plot in Al Mizhar with plenty of academic and non-academic facilities. The school building reflects a fusion of modern and traditional architecture. Students, staff, parents and visitors enter the main gate heavily guarded by the security team. This step is to ensure a safe and secure environment for children. The main facilities at the campus are:
Classroom and Lockers
Classrooms at NAIS are bright, comfortable and spacious. The classroom environment is positive and facilitates learning. NAIS provide lockers to students in Grade 6 onwards for books and other stuff. Please note that students are responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of their lockers.
Laboratories and Information Technology Services
North American International School has science and computer laboratories for practical knowledge. The science laboratories are equipped with proper instruments and chemicals. High safety practices are followed to ensure students conduct their experiments without any risk. The computer laboratory has high-speed computers and interactive whiteboards.
Students of NAIS use their computer lab for completing their curricular activities (Image credits: NAIS Facebook page)
Students of NAIS have access to top-notch information technology services. Students have access to high-speed internet for education and research.
Auditorium
The Hussain Auditorium at NAIS serves as a place for students to show their skills. Plays, dramas and other extracurricular activities take place at this auditorium. This 280-seater auditorium is equipped with high-end lighting and sound systems.
Library and Audio-Visual Room
The school library is a primary source of all the additional learning resources suggested in classrooms. It houses a variety of academic and non-academic books on a wide range of subjects. Students also have access to a massive online database, and those looking for print media facilities can access the library. The NAIS Library is open every Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm.
There is also an audio-visual room with a large flat-screen and a stock of educational movies.
Sports facilities
NAIS also has a considerable range of indoor and outdoor facilities. These facilities are available to students at all times. Additionally, the timetable also ensures students have ample opportunities to engage in healthy activities.
Other facilities
Other prominent facilities at this campus are:
Medical centre
Canteen
Art room
Dance studio
Music room
Bookstore
Location of North American International School (NAIS)
NAIS is on Street 4, slightly off the intersection of Algeria Street and Al Khawaneej Street. The front entrance of NAIS Dubai faces the LuLu Hypermarket in Al Mizhar. Those interested in visiting the school can easily access it via the aforementioned roads.
Why North American International School (NAIS)?
One of the attractive features of this school is its caring and supportive environment. Such an environment encourages children to discover their talents. The teaching staff and other faculty members are friendly and play their role in creating a home-like atmosphere. This diverse atmosphere of the school builds an understanding of many cultures. Students passing out demonstrate a global mindset due to the school’s atmosphere.
Another strong point of NAIS is the quality of education. Despite having fewer students than other international schools, it offers high-quality education. Its syllabus is based on the Common Core standards and North Carolina Standard Course of Study. It also provides adequate academic support services to its students. The Department of Inclusion and Behaviour Management fully supports students and parents to get along with the vision and culture of NAIS. Other support services include:
- Elementary English Language Learning
- Elementary Learning Support Centre
- Secondary Learning Support Centre
- Career guidance
- Counselling
Students participate in many non-curricular activities, resulting in professional and personal development. Most activities are related to sports or art, allowing students to explore their athletic and creative abilities. The school follows a house-based system that encourages friendly competition. Washington, Lincoln and Kennedy are the three houses that compete against one another. Students in the senior grades become house mister/mistress, house captain, class captains and prefects. Their role is to manage the student council and integrate students into activities of their choice.
School Details
COVID-19 Protocols
KHDA has issued an updated set of guidelines for reopening schools in Dubai amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It amended some of the protocols considering the current health and safety situation. Here is a brief overview of protocols and guidelines adopted by schools, including NAIS Dubai, for the academic year 2021-2022:
- Students and staff do not need to get vaccinated. Employees that are yet to be fully vaccinated need to submit a negative COVID-19 PCR test result at the start of every week.
- Schools are now allowed to run their buses at 100% capacity. Previously, schools could only run transport operations at half of their capacity. KHDA mandates schools to comply with health and safety standards on the bus.
- The minimum physical distance allowed by the KHDA is reduced to 1 metre. Previously, schools maintained a distance of at least 1.5 metres. Students above six years old and staff members are still required to wear a mask at all times.
- Extracurricular activities, field trips, excursions, sports and after-school activities are now allowed. Swimming pools and other sports facilities are now also open to students.
- KHDA also mandated schools for a complete on-site learning experience for students. The on-site learning will be offered from October 3 onwards. Students wishing to continue their studies via a distance learning programme will have to submit a relevant health certificate issued by the Dubai Health Authority.
Other than that, most COVID-19 protocols remained the same. For more information, contact the school’s administration.
Years Offered at North American International School (NAIS)
NAIS offers education to children from kindergarten to high school. The educational system is split into the following sections:
StageGrade
Kindergarten
KG1 and KG2
Elementary School
Grade 1 to Grade 5
Middle School
Grade 6 to Grade 8
High School
Grade 9 to Grade 12
North American International School (NAIS) Curriculum
The syllabus followed at the North American International School is based on the US curriculum. The education programme is meticulously planned to ensure that students are exposed to a broad range of subjects. For science and mathematics, the school follows the Common Core Standards. While it adopts the guidelines of the Ministry of Education (MOE) for Islamic Education and Arabic. NAIS shapes its syllabus by adopting California State Standards for remaining subjects. The specifics for each phase of education are as follows:
Kindergarten Curriculum
The first few years of children’s learning set the foundations for the rest of their academic lives. NAIS focuses on building their understanding of the fundamental concepts. NAIS fully understands the needs of young learners and implements a learning programme that suits their styles. The teachers support growth in the following areas:
- Positive attitude towards learning
- Numeracy, literacy and communication skills
- Social, personal and emotional well-being
- Language, quality of perseverance and attention skills
- Physical, sound and creative development and appreciation and understanding of the world
It conducts an assessment test before KG1 and KG2 to identify the strengths and weaknesses. Similarly, it conducts an exit entrance test to gauge students’ readiness for the next stage. Students are also monitored throughout the classes to track their progress.
Elementary Curriculum
At this stage, NAIS focuses on cultivating inquiry and problem-solving skills among students. These skills allow them to understand how things work. They undergo a diagnostic test at the start of an academic year to delineate the strengths and weaknesses of students. Furthermore, informal formative assessments take place throughout the year. These assessments are graded and included in the final report. The measure of Academic Progress (MAP) test is the only formal assessment undertaken at the end of each academic year. Students in Grade 1 to Grade 5 study the following subjects:
Arabic (First Language)
English
Fine Arts
Foreign Language
General Science
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Islamic education
Mathematics
Physical Education and Health
Social Science
Visual Art
Kindergarten students enjoy their time performing curricular activities (Image credits: NAIS Facebook page)
Middle School Curriculum
NAIS understands that this phase corresponds to emotional, physical, social and intellectual transition. The school designed a curriculum to build confidence, self-esteem and self-reliance. The syllabus is based on a common core standard that encompasses a broad range of subjects. Each subject contributes to building skills necessary for high school education. It conducts a diagnostic test for middle school students that is graded and included in the final report.
Subjects taught in middle school are:
English
Islamic Studies
Arabic (First or Second Language)
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
French (Foreign Language)
Visual Arts or Fine Arts
Physical Education and Health
High School Curriculum
The high school curriculum at NAIS focuses on spurring critical thinking and analytical skills. Those completing their high school education from NAIS have exceptional interpersonal, creative and academic skills.
The assessments include formative assessments throughout the academic year and three MAP exams at the end of each term. NAIS also provides career guidance to help them select the best path for their future lives.
Please note that students need to complete at least 24.5 credit hours, 60 hours of work experience and 40 hours of community service to receive the high school certificate. For more information, read the curriculum of North American International School.
Distance Learning
As per the new COVID-19 protocols issued by KHDA, schools are discontinuing the distance learning programme from October 3, 2021. Those wishing to continue their education via distance learning have to show a relevant health certificate issued by Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Schools may revert to distance learning if COVID-19 cases are detected in a class or a group in a class.
KHDA Rating
One of the main challenges for the multicultural community of Dubai was to regulate its education sector. The government of Dubai established the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in 2006. It aims to improve the quality of education offered by educational institutes. To achieve this, it inspects the performance of schools and issues a yearly report. The performance of schools is rated based on a specifically designed six-point scale. This scale varies from outstanding to very weak and is briefly explained below:
KHDA’s rating scale explained
In its latest inspection, KHDA rated the overall performance of North American International School as good. Before that, the school was consistently rated acceptable. Here is a ten-year summary of ratings for NAIS:
YearKHDA Rating
2010-2019
Acceptable
2019-2020
Good
KHDA reported the following strengths of the North American International School:
- The capacity and quality of senior leadership that resulted in positive changes
- Care, support, guidance and inclusive school ethos
- Students’ behaviour and attitude, especially towards their teachers
- Good achievement in KG stage consistently
KHDA also shared a set of recommendations to assist NAIS in further improving its performance. The recommendations are as follows:
- Evaluate the steps taken to improve the programme dedicated to elevating students’ reading skills in Arabic and English.
- The school must ensure that all teachers have the skills to teach English as an additional language, especially in middle school.
- The school should work to raise students’ attainment in Arabic and Islamic education, particularly in high school.
- NAIS must improve the outcome for the key UAE national priorities that include the development of innovation and reading skills, quality of teaching and assessment of learning in moral education.
Academic Calendar for North American International School (NAIS)
The approved academic year of 2021-2022 has 182 school days. The school year starts in August and ends in June. There are three terms in the academic year of NAIS Dubai. The important dates of all the terms are as follows:
- The first term starts in the last week of August and ends in the second week of December. This is followed by a three-week winter break that ends in the last week of December.
- The second term starts right after the winter break in the first week of January. The term ends in the fourth week of March. Students then go on a two-week spring break from the last week of March to the first week of April.
- Classes resume with the commencement of the last term in the second week of April. The term ends in the last week of June.
Besides the aforementioned, the school observes holidays on many religious, national and international events. For more information, check out the academic calendar of NAIS on its official website.
Admission and Fees
How to Apply to North American International School (NAIS)?
Online Application and Documents
NAIS is a non-selective school that accepts admission applications from all. Before starting the admission process, the school encourages parents to visit the school and check the facilities by themselves. It serves as an opportunity for teachers and parents to better understand one another. You can book a tour by filling out the form. The school will contact you with the time and date.
Once satisfied, you can initiate the admission process by filling out the online application form. Parents are advised to fill out the form with correct information. Recheck the contact details before applying, as the school will contact you on the provided contact details.
The documents required by the school are:
- Birth certificate of the candidate (two copies, KG 1 to Grade 1)
- Previous mark sheets
- Candidate’s Immunisation record (one copy)
- Recent passport-size photographs of the candidate (four photos)
- Passport of the candidate (two copies)
- Passport of parents (both mother and father, two copies each)
- Emirates ID cards of the candidates and parents (two copies)
- Residence visa of the candidate (two copies)
- Residence visa of parents (both father and mother, two copies each)
- Filled transportation form (optional and must be sent if transportation service is required)
- Original Transfer certificate (for admissions in Grade 2 and onwards)
The age-grade guideline is given below:
GradeMinimum Entry AgeMaximum Entry AgeMinimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
Grade
Kindergarten 1
Minimum Entry Age
4
Maximum Entry Age
–
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
–
Grade
Kindergarten 2
Minimum Entry Age
5
Maximum Entry Age
–
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
–
Grade
Grade 1
Minimum Entry Age
6
Maximum Entry Age
–
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
–
Grade
Grade 2
Minimum Entry Age
7
Maximum Entry Age
9
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
6
Grade
Grade 3
Minimum Entry Age
8
Maximum Entry Age
10
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
7
Grade
Grade 4
Minimum Entry Age
9
Maximum Entry Age
11
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
8
Grade
Grade 5
Minimum Entry Age
10
Maximum Entry Age
12
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
9
Grade
Grade 6
Minimum Entry Age
11
Maximum Entry Age
13
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
10
Grade
Grade 7
Minimum Entry Age
12
Maximum Entry Age
14
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
11
Grade
Grade 8
Minimum Entry Age
13
Maximum Entry Age
15
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
12
Grade
Grade 9
Minimum Entry Age
14
Maximum Entry Age
17
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
13
Grade
Grade 10
Minimum Entry Age
15
Maximum Entry Age
18
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
14
Grade
Grade 11
Minimum Entry Age
16
Maximum Entry Age
19
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
15
Grade
Grade 12
Minimum Entry Age
17
Maximum Entry Age
20
Minimum Entry Age for Overseas Transfers*
16
This is based on the age of the students on 31st August (for schools beginning in September). Source: KHDA
* This is to cater to students transferring from systems that admit students of a younger age)
Guidelines for Transfer Certificate
The transfer certificate must be in Arabic and have the school stamp and signature if your child last studied in Dubai.
If applying from other Emirates in the UAE, the transfer certificate must be in Arabic and have the school sign and stamp. It should also be attested by the Ministry of Education of that Emirate.
If applying from outside the UAE, the transfer certificate must have the school stamp and signature. It needs to be attested by the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in that country.
Assessment and further procedures
The school contacts the parents for assessment after applying and required documents. If applying for kindergarten, the assessment involves an interview conducted by the school’s principal. An entrance test is conducted for admissions in Grade 1 and above. The entrance test consists of questions from English and mathematics. The decision to offer a seat depends on the previous academic record and the assessment. Parents are usually informed about the outcome within a few days.
To reserve the seat, pay the required deposit and the rest of the tuition fees within deadlines. Please ensure that all the documents are sent to the school before the child’s first day at school.
The admission office is open every Saturday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. For further details, read the admission guidelines for NAIS Al Mizhar.
Fee Structure at North American International School (NAIS)
The North American International School fees are:
Tuition fee
The tuition fee at NAIS is as follow:
GradeAnnual Tuition Fee (AED)
KG1 and KG2
21,500
Grade 1 and Grade 2
23,000
Grade 3 to Grade 5
23,200
Grade 6
23,300
Grade 7 and Grade 8
26,600
Grade 9 and Grade
31,000
Grade 11
34,500
Grade 12
36,500
The tuition fee can be paid in three instalments. Refer to the fee structure of North American International School for more information.
Sibling discount
The school offers a sibling discount of 7% on the second child, 10% on the third child and 15% on the fourth child. Discount is applicable on payment of the second instalment.
Other charges
Other ChargesFee (AED)
Entrance Test Fee
200
Registration Fee
500
Registration Advance
2,000
Transfer Fee
120
Return Cheques
500
Examination Fee (KG1 to Grade 2)
100
Examination fee (Grade 3 and Grade 10)
250
Examination fee (Grade 4 to Grade 9)
310
To find more, view the fees structure at North American International School.
Scholarships at North American International School (NAIS)
The school does not offer any scholarship programme.
School Facilities
Lunch Options at North American International School (NAIS)
There is a school canteen that provides nutritious snacks and beverages to students from Grade 1 and above. Students in kindergarten bring home-packed lunches. Those looking to eat their snacks or home-packed lunches can visit the dining room.
School Transportation at North American International School (NAIS)
Those looking for a comfortable and safe ride to and from the school can contact the Regal Bus Transport Company. They have collaborated with the NAIS to provide a safe and reliable way to commute for students. The transportation fee varies from AED 2,400 to AED 4,600 for different areas. For further information, email [email protected] or call 04 288 4844 Ext: 422.
Boarding Facility at North American International School (NAIS)
It is a day-only school and does not offer boarding or hostel facilities.
Holiday Camps at North American International School Dubai
There are currently no winter camps or summer camps for students.
Sports Facilities
A range of indoor and outdoor sports-related facilities is available at the campus. These facilities include:
AstroTurf Football Field
Throw-ball Court
Basketball Court
Badminton Court
Tennis Court
Gymnasium
Table Tennis Facility
Indoor Activity Rooms
Special Play Areas
AstoTurf football pitched used for athletics for annual school competition (Image credits: NAIS Facebook Page)
Extra-curricular Activities at North American International School (NAIS)
At NAIS, there is a wide range of extra-curricular activities. These activities help students learn modern-day skills necessary to thrive in the 21st century. Some notable non-academic activities are:
Dressing up as superheroes
Business fair
International and national events
Sports day
Book Fair
Arts
Junkbots
Dance
Drama
Field Trips from North American International School (NAIS)
It understands the importance of students’ learning beyond the boundaries. Therefore, it arranges field trips to help students learn and understand different phenomena under practical settings. One noticeable field trip was the visit to Mleiha Archaeological Centre. Located in Sharjah, it is an archaeological site with historical significance. Senior students visited the place and learned a lot about the historical and geographical importance of the United Arab Emirates.
Students went on an educational field trip to Mleiha Archeological Site (Image credits: NAIS Facebook Page)
After-school Care at North American International School (NAIS)
Currently, the only after-school care provided by the school is in the form of an extra-curricular programme. Some activities take place after regular school timings.
Medical Care at North American International School (NAIS)
The school has a medical centre equipped with the necessary equipment. The medical staff consists of a doctor and a full-time nurse that provides medical care and attention to students and staff. The nurse is available from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm, and the doctor is available from 1:30 to 2:30 pm. In cases of a serious condition, the school’s doctor refers to other doctors. The medical centre also conducts immunisation and other government-initiated health programmes for the well-being of students.
Mode of Communication between Teachers and Parents
North American International School has multiple modes of communication to keep parents informed about the progress made by children. The parent-teacher meeting helps teachers and parents collaborate. These meetings happen thrice a year where parents and teachers discuss the progress made by students.
Another essential source of communication is the NAIS Portal. By signing into the portal, parents can access important information such as examination schedule, timetable, news and notifications for upcoming events. The school’s official website is also regularly updated with new information, newsletters and circulars.
The school also has an active social media presence where they regularly post images and important notifications for parents and the wider community. For urgent updates, parents and teachers can contact each other through WhatsApp groups.
Those interested in becoming a part of their workforce can visit NAIS Careers.
NAIS location: Near 11 A Street, behind Arabian Centre, Al Mizhar 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Telephone number
For general enquiry: +971 04 288 4844
Email address
- For admissions: [email protected]
- For general information: [email protected]
Official Website and Social Media
Note that the cover image belongs to North American International School (NAIS)
