The Ballet Centre
Dubai's oldest dance school since 1985. Ballet, modern, tap, plus music, art…
A ballet-focused dance school offering classical ballet training along with related dance disciplines.
Photo: The Ballet Centre via Google
Before your first class
Most adult classes are offered at beginner and intermediate levels; kids' classes start from age 2.5; free trials are available for new students.
About this studio
The Ballet Centre was founded by Terry Dean in 1985, making it the first and oldest dance school in the United Arab Emirates. Now operating from Jumeirah with 1000 students across 200 classes taught by 15 teachers, it remains the longest-running dance school in the region.
The studio teaches RAD Ballet across multiple levels, from Tiny Tots (2.5 years) through to Advanced and Pointe classes. It also offers ISTD Tap and Modern Dance, with tap and modern classes running at various grades and intermediate levels. Beyond dance, the centre provides ITF Taekwondo taught by professional black belts for ages 3 and up, plus drawing and painting classes for children aged 4–12, music lessons (piano, violin, flute, guitar, vocal) from internationally qualified teachers with Trinity and ABRSM exam options, and yoga for all ages.
Adult classes are available in ballet, modern dance, contemporary dance, tap dance, belly dancing, yoga, and taekwondo, with most offered at beginner and intermediate levels on a flexible payment plan. The school is KHDA approved and holds yearly RAD and ISTD exams, organising yearly shows and attending dance competitions and local events across the UAE.
Free class trials are offered for new students depending on available capacity. The studio maintains a spring 2026 timetable with classes running Sunday to Thursday, and is open 8am to 8pm daily. Recent performances include Disney Around the World (July 2023), The Sleeping Beauty (December 2021), and Little Ballerina's Recital (June 2021), continuing a long history of annual presentations and productions.
The centre also offers dance studio rental and dance costume rental for students and the wider community.
What to expect
Your first visit
You can book a free trial class to explore any of the offerings—ballet, modern, tap, taekwondo, art, music, or yoga—depending on availability. Classes run throughout the week at set times; most dance classes are offered at multiple levels, so whether you're starting out or advancing your skills, there's a structured path. The studio prioritises safety and a welcoming environment for all students.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The team includes Debra Colleen Gush (dance teacher), Ravien Prakash George (head of music), and multiple ballet teachers including Ms. Rachel, Ms. Amy, Ms. Carmen, Ms. Masa, Ms. Fiona, and Ms. Sophie. Taekwondo is taught by Sabum-Abdurahiman and Riyas Valiya (professional black belts). Art classes are taught by Mr. Sliman. Music classes are led by internationally qualified teachers including Aya Arsouzi. Mangalika Jayalath is proprietor, and Tala Kudrya is developer and lead teacher.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Most adult classes are offered at beginner and intermediate levels; kids' classes start from age 2.5; free trials are available for new students.
Studio history
Founded by Terry Dean in 1985, The Ballet Centre is the first and oldest dance school in the United Arab Emirates and the longest-running dance school in the region.
Styles offered
12 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
The Ballet Centrehasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own The Ballet Centre, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about The Ballet Centre
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does The Ballet Centre teach?
The Ballet Centre teaches Ballet, RAD Ballet (Tiny Tots, Prep, Pre-Primary, Primary, Grades 1–8, Intermediate, Advanced Foundation, Pointe), ISTD Modern Dance, ISTD Tap, Contemporary Dance, Belly Dancing and 6 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is The Ballet Centre located?
The Ballet Centre is located in Dubai. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does The Ballet Centre offer private lessons?
Contact The Ballet Centre directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does The Ballet Centre teach kids and adults?
The Ballet Centre welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at The Ballet Centre?
The fastest path is to visit The Ballet Centre via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.