The MENA School Excellence Awards once again brought together some of the region’s most inspiring educators and institutions, celebrating innovation, impact and dedication across the education sector. The awards recognise schools that are driving meaningful change and championing excellence.
Hear from those who attended!
JESS Dubai marks 50 years with multiple wins
Among this year’s standout schools was JESS Dubai, which secured three wins and a highly commended recognition across a breadth of categories.
‘We are delighted to be recognised across so many categories at this year’s MENA School Excellence Awards. To receive three wins and a highly commended is a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and shared values that define JESS. These awards celebrate the exceptional work of our staff, the curiosity, character and talent of our students, and the strength of our community.
What makes this achievement so meaningful is the breadth of recognition, from early years and enrichment to staff culture and whole-school excellence. It affirms the holistic approach we are committed to and highlights the impact of initiatives that our teams have developed with such care and ambition.
As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, this acknowledgement from the judges feels particularly significant. It reinforces both the strength of our foundation and the momentum with which we move into the next chapter of JESS. I am immensely proud of our staff and students, and excited for all that lies ahead.’ - Shane O'Brien | Director
Reflecting on the process, JESS described the experience as ‘positive from start to finish,’ noting that the application encouraged deep reflection on the initiatives, partnerships and innovations shaping its provision. The judging process was praised as robust, evidence-driven and genuinely focused on impact.
Aldar Education
For Aldar Education, being nominated in the two categories of inclusion and Emirati education was a significant milestone.
‘Being nominated in two categories, inclusion and Emirati education, was an incredible honour for our entire school community. We were truly delighted to be recognised at such a prestigious level, particularly in areas that sit at the heart of our values and provision. What stood out most about the MENA Awards was the authenticity of the experience. The delivery of the awards was heartfelt and genuine, reflecting a deep understanding of education not just as academic provision, but as care, nurture, and purposeful impact across the region. There was a real sense that schools were being recognised for the difference they make in the lives of children, families, and communities. For us, it was more than a nomination, it was an affirmation of the work we do every day to champion inclusion and celebrate Emirati identity within a culture of belonging. The event truly celebrated the spirit of education across MENA, and we were proud to be part of it.’
A sector united in celebration
Representatives from Al Ain British Academy reflected on the unique atmosphere of the evening:
‘On a surface level, it is very rare we are in a room with our counterparts from some of the strongest educational schools across the region. That alone was a wonderful opportunity and experience. But the fact we were there to celebrate schools across the MENA region and champion each other, felt very special. Education is hard and not numerated well, but the room had such a buzz and everyone felt proud of their success in being shortlisted and/or winning.’
The MENA Conference continues to be highly regarded across the region, and acknowledgment through shortlisting or winning serves as powerful encouragement for schools to continue striving for excellence and continuous improvement.
More than a ceremony, the awards represent a celebration of the difference schools make in the lives of children, families and communities and a shared commitment to raising standards across MENA.
Get ready for the 2027 awards
Register your interest in MENA School Excellence Awards 2027! Which categories will you enter?
