BOARDING AT SISD

Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Level 2 Page Header With Key FactsBoarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Level 2 Page Header With Key Facts
Key Facts
11-18
years old
100+
nationalities
3
boarding options (Full, Weekly and Flexi)

Head of Boarding Message

Boarding at SISD is more than a place to live - it is a transformative experience that fosters independence, resilience, responsibility and personal growth. In our vibrant Dubai community, students from around the world live, learn and thrive together.

 

With personalised academic support, enriching activities and exceptional pastoral care, every boarder is encouraged to build confidence, develop life skills and form meaningful friendships. Supported by our dedicated boarding team, students enjoy a safe, inclusive and inspiring environment where they feel valued and empowered to make the most of every opportunity.

 

Mila López Sancho 

Students and staff gathered around a sofa
Heads of Houses
Boarding Houses - Head of Houses

HEADS OF HOUSES MESSAGE

Siobhan Kay – Head of House Geneva
Sally Solomon – Head of House Zurich

A thriving house spirit isn’t something you can manufacture — it’s something you feel the moment you step into a boarding community. As Head of House, I see every day how boarding gives students far more than a place to sleep. It gives them a home base, a team, and a sense of belonging that shapes who they become. Within our house, students learn the quiet but powerful skills that last a lifetime: independence, resilience, self management, and the confidence to navigate life beyond school. They build friendships that run deeper than ordinary school connections because they’re forged through shared routines, laughter, and the simple comfort of knowing someone is always in their corner. Boarding also opens doors to opportunities — leadership roles, cultural experiences, academic support, and the chance to discover who they are in a safe, structured, and uplifting environment. What makes me proudest is watching students realise that our house isn’t just where they stay; it’s where they grow, where they’re known, and where they truly belong.

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME

Our boarding houses are welcoming, multicultural communities where every student is known, valued and supported. Experienced boarding staff live within the houses and are available around the clock, alongside a dedicated residential team and full-time boarding nurse. This consistent pastoral care helps students settle in, form close connections and feel secure throughout their time at SISD.

 

Students share modern two-person en-suite bedrooms and enjoy outstanding facilities designed for studying, relaxing and spending time together. These include spacious common rooms, fully equipped kitchens and pantries, dedicated study spaces, a house library, an arts and crafts area, a projector room, pianos, games and books. Together, these comfortable and thoughtfully designed spaces give students plenty of opportunities to socialise, explore their interests and enjoy a balanced boarding experience.

 

students and staff playing table football

ACADEMIC SUPPORT THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Boarding at SISD gives students additional structure, guidance and time to focus on their learning. Dedicated academic tutors within each house monitor students’ progress, help them develop effective study habits and provide individual support when needed.

 

Boarders also benefit from structured study sessions and access to teachers beyond the school day. Close communication between teaching and boarding teams means challenges can be identified early and the right support put in place. This combination of expert guidance, clear routines and personalised encouragement helps students become more confident and independent learners—and achieve their full potential

 

teacher and student playing video game

MAKING THE MOST OF DUBAI

Enrichment is an important part of everyday boarding life at SISD. During the week, students can take part in a varied programme of after-school activities designed around their hobbies, passions and interests. These give boarders opportunities to develop existing talents, discover new interests and enjoy meaningful time with their peers beyond the classroom.

Weekly trips also allow students to experience everything Dubai has to offer—and they are fully included within the boarding fees. From cultural attractions, museums and sporting events to water parks, outdoor adventures and social outings, there is always something new to experience.

Whether they are discovering a new part of the city, trying an activity for the first time or simply enjoying a day out with friends, these are often the moments our boarders remember most. 

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HEAR FROM OUR BOARDERS

Our diverse community of boarders and staff are like a family. Together, they foster an environment where every child feels safe, valued, and inspired to excel.
Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Feature Cards
Seva
Boarding student
“Being part of such a diverse, multicultural boarding school in Dubai has taught me so many things, helping me to prepare for life at university and beyond.”
Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Feature Cards
Paige
Boarding student
“Boarding at SISD is like having a second family. I cherish all the memories I've made so far – and know there are many more to come!”
Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Feature Cards
Laila
Boarding student
“Living in an inclusive community has helped me grow in confidence and become a more independent learner.”
two sudents playing chess

DISCOVER LIFE AS AN SISD BOARDER

Want to know more about what everyday boarding life looks like? Our Boarding Handbook brings together useful information about daily routines, house life, meals, activities, wellbeing support and what students should bring with them—helping both students and families feel prepared from the very beginning.
Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Feature Cards Pattern

BOARDING, DESIGNED AROUND YOUR FAMILY

We understand that every family’s needs are different, which is why we offer three flexible boarding options.
Explore our boarding options
Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Feature Cards Pattern
Full boarding
Students live on campus throughout the semester and return home during the school holidays. They enjoy the complete boarding experience, including evening and weekend activities, academic support and full access to our outstanding campus facilities.
Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Feature Cards Pattern
Weekly boarding
Students stay in the boarding house from Sunday evening until Friday afternoon, returning home for the weekend. It is an ideal option for UAE-based families looking to avoid a long daily commute while giving their child greater structure, after-hours academic support and the experience of belonging to a close-knit boarding community.
Boarding School in Dubai | Swiss International School Dubai - Feature Cards Pattern
Flexi-boarding
Flexi-Boarding Available for a minimum of one week, subject to availability, flexi-boarding gives current SISD students the option to stay on campus for a shorter period. It can be especially helpful when parents are travelling, during busy examination periods or when an unexpected family situation arises.
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OUR BOARDING FEES

A WORLD-CLASS BOARDING EXPERIENCE IN DUBAI

Our competitive and comprehensive boarding fees cover school tuition, accommodation, meals, dedicated pastoral and academic support, as well as weekly enrichment activities and trips. With so much included, families can feel confident that students have everything they need to learn, grow and enjoy boarding life at SISD.

CARING FOR YOUR CHILD

The health and happiness of our boarders is our top priority. Parents from all over the GCC and from over 100 countries worldwide entrust us to guide, nurture and support their child’s holistic growth.

 

Our Boarding Team is available 24/7, living on campus to care for our boarders’ needs around the clock. We also have a medical centre, a dedicated boarding nurse, and school counsellors.

 

Our boarders enjoy a nutritious diet, form positive social relationships, and take part in regular physical activity - all essential elements of a healthy lifestyle. They also follow a set routine, which offers structure and helps them to make the most of their time here. 

 

We take this responsibility extremely seriously, and that’s just one of the reasons we’re considered one of the best boarding schools in the Middle East.

 

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A HEALTHY MENU THAT FUELS LEARNING

Food is one of the most important parts of any boarding experience. We know how important it is to create a delicious, nutritious, and ever-changing menu that our students look forward to every day.


Throughout the week, our boarders enjoy nutritious breakfasts, lunches in our dining hall with schoolmates, and evening dinners shared with friends. At weekends, students come together for a lively brunch and enjoy BBQs, takeaway evenings, or meals out. Our boarders’ favourite drinks and snacks are available in our boarding house kitchens and pantries, too.

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STEP-BY-STEP ADMISSIONS PROCESS

Ready to start your child’s application? This is what you need to do next. 
Make an enquiry
Submit an online enquiry form, send us an email, or give us a call to speak with our Admissions team about how we can best support your family’s needs. 
Enquire now
MAKE AN ENQUIRY
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Visit us
Schedule a personalised tour or online meeting with our Admissions team. This is an opportunity to learn more about the school and ask any specific questions about SISD. 
Book a tour
VISIT US
Make your application
Submit an online application form along with the required supporting documents and the application fee of AED 525.
Apply now
MAKE YOUR APPLICATION 
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Assessment and offer
Arrange a convenient time for your child to complete the online admissions assessment. We aim to share the outcome within five working days. Should your child be offered a place, we kindly ask that the offer is accepted and the registration fee paid within five working days. 
ASSESSMENT AND OFFER
Enrolment confirmed
Accept our enrolment offer and pay the registration fee.
ENROLMENT CONFIRMED

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

MORE FAQS
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VISIT OUR BOARDING SCHOOL IN DUBAI

Get a sense of what it’s like to live at SISD – and how your child will fit into our multicultural boarding family – by booking a tour of our campus today.

BOOK A TOUR NOW