The Rise of Mandarin in Dubai Schools: From Primary to Secondary

Mandarin's Growing Popularity in Dubai Schools

This article discusses the rising trend of Mandarin Chinese language instruction in Dubai's international schools. Driven by China's economic and cultural influence, and the UAE's increased trade with China, more schools are integrating Mandarin into their core curriculum, starting as early as three years old.

Key Schools Offering Mandarin

• Nord Anglia International School Dubai (NAS Dubai): Offers a comprehensive Mandarin program from Year 1 to Year 13, including IGCSEs and IB options, and is certified to host HSK and YCT proficiency exams.
• Raffles International School: Integrates Mandarin into the core curriculum from Year 3, providing structured lessons and offering IGCSE and A-Level options.
• Sunmarke School: Launched a Mandarin Academy in 2024, offering a broad language and cultural program that will eventually extend to the IB program.
• Hartland International School Dubai: Offers Mandarin as a core foreign language option from Year 4, partnering with the Chinese Language Institute (CLI) Dubai for additional courses and cultural enrichment activities.

These schools' investments in Mandarin reflect a wider shift in the UAE's education system, with the Ministry of Education aiming to expand Mandarin language programs in public schools.