Diyafah International School vs GEMS Winchester School Abu Dhabi

	D Diyafah International School Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates	G GEMS Winchester School Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 23,000 - 45,170	Fees / year AED 19,950 - 27,290
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 14 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,134	Pupils 1,513
Typical class size	Typical class size 12	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Diyafah International School is located in Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on Al Inarah Street (Zone 13). The campus is in the MBZ City area, with access to Abu Dhabi's road network. The school identifies its Abu Dhabi location as part of its community presence in the emirate.	Location GEMS Winchester School – Abu Dhabi is located in Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits in a central area and is accessible by main roads, with the Al Falah Street address noted as near Medeor 24×7 Hospital. The school's contact details and location are listed under Madinat Zayed in Abu Dhabi.
Stages	Stages Nursery/FS1 to Year 13, covering Early Years, Primary and Secondary education.	Stages The school offers the National Curriculum of England from Foundation Stage to Year 9. Foundation Stage 2 is the starting point, progressing through Year 9.
School type	School type Diyafah International School Abu Dhabi is co-educational and non-selective, welcoming applications from all nationalities and ability levels.	School type The school is co-educational and operates as a day school with no boarding facilities indicated.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The school reports over 60 nationalities represented and more than 43 languages spoken; no public breakdown of exact nationality proportions is provided.	Pupil nationality mix Publicly disclosed data on nationalities is not available. The school describes itself as multicultural and diverse, aligning with GEMS' Global Citizenship emphasis. The UAE context and the school's mission statements indicate a diverse international student body.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support to help students for whom English is not a first language access the curriculum. The school reports a diverse community with over 60 nationalities represented and more than 43 languages spoken.	Additional learning support The school provides dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) support led by a SENCo. Support includes one-to-one and small-group sessions, with in-class support available for an additional charge. Staff receive ongoing SEN training, and parents must disclose SEN needs prior to admission; an educational assessment may be requested, and decisions about additional support are made in collaboration with parents.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Affiliated with the United Kingdom through the English/National Curriculum (British curriculum).	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation; the curriculum is the English National Curriculum as delivered by a GEMS Education school.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is stated.	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation; Islamic Education is part of the UAE context and the school maintains UAE national identity and facilities such as prayer rooms. The school also has an Islamic Studies focus within its staffing and curriculum structure.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically runs from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, reflecting standard school hours. The campus provides a canteen for lunch options on site.	School day structure Gates open at 7:25 am, and the National Anthem is at 7:40 am. The day generally runs until around 3:30–4:30 pm for most year groups, with Fridays typically finishing earlier around 12:00 pm. Detailed daily timings are provided in the school's parent handbook.
Bus service details	Bus service details Transport is outsourced to School Transport Services LLC (STS). Buses are SMART with CCTV, GPS tracking and attendance scanners; the service includes a Salama attendance/app system and a standard annual fee. Area coverage includes Mohamed Bin Zayed City and other Abu Dhabi locations. Contact: transport@diyafahinternationalschool.com; +971 2 558 5665 ext. 107.	Bus service details The school uses STS Group for its transport, providing a fleet of air-conditioned buses with CCTV, GPS tracking, ADAS cameras, RFID, and a 24/7 Operations Control Centre. Bus routes cover areas inside Abu Dhabi, with trained drivers and safety protocols.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration fees - New-student registration fee is charged at the amounts listed by year group and is adjusted against the first term's fees. Registration / re‑registration amounts (AY 2025–26): FS1 AED 1,200; FS2 AED 1,400; Year 1–3 AED 1,550; Year 4–6 AED 1,650; Year 7–9 AED 1,850; Year 10 AED 2,050; Year 11 AED 2,050; Year 12–13 AED 2,250. Annual tuition fees (by year group) — Academic Year 2025–26 - FS1 (Nursery/FS1): AED 23,000. - FS2: AED 24,500. - Year 1 to Year 3: AED 30,980. - Year 4 to Year 6: AED 33,500. - Year 7 to Year 9: AED 37,310. - Year 10: AED 41,020. - Year 11: AED 41,020. - Year 12 and Year 13: AED 45,170. Tuition billed per term (amounts payable by term for AY 2025–26 and due dates) - Billing frequency: three instalments (three terms) for most year groups; some senior year groups follow a two-term pattern. Due dates for AY 2025–26 are: Term 1 (due 15 August 2025), Term 2 (due 05 December 2025), Term 3 (due 05 March 2026). Term-by-term payable amounts (Term 1 shown as the total first-term amount parents pay including the registration/re-registration charge where applicable): - FS1 (Annual AED 23,000): Term 1 AED 9,200; Term 2 AED 6,900; Term 3 AED 6,900. - FS2 (Annual AED 24,500): Term 1 AED 9,800; Term 2 AED 7,350; Term 3 AED 7,350. - Year 1 (Annual AED 30,980): Term 1 AED 12,392; Term 2 AED 9,294; Term 3 AED 9,294. - Year 2 (Annual AED 30,980): Term 1 AED 12,392; Term 2 AED 9,294; Term 3 AED 9,294. - Year 3 (Annual AED 30,980): Term 1 AED 12,392; Term 2 AED 9,294; Term 3 AED 9,294. - Year 4 (Annual AED 33,500): Term 1 AED 13,400; Term 2 AED 10,050; Term 3 AED 10,050. - Year 5 (Annual AED 33,500): Term 1 AED 13,400; Term 2 AED 10,050; Term 3 AED 10,050. - Year 6 (Annual AED 33,500): Term 1 AED 13,400; Term 2 AED 10,050; Term 3 AED 10,050. - Year 7 (Annual AED 37,310): Term 1 AED 14,924; Term 2 AED 11,193; Term 3 AED 11,193. - Year 8 (Annual AED 37,310): Term 1 AED 14,924; Term 2 AED 11,193; Term 3 AED 11,193. - Year 9 (Annual AED 37,310): Term 1 AED 14,924; Term 2 AED 11,193; Term 3 AED 11,193. - Year 10 (Annual AED 41,020): Term 1 AED 16,408; Term 2 AED 12,306; Term 3 AED 12,306. - Year 11 (Annual AED 41,020): Term 1 AED 20,510; Term 2 AED 20,510; Term 3 not applicable (two-term pattern for this year group). - Year 12 (Annual AED 45,170): Term 1 AED 22,585; Term 2 AED 22,585; Term 3 not applicable (two-term pattern for this year group). - Year 13 (Annual AED 45,170): Term 1 AED 22,585; Term 2 AED 22,585; Term 3 not applicable (two-term pattern for this year group). Billing schedule and payment terms - Term fees are payable in advance on or before the stated due dates for each term (Term 1: 15 August 2025; Term 2: 05 December 2025; Term 3: 05 March 2026 for AY 2025–26). Late or unpaid fees may lead to warnings, temporary suspension, withholding of reports or the transfer certificate, and reporting to the regulator. A minimum one-month notice is required for a Transfer Certificate application; Ministry/regulator rules apply to fee payment and refunds in those cases. Boarding - There is no boarding provision listed; the school operates as a day school and provides outsourced school bus transport for pupils who require it. Other costs and fees - Examination fees: Board/examination fees for students in Years 11–13 are charged on a cost‑recovery basis and are invoiced per student. - Personal Enrichment Programme (extracurricular) charges: Co‑curricular activities organised by external providers are charged separately; in‑house clubs may have no additional charge. - Transport: Bus/transport is charged separately through the outsourced provider; parents must register separately for transport and pay the transport provider's fees. - Uniform: Uniforms are purchased from an authorised supplier; uniform costs are additional. - Books and stationery: Curriculum textbooks and class notebooks are issued by class teachers and no separate book fee is charged in the sixth-form guidance; parents should expect to cover any optional or replacement items as required. Refunds and withdrawal - The registration / re‑registration fee is non‑refundable when enrollment is withdrawn; registration/re‑registration is adjusted against the first term's fees. Refunds of other fees on cancellation or withdrawal are handled in accordance with regulator (ADEK/ADEK-equivalent) and Ministry guidelines and the school's published terms and conditions; a minimum of one month's notice is required when applying for a Transfer Certificate and Ministry guidelines affect payment/refund handling. Fee payment methods and instructions - Online parent portal: Credit and debit card payments are accepted via the school parent portal. Cash, cheque or card payments are accepted at the school fee counter. Parents who do not have card facilities are asked to submit post‑dated cheques for Term 2 and Term 3 together with payment for Term 1. Bank transfer options are used for some payments as noted in admissions communications. Cheques are subject to bank realization and bank charges apply for dishonored cheques.	Fee details Application / New‑admissions fee - A new‑admissions charge equal to 5% of the annual tuition fee is payable on acceptance of the offer and confirmation of enrolment. This fee is non‑transferable and is generally non‑refundable, but it is adjustable against the first term tuition once the student joins and may be refunded if the parent gives notice of withdrawal before the start of the academic year in accordance with ADEK policy. Tuition fees (Academic year 2025–2026) — amounts in AED - Foundation Stage 2 (FS2) - Annual tuition: AED 19,950. - Term 1 (Sep–Dec): AED 7,980. - Term 2 (Jan–Mar): AED 5,985. - Term 3 (Apr–Jun): AED 5,985. - Year 1 - Annual tuition: AED 22,350. - Term 1: AED 8,940. Term 2: AED 6,705. Term 3: AED 6,705. - Year 2 - Annual tuition: AED 22,350. Term 1: AED 8,940. Term 2: AED 6,705. Term 3: AED 6,705. - Year 3 - Annual tuition: AED 22,350. Term 1: AED 8,940. Term 2: AED 6,705. Term 3: AED 6,705. - Year 4 - Annual tuition: AED 22,350. Term 1: AED 8,940. Term 2: AED 6,705. Term 3: AED 6,705. - Year 5 - Annual tuition: AED 22,350. Term 1: AED 8,940. Term 2: AED 6,705. Term 3: AED 6,705. - Year 6 - Annual tuition: AED 22,350. Term 1: AED 8,940. Term 2: AED 6,705. Term 3: AED 6,705. - Year 7 - Annual tuition: AED 27,290. Term 1: AED 10,916. Term 2: AED 8,187. Term 3: AED 8,187. - Year 8 - Annual tuition: AED 27,290. Term 1: AED 10,916. Term 2: AED 8,187. Term 3: AED 8,187. - Year 9 - Annual tuition: AED 27,290. Term 1: AED 10,916. Term 2: AED 8,187. Term 3: AED 8,187. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is due prior to the start of the academic year and is payable in advance of attendance, at the start of each term. Tuition invoices are issued from the time of admission to allow payment before the term begins. Term periods are Sep–Dec (Term 1), Jan–Mar (Term 2) and Apr–Jun (Term 3). Failure to pay may result in withholding of reports/examination results or loss of the student's place. Boarding fees / boarding provision - GEMS Winchester School Abu Dhabi operates as a day school and does not offer boarding; therefore boarding fees are not applicable. Other costs and typical additional charges - The school identifies additional parent‑pay items such as school transport and uniform as separate cost areas; specific charges for transport, uniform, books or extracurricular activities are handled separately and may apply. Parents should budget for these additional items in addition to tuition. Refund information and withdrawal - The new‑admissions fee (5% of annual tuition) is described as non‑transferable and generally non‑refundable but can be adjusted against the first term fee; it may be refunded if notice of withdrawal is given before the start of the academic year in line with ADEK policy. The registration fee is described as non‑refundable, while paid tuition fee refunds are processed according to Ministry of Education/ADEK bylaws. Refund rules for term payments include: if a student attends two weeks or less, one full month's fees are charged; if attendance is more than two weeks but less than one month, two months' fees are charged; if attendance is more than one month, the entire term/semester fee is charged. Refunds are returned to the original payee and require a written request to the admissions office. Payment methods and payment details - Accepted payment methods include bank wire transfer, cheque, or payment in person at the school. Wire transfer details are provided in AED (account name: GEMS WINCHESTER SCHOOL ABU DHABI; Account No. 019000004294; Mashreq Bank; IBAN AE090330000019000004294; Swift BOMLAEAD) and parents are instructed to include the applicant's name and grade in the transfer memo and to add any bank service charges so the school receives the full amount. Use of the FAB GEMS World Credit Card is promoted for discounts on paying annual tuition in advance. Non‑payment consequences - Non‑payment can result in exclusion from examinations, withholding of reports and references, and potential loss of the student's place or suspension/expulsion. Regulatory approval / fee approval - The published fees are ADEK‑approved for the academic year 2025–2026. The school notes that fees are subject to change under applicable federal/private education bylaws.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are mandatory for all students and are designed for the Abu Dhabi climate. Uniforms can be purchased online via Sumeru, with a uniform vendor representative available on campus to assist; in-person purchases can be made at the Uniform Store in the Secondary Block (open Monday to Friday 8:30 am–4:00 pm, and Sunday 8:30 am–1:00 pm). The PE kit uses four colours representing the House colours, and the uniform policy includes restrictions on jewellery, makeup, nails and hairstyles.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are compulsory for all students. A full range of uniform items is available from September 2 from the school's uniform shop, with distribution following the listed process. Threads is the uniform supplier and contact details are provided; a Uniform Guide can be downloaded.
Food options	Food options The school follows a Healthy Eating and Nutrition Policy aligned with ADEK, promoting nutritious options in the school canteen and focusing on foods that support wellbeing. Food safety standards are observed with trained canteen staff, and there is an emphasis on allergy management and a nut-free environment. Nutritional education is integrated into the curriculum, and parental involvement is encouraged to support healthy eating at home.	Food options The school has a canteen selling healthy snacks and drinks during break times. The canteen emphasizes hygiene and quality control of food, with menus revised frequently.
House system	House system The school operates a four-house system comprising Hawks, Harriers, Eagles, and Falcons. The PE kit includes four colours that correspond to these houses, reinforcing house identity and spirit.	House system The school operates a four-house system. Every student and staff member belongs to one of the Houses, each with a unique identity, colour and mascot. The House system includes inter-house competitions and leadership opportunities such as House Captain and prefect roles.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Diyafah International School Abu Dhabi is owned and governed by Diyafah International School LLC. It is part of the Diyafah brand, which also includes Al Diyafah High School in Dubai, reflecting a broader group of schools under the Diyafah banner.	Governance and ownership GEMS Winchester School – Abu Dhabi is part of the GEMS Education group, a global network of private schools. The school is governed and operated under GEMS Education as part of its portfolio of schools.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Diyafah International School follows the English National Curriculum for Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) with a Pearson curriculum aligned to the National Curriculum of England. Foundation Stage follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). The curriculum includes Arabic (A/B), French and Spanish, and UAE MOE subjects such as Arabic, Islamic Studies and UAE Social Studies. English is the language of instruction for most subjects, with English as an Additional Language (EAL) support available. The school features a house system (Hawks, Harriers, Eagles, Falcons), a Student Council, and an extensive after-school extracurricular program. The school is located in Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Zone 13, Abu Dhabi; the principal is Mr. David Flint, and ADEK rates the school as an A Band Good School in e-learning.	Curriculum details GEMS Winchester School Abu Dhabi follows the National Curriculum for England. Foundation Stage 2 uses the Early Years Foundation Stage program, and from Year 1 to Year 9 students progress through England's National Curriculum levels. The curriculum includes core subjects English, Mathematics and Science, and subject areas such as Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Art and Design, Music, Physical Education, and Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE), with Modern Foreign Languages (French) offered from Year 3. The school is located in Al Danah, Abu Dhabi, and currently provides education from Foundation Stage through Year 9. There is no information indicating GCSE/iGCSE or A-Level provision at this campus.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Alumni have gained admissions to leading universities in the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Australia and the Indian subcontinent.	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented The Inclusion Policy identifies a Gifted & Talented Coordinator and the ASDAN program to support advanced learners. The Winnie D'Cunha Scholarship offers up to 50% tuition discount for high-achieving students.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school prioritises emotional and mental health as part of a positive whole-school environment. There is an ethos of constructive, caring relationships across the school built on trust, kindness, safety and security. Students have a sense of belonging and are encouraged to talk to their teachers about worries and difficulties. The school teaches social and emotional skills through the Counsellor and Social Welfare worker, helping students identify feelings, thoughts and emotions. All staff are encouraged and supported to be alert to students' behaviour and interactions, and safeguarding procedures guide responses to concerns. There is a safeguarding policy in place and staff receive safeguarding training.	Social & emotional learning The school places emotional wellbeing and positive mental health as a core aspect of its inclusion framework. It emphasises growth in emotional wellbeing and positive mental health as part of WSA's core values and approach to student development. It uses a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to identify needs early and provide escalating levels of social, emotional, and academic support. The School Head of Inclusion coordinates educational, behavioural, social, and emotional provision for students, supported by the Inclusion Teacher and Inclusion Assistants, with collaboration from teachers and external agencies. A formal identification, referral, and tracking system supports ALN/SEN identification and informs SEL planning and progress monitoring.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school has an Inclusion Policy aligned with ADEK's 2023 Inclusion Policy. There are currently 40 students registered on eSIS with additional learning needs at Tier 2 or 3 of support. Current provision uses Shadow Teachers/Individual Assistants to support these students. Standard inclusive provision includes staffing for inclusion: 2023-24 – Head of Inclusion; SEN Teacher; Gifted & Talented Coordinator; 2 Learning Support Assistants; 2024-25 – Head of Inclusion; 3 SEN Teachers; Gifted & Talented Coordinator; 8 Learning Support Assistants. The policy also provides for accessible learning spaces, inclusive teaching and learning support, assessment accommodations, and a centralised assessment, referral and tracking system.	Special educational needs (SEN) ADEK Categories of Need are integrated into the Inclusion Policy to classify Additional Learning Needs (ALN)/SEN. Identification, referral, and tracking systems identify ALN at an early stage with specialist assessment guiding provision. The school appoints a School Head of Inclusion and an Inclusion Teacher (with Inclusion Assistants) to coordinate educational, behavioural, social and emotional support, including developing Individual Education Plans (IEPs) where appropriate. The majority of students with ALN attend mainstream provision with accommodations; referrals to more specialized provision may be considered when necessary. The school maintains a register of students with ALN and their IEPs/PEEPs to monitor progress and inform provision.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The EAL Department was established in September 2018 to support learners whose first language is not English. It is currently staffed with two EAL teachers and an EAL Learning Support Assistant, led by Head of Department Trudian Pryce. The department's mission is to develop English language skills so that students academically succeed, participate globally and adapt to a diverse society. Teaching and learning take an inclusive approach: content is broken into small steps, graphic organizers are used, and exam skills such as skimming, scanning and identifying key information are taught; a bilingual dictionary is encouraged. Identification and Support involves initial assessments and GL NGRT Reading Tests and English Progress Tests to determine the level of EAL support, with students banded into waves A–E and parents notified if further support is needed. Levels of Support include Intensive Pull Out, Regular Language Pull Out, In Class Support and Regular Monitoring.	English as an additional language EAL support is embedded within the inclusion framework, with multilingual learners identified and coordinated by the School Head of Inclusion. The policy highlights inclusive admission and provision for multilingual learners as part of its approach to inclusive education. Multilingual learners are supported through differentiated teaching and appropriate accommodations within mainstream classrooms, coordinated by the Inclusion team. A separate named EAL program is not described; instead, EAL-related needs are addressed under the inclusion and multilingual learners provision. The school emphasises collaboration among staff to support multilingual learners as part of MTSS and overall inclusive provision.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The school prioritises emotional and mental health alongside physical health and safety. It fosters constructive, caring relationships built on trust, kindness and safety and aims to create a sense of belonging. Students are encouraged to talk to their teachers about worries and difficulties. A Counsellor and Social Welfare worker deliver social and emotional skills and help students identify feelings and emotions. Staff are supported to observe and respond to wellbeing and behavior in the school. Two full-time nurses provide medical support during the school day and arrangements for private consultations can be made.	Mental wellbeing Emotional wellbeing and positive mental health are explicitly named as core aspects of student development under WSA's values. The School Head of Inclusion coordinates social and emotional provision for students, with support from Inclusion staff and collaboration with external professionals as needed. MTSS provides a framework for identifying and addressing social-emotional needs and monitoring progress. The Anti-Bullying Policy supports SEL through staff training, student workshops, and resilience-building activities, contributing to mental wellbeing. Safeguarding and child-protection policies ensure a safe environment that supports students' mental wellbeing by preventing maltreatment and providing protective measures.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school has a safeguarding policy in place with procedures for staff to follow when concerns arise. The safeguarding lead works with the Wellbeing Committee, Head of Inclusion, School Counsellor and Health & Safety Officer to promote safeguarding across the school community. The policy aligns with ADEK's 2023 Inclusion Policy and ADEK regulations. The policy is effective as of 02 January 2024.	Safeguarding ADEK's School Student Protection Policy requires safeguarding measures to prevent maltreatment and to identify and support students at risk, with all staff and volunteers designated as reporters of suspected maltreatment. Roles and responsibilities for safeguarding span the Principal, safeguarding leads, staff, and parents, with clear procedures for responding to safeguarding concerns. The GEMS Student Protection Policy adds detailed safeguarding provisions, including reporting, whistleblowing, and mandatory staff training, plus case management and ongoing safeguarding oversight. The policy covers handling disclosures, online safety, bullying, and safeguarding-related governance and records, including adherence to UAE safeguarding guidance. A zero-tolerance stance on maltreatment is stated, with ongoing safeguarding training and compliance across staff to protect students and families involved in safeguarding concerns.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Diyafah International School in Abu Dhabi provides a campus with dedicated spaces to support holistic learning. The campus features a Winnie D'Cunha Hall for assemblies and events, a Design and Technology suite with a CAD/CAM room and 3D printers, and ICT facilities including intelligent panels in all classrooms and ICT laboratories. Bring-your-own-device (BYOD) is supported on the Microsoft School Network, and the school emphasizes well-resourced learning spaces to support a range of subjects and activities. The school also notes extensive after-school activities and a focus on well-being and leadership through student councils.	Facilities overview The school campus comprises a spacious ground plus two buildings housing the primary and secondary sections. Classrooms are equipped with overhead projectors, and some rooms feature Promethean interactive whiteboards or large LCD touch screens, with Wi‑Fi available throughout the campus. The indoor facilities include a large, air-conditioned multi-purpose sports hall, an auditorium for assemblies and events, and dedicated spaces for science, computer studies, and the library. The arts spaces include music rooms and Art & Craft rooms to support creative development, while outdoor spaces include sports fields and a large shaded quad. The Foundation Stage has two outside covered play areas, and on-site facilities include a canteen, a school store, a uniform shop, and a medical clinic to support daily school life, safety and convenience.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school runs an extensive after-school activities programme with external providers offering activities such as football and karate, alongside in-house options like dance, netball, badminton, yoga, and other physical activities. The environment supports a broad range of sport and fitness options as part of its extracurricular offerings.	Sports facilities The school features a spacious, air-conditioned indoor multi-purpose sports hall suitable for indoor sports and activities. There is a small outdoor sport field to support outdoor games, and a large shaded quad area for outdoor learning and recreation. Foundation Stage has two outside covered play areas that provide safe spaces for physical activity year-round. The sports facilities integrate with the PE curriculum and support a range of extra-curricular activities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities are organized around the National Curriculum for England for key stages, with English, mathematics, science and other core subjects taught under a Pearson curriculum framework. The Year 5 and Year 9 handbooks outline subject offerings that include English (Pearson), Maths (Pearson), Science (Pearson), Arabic, Islamic Studies, UAE Social Studies and languages such as French and Spanish, supported by published curriculum guides and handbooks.	Academic facilities Academic facilities include well-equipped science laboratories to support practical experiments. The school provides a computer laboratory with internet access and multimedia facilities, with additional laptops and iPads available for student use. Classrooms are equipped with overhead projectors, and many rooms have Promethean interactive whiteboards or large LCD touch screens, with Wi‑Fi available throughout the campus. The library is well-stocked with books and periodicals to support reading and research. ICT is a key component of the curriculum up to Year 9, and technology resources are integrated across lessons.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Diyafah International School offers a broad after-school enrichment programme with activities including dance, debating, chess, robotics, Lego, football, karate and other clubs, as well as ICT skills and 21st-century learning activities. External providers supplement in-house offerings to foster leadership, teamwork and creativity.	Extra curricular facilities Music rooms and an Art & Craft room provide dedicated spaces for creative development and performances. The auditorium hosts assemblies and events, offering a performance space for student productions and presentations. The library supports clubs and group study as part of extracurricular learning. Outdoor spaces, including sports fields and the large shaded quad, accommodate a range of outdoor clubs and activities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Diyafah International School, Abu Dhabi builds on the 40+ years legacy of Dubai's Al Diyafah High School. Al Diyafah High School, Dubai, was founded in 1982 and began as a nursery with two children in a villa on Al Diyafah Street, later moving to a larger campus in 2001. The Diyafah brand has evolved into a holistic education provider with an international student body. Diyafah International School, Abu Dhabi was established in 2013 on Abu Dhabi Island in Mohammed Bin Zayed City. The school's mission is Let Your Light Shine, guiding the development of competent, caring, and confident students through holistic education.	History GEMS Winchester School - Abu Dhabi opened in 2013 and delivers the National Curriculum of England from Foundation Stage to Year 9. It was modelled on the Winchester Schools in Dubai, with a structure and ethos designed to create opportunities for academic achievement alongside character development. Dr. Karon Buck has served as Principal/CEO since Academic Year 2017-18. The school has undergone ADEK inspections with a Very Good overall rating in 2018-2019, 2021-2022, and 2024-2025, reflecting sustained leadership and performance. The GEMS Alumni Network connects graduates across the global GEMS community, illustrating the school's broader ties to the education network.
Community	Community The school emphasises community engagement with parents and teachers to build an ethos of empathy and respect. Diyafah students are encouraged to participate in social initiatives across areas such as the environment, literacy, and relief aid, reflecting the school's holistic education approach.	Community The Abu Dhabi campus opened in 2013 and offers the National Curriculum of England from Foundation Stage to Year 9, modeled on the Winchester Schools in Dubai. The school emphasizes a secure, caring, personalised learning environment and maintains regular communication with parents to support each child's development. It provides a wide range of extra‑curricular activities and field trips; past trips include Emirates Park Zoo, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World. The school's ADEK inspections note strong partnerships with parents and the community, and the GEMS Alumni network reinforces connections across the wider school community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association Parent engagement at GEMS Winchester School - Abu Dhabi is organized through the Parent Partnership program. Close communication is at the core, with consultation evenings and written reports, and an open‑door policy allowing guardians to speak with staff. The program is underpinned by research emphasizing that parental engagement improves student achievement, including guidance for parents to talk, share, and encourage learning. The partnership aligns with UAE national priorities and supports students' learning as part of the school's broader community engagement. ADEK inspections rate the school's partnerships with parents as Very Good.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers a British curriculum with CAIE, Edexcel, ASDAN, and OxfordAQA exam boards. The English as an Additional Language (EAL) department supports learners with two EAL teachers and a Head of Department, Trudian Pryce. A Personal Enrichment Program extends learning beyond the classroom across academics, sport, and the arts. Extra-curricular activities are delivered after school through independent providers as part of the ECAs program.	Academic & intellectual GEMS Winchester School – Abu Dhabi opened in 2013 and offers the National Curriculum of England from Foundation Stage to Year 9. ADEK rated the school ‘Very Good' in its pedagogical review.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Art and Drama are celebrated as forms of creative expression, with opportunities to explore painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and acting. The Creative Arts program is supported by a broad music offering, including wind, string and percussion instruments, keyboards and Music Technology equipment.	Arts & creative The school provides a broad range of extra-curricular activities to support creative development, including music, art and craft, and performance opportunities as part of its holistic education.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Arabic language, History of the United Arab Emirates, and Heritage of the United Arab Emirates are part of the culture offerings. The school welcomes students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and includes the My Identity co-curricular program linked to language identity. The English as an Additional Language program supports language development for multilingual learners.	Cultural & language The school emphasizes understanding UAE culture and heritage as part of its learning framework and supports Arabic as a language of study within its ADEK outcomes.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Extra-curricular activities include Football, Robotics, 3D Designing, Space STEM, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Python Programming, Ballet, Dance, Swimming, Badminton, and Karate. The ECAs schedule runs on Tuesdays from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm.	Social & hobbies A wide range of activities supports independent thinking, collaboration, and social interaction through structured pastoral and co-curricular programs.
Community & service	Community & service The Student Council leads social responsibility initiatives and UAE-approved charity fundraising. Citizenship values include Belonging, Volunteering, and Conservation.	Community & service A focus on character development, leadership, and values creation through a personalised learning environment is integrated with parent communication and community engagement.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional There is a Senior Leadership Team and a Student Council that enables student leadership and has a concrete influence on school policy. The principal is Mr. David Flint.	Leadership & professional Leadership development is embedded through High Performance Learning (HPL) practices and a structured approach to student development across key stages.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Facilities include a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) and a 25-metre indoor pool, with shaded outdoor play areas and courts. A medical room with two full-time nurses is on site to support health and welfare. After-school activities are offered to promote wellbeing and physical development.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus includes a medical clinic, a secure campus environment, and facilities such as a canteen and transport to support student well-being and daily routines.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Arabic is taught at two levels (Arabic A and Arabic B). French and Spanish are offered in Key Stage 3. Arabic language support is available, and Quran instruction is provided for Arab and non-Arab students. The school follows the National Curriculum for England for Key Stage 3 and uses Pearson curriculum components for certain year groups (Year 5). The Pearson curriculum originates from Oxford University, England.	Language provision The school follows The National Curriculum for England and is located in Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi. Foundation Stage 2 uses the Early Years Foundation Stage program. In Year 1 to Year 9, students progress through the National Curriculum for England levels, and the school currently goes up to Year 9. The school opened in 2013 and is modeled on the Winchester Schools in Dubai. ADEK rated the school as Very Good. Contact: +971 (02) 403 5499; email [email protected]
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards The school has been rated A Band Good School in ADEK's e‑learning components.	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations The school is accredited and affiliated with international education organisations and is inspected regularly by the Department of Education and Knowledge in Abu Dhabi (ADEK).	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Admissions are open from Nursery/FS1 to Year 13 for Academic Year 2026-27, starting in September 2026. To apply, register online and submit the required attachments: passport copy of your child and the most recent school report if applicable. The admission process consists of: 1. Online application submission with the specified attachments; 2) Admission interview & tests: Stay & Play for FS1/FS2; Pearson baseline assessment for Year 1; CAT4 test for Year 2–Year 11; and an interview with the Head of Secondary or the KS Coordinator for Year 12–Year 13; 3) Acceptance & admissions: If accepted, an offer is issued by the Admissions Team. For inquiries, call the admissions team from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday at +97125585665.	Admissions 1. Online Registration. To begin the application process, submit your enquiry through the Enrol Online page. You will receive an opportunity number to keep for your records. An acknowledgement email containing next steps will be sent to the email address you provided. AY 2026-2027 admissions are open with revised age criteria. 2. Documentation. After receiving the acknowledgement email, complete your profile and upload the required documents: Emirates ID & visa of sponsor (both sides); Parent (sponsor) passport; Applicant's photo; Applicant's Emirates ID & visa (both sides); Applicant's passport; Applicant's Immunization Card; Applicant's Recent School Report / Nursery Report; Transfer Certificate (if applicable) with required attestations from MOE/MOFA/UAE Embassy for overseas transfers; Applicant Birth Certificate. The documents must be uploaded in PDF format. In overseas transfer cases, the Transfer Certificate should be attested by: Official School stamp and Principal's signature; Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country from which migrating; UAE Embassy in the country from which migrating; Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abu Dhabi. 3. Assessment. Documents will be reviewed and invited for assessments based on the availability of seats. You will be notified via email regarding assessment. 4. Enrollment. Seats will be offered once available; Admission Department will contact you (email/phone) if a seat becomes available. You will receive an offer letter via email. An online enquiry/registration does not automatically guarantee your child a seat. The school reserves the right to reject applications if the documents are not complete. Screening and assessments may be used to determine the right placement for an applicant. After registration and submission of required paperwork, students entering Years 3 to Year 9 may be asked to complete a placement test (CAT 4). Students entering Foundation Stage 2, Y01 and Y02 will meet in groups with a member of the educational team. The screening and assessment decisions are determined by the admission committee and may result in a seat offer, waitlist, or denial.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist Waitlist. If a seat is not immediately available, applicants may be placed on a waitlist. Offers are made based on seat availability and can include waitlist status. The admission committee may contact families by email or phone as seats become available.
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