Under the terms of its Emiri Decree issued by the late Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Dubai College was formed as an independent, non-profit making institution, to teach English speaking children aged 11 to 18 years, applying the best principles and practices of British education.

The school accommodates 780 pupils, with 200 in the well-established Sixth Form.

The pupils are mostly British, although some 50 nationalities comprise the student body. Teaching staff are highly qualified and are selected not only for their academic skills but also for their enthusiasm and ability to motivate young people and for their belief in the value of extra-curricular activities.