Dubai Private Schools Achieve Global Excellence in PISA Rankings

In a groundbreaking achievement, Dubai’s private schools have secured a spot among the top 14 globally in mathematics, science, and reading, according to the recent Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa). Conducted every three years by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Pisa evaluates the ability of 15-year-olds to apply their knowledge in reading, mathematics, and science to real-life challenges.

Dubai schools’ standout performance lies in mathematics, where they have risen from the 34th position in 2015 to an impressive 9th in the world, surpassing countries such as Canada, the UK, and Australia. With a mean score of 497, they exceeded the OECD average by 25 points. Additionally, they secured the 13th spot globally in reading, boasting a mean score of 498, and the 14th position in science with a mean score of 503 points, according to the Pisa results.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, expressed his pride in this achievement, extending his gratitude to the dedicated educational staff who made it possible. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the significant role of education in enhancing the quality of life for citizens, residents, and their families, stating, “The intellectual strength of our schools today augments the strength of our future and ensures success for the new generations.”

The Dubai Crown Prince acknowledged the efforts of all education sector staff and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) for their contributions to this remarkable achievement, surpassing the national target of reaching the top 15.

Schools rated ‘outstanding’ demonstrated exceptional performance, scoring 551 points in mathematics, 553 in science, and 554 in reading, significantly surpassing the OECD average. Schools following the IB curriculum excelled, achieving 535 points in mathematics, 538 points in science, and 528 points in reading.

Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, director-general of the KHDA, commended the leadership of principals, the expertise of teachers, and the determination of students for propelling Dubai’s schools to global recognition. He expressed gratitude to the entire school community, emphasizing their commitment to quality and improvement.

The Pisa 2022 study involved 9,250 students from 171 schools offering eight different curricula. Fatma Belrehif, CEO of Dubai Schools Inspection Bureau, highlighted the outstanding performance as evidence of Dubai’s private schools offering education of the highest quality, aligning with the best global education systems and exceeding the UAE National Agenda targets.