Moving to Bali with Your Family: A Dubai Expat’s Complete Guide
Schools, healthcare, safety, housing — everything you need to plan your family’s move from Dubai to Bali.
Why Dubai Families Choose Bali
More Dubai families are discovering what long-term Bali residents already know: Bali offers an extraordinary quality of life for families at a fraction of Dubai costs. Children grow up surrounded by nature, culture, and a diverse international community. Parents enjoy lower stress, more family time, and the freedom that comes with dramatically reduced expenses.
International Schools in Bali
Green School Bali
World-famous sustainable education. Bamboo campus surrounded by jungle. IB curriculum. Ages 3-18. Fees: $8,000-$20,000/year.
Bali Island School
IB World School in Sanur. Strong academics with community focus. Ages 3-18. Fees: $7,000-$15,000/year.
Canggu Community School
Australian/International curriculum. Popular with expat families. Small class sizes. Ages 3-12. Fees: $5,000-$10,000/year.
Compare this to Dubai where international school fees range from $15,000-$30,000/year. Most Bali schools also include activities, meals, and transport that would be extra in Dubai. Other options include Australian Independent School, Dyatmika School, and several Montessori programs.
Family Housing
Private Pool Villas
3-4 bedroom villas with private pool, garden, and often staff quarters. $800-$2,000/month in Canggu, Seminyak, or Sanur. Same quality would cost $8,000+ in Dubai.
Gated Compounds
Secure compounds with shared facilities, playgrounds, and community. $600-$1,500/month. Popular with families in Sanur and Canggu.
Healthcare for Families
Bali has excellent private hospitals including BIMC Hospital (Kuta and Nusa Dua) and Siloam Hospital. Pediatric care, dental, and specialist services are available at international standards. Private health insurance for a family of four costs $300-$600/month, compared to $800-$1,500 in Dubai. For serious procedures, Singapore and Bangkok are 2-3 hours by flight.
Family Activities
Surf Lessons
Kids and parents love Bali’s gentle waves at beginner beaches.
Nature Walks
Monkey forests, rice terraces, waterfalls — outdoor adventures daily.
Creative Classes
Art, music, dance, cooking classes for all ages.
Water Sports
Snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding in crystal-clear waters.