Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills vs GEMS Dubai American Academy

	D Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills Dubai, United Arab Emirates	G GEMS Dubai American Academy Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 44,979 - 79,696	Fees / year AED 66,185 - 93,300
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,700	Pupils 2,972
Typical class size	Typical class size 12	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The campus is located in the Emirates Hills neighbourhood of Dubai, on First Al Khail Street near the Montgomerie Golf Course. It is accessible by major roads and sits among upscale residential areas. Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is the longest established IB continuum school in Dubai.	Location GEMS Dubai American Academy is in Al Barsha, Dubai, at the intersection of Sheikh Zayed Road and Hessa Street. The campus sits on a 23-acre site with modern facilities and easy access to major roads and the Dubai Metro. The location places it within a well-connected Dubai neighborhood offering quick links to the city's transport network.
Stages	Stages The school offers the International Baccalaureate continuum (PYP, MYP, DP, and CP) from KG to Year 13. This includes the full IB pathway for primary through senior years.	Stages DAA serves students from kindergarten through Grade 12. The school comprises Elementary (KG to Grade 5), Middle School (Grade 6–8) and High School (Grade 9–12).
School type	School type Co-educational, day school.	School type DAA is a co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body represents over 90 nationalities; the school states it welcomes students of all nationalities and religions. The largest nationality group is not officially published.	Pupil nationality mix The school represents 105 nationalities. The largest groups include American, Canadian, Indian, Egyptian, South Korean, Lebanese and Turkish students, with no single nationality dominating the student body. The school hosts a large international student population; a local Emirati presence exists but is not the majority. An approximate local-to-international ratio reported by third-party data sources is around 1 local student for every 44 international students.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning support comprises inclusion provision, English as an Additional Language (EAL), and targeted interventions. The school provides Individual Education Plans (IEPs/ALPs), counselling, and partnerships with specialists such as speech therapists, educational psychologists, and occupational therapists to support students with special needs or gifts and talents.	Additional learning support Inclusion and Special Educational Needs (SEN) support are available across the school. Inclusion Support is a K-12 program with push-in and pull-out models, including an Alternative Pathways Program for individualized learning. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for students new to English, and there are specific pathways for students with IEP goals in higher levels.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation. The school accepts students from any nationality and operates as part of Innoventures Education with a diverse international community.	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation; the school follows an American curriculum (and offers the IB Diploma Programme).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation; the school welcomes students of all religions.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated; the school emphasizes diversity and inclusive education.
School day structure	School day structure School day timings vary by year group. KG1–KG2 run Mon–Thu with a start around 7:00–7:40 and early finish; Fridays are half-days (end around 12:00). Year 1–Year 6 run Mon–Thu from about 7:40–3:00 with a lunch break, and CCAs run after school; Fridays end around 12:00.	School day structure The school day starts at 7:40am. Dismissal times are 2:50pm for K1–Grade 5 and 2:55pm for Grades 6–12, with Friday being an early-release day on a staggered schedule. The academic week runs Monday to Friday.
Bus service details	Bus service details Arab Falcon Bus Rental LLC provides the school's bus service. Buses are GPS-tracked with CCTV on board; seat allocation depends on route availability. For the 2024–2025 academic year, transport fees are around AED 8,200 per year, with a one-way option available at AED 6,150.	Bus service details The official transport provider is School Transport Services (STS). Buses are ISO-certified, equipped with GPS and CCTV, and operated in coordination with the school to ensure safe travel. Applications require a registration form, terms and conditions, and related safety documents; fees are paid to STS. All transport inquiries should be directed via the STS contact listed by the school.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Entrance fees - Entrance test fee (new applicants): AED 525. This is a one-off payment, payable prior to taking the test and prior to admission; the fee is non-refundable but is adjustable against Term 1 fees for the year of admission. Tuition fees — summary by year group (academic year 2025–2026) Note: amounts are shown in UAE Dirhams (AED). Two fee schedules are published: Schedule A for existing students and Schedule B for new students. For each entry below the breakdown is: Annual fee; Annual enrollment / re-enrolment (advance payment) — payable 04 Apr 2025; Term 1 fee — payable 25 Aug 2025; Term 2 fee — payable 05 Jan 2026; Term 3 fee — payable 06 Apr 2026. - KG1 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 44,979; Annual re-enrolment AED 0; Term 1 AED 17,991; Term 2 AED 13,494; Term 3 AED 13,494. - KG2 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 50,726; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,535; Term 1 AED 17,755; Term 2 AED 15,218; Term 3 AED 15,218. - Year 1 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 51,202; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,560; Term 1 AED 17,920; Term 2 AED 15,361; Term 3 AED 15,361. - Year 2 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 3 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 4 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 5 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 6 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 7 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 65,224; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,260; Term 1 AED 22,830; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 8 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 65,224; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,260; Term 1 AED 22,830; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 9 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 65,224; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,260; Term 1 AED 22,830; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 10 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 72,482; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,625; Term 1 AED 25,367; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 11 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 72,482; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,625; Term 1 AED 25,367; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 12 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 79,696; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,985; Term 1 AED 27,893; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. - Year 13 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 79,696; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,985; Term 1 AED 27,893; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. - KG1 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 44,979; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 4,500; Term 1 AED 13,491; Term 2 AED 13,494; Term 3 AED 13,494. - KG2 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 50,726; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,075; Term 1 AED 15,215; Term 2 AED 15,218; Term 3 AED 15,218. - Year 1 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 51,202; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,120; Term 1 AED 15,360; Term 2 AED 15,361; Term 3 AED 15,361. - Year 2 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 3 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 4 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 5 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 6 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 7 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 65,224; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 6,520; Term 1 AED 19,570; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 8 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 65,224; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 6,520; Term 1 AED 19,570; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 9 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 65,224; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 6,520; Term 1 AED 19,570; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 10 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 72,482; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,250; Term 1 AED 21,742; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 11 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 72,482; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,250; Term 1 AED 21,742; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 12 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 79,696; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,970; Term 1 AED 23,908; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. - Year 13 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 79,696; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,970; Term 1 AED 23,908; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. Billing schedule and payment terms - Published payment dates for the 2025–2026 fee schedule are: Annual re‑enrolment / advance payment due 04 Apr 2025; Term 1 due 25 Aug 2025; Term 2 due 05 Jan 2026; Term 3 due 06 Apr 2026. Term and advance payment amounts are shown in the Schedule A (existing) and Schedule B (new) breakdowns above. - Post‑dated cheques are accepted for Term 2 and Term 3 fee payments. Boarding fees - Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills operates as a day school; there are no boarding fees because the school does not provide boarding. Other costs and additional charges - A non-exhaustive list of additional costs charged separately includes: stationery; educational and field trips (costs invoiced case-by-case); voluntary excursions or sports tournaments with incurred costs; school uniforms and team kits; external examination fees; meals; transportation; and other activities for which costs accrue to the school. Some items may be provided by independent suppliers and will be subject to those suppliers' own terms and refund policies. - English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision, when required by the school, carries an annual charge of AED 4,500; this fee is payable when EAL provision starts and is non-refundable. - Sibling discount: 0% generally; a 10% discount applies for the fourth child onwards. Refund information - Entrance test fee (AED 525), the annual enrolment / advance payment for new students (10% of annual fees as shown in Schedule B), and the EAL annual charge (AED 4,500) are specified as non-refundable. Some other items purchased from independent suppliers are subject to those suppliers' refund terms. Fee payment options and bank details - Accepted payment methods include: online payment via the school's payment portal (login with student ID and date of birth); bank transfer; cheque (made payable to Dubai International Academy with student ID, name and grade on the back, and hand-delivered to the Accounts Office if required); credit card payments at the school premises; and cash (with a signed, stamped receipt to be taken). Parents sending bank transfers should include the child's ID, name and school name in the transfer and send a copy of the remittance/transfer advice or SWIFT message to accounts@diadubai.com to enable timely update of records. Post‑dated cheques for Term 2 and Term 3 are accepted. - Bank transfer details provided for payments are: Account Name: Dubai International Academy; Account No.: 010493150923; IBAN: AE860330000010493150923; SWIFT: BOMLAEAD; Bank: Mashreq Bank; Branch: Riqa, Dubai, UAE. Notes and miscellaneous - All textbook lists for secondary students are published for the academic year and textbooks may be purchased from the school at cost price; parents may alternatively buy textbooks independently but it remains mandatory that students own the required books specified by the school. Some extra‑curricular activities and trips will carry separate charges notified when applicable.	Fee details Application Fee - Application fee: AED 525 (Application AED 500 + VAT AED 25). The application fee is payable at the time of application. It is refundable only if the school does not offer a place (unless registration is carried forward) and is non‑refundable if a place is offered but not taken. Registration and Re‑registration Deposits - Registration deposit (new students): 10% of the total tuition fees. This deposit is payable after an offer is accepted, is non‑refundable, and is deductible from the total tuition fees for the academic year. - Re‑registration deposit (returning students): 5% of the total tuition fees. This deposit is payable to guarantee a place for the following academic year, is non‑refundable, and is deductible from the total tuition fees. Annual Tuition Fees (by year group) and per‑term breakdown - KG1 and KG2: AED 66,185 per year. - Term 1 (40%): AED 26,474.00. - Term 2 (30%): AED 19,855.50. - Term 3 (30%): AED 19,855.50. - Grades 1–12: AED 93,300 per year. - Term 1 (40%): AED 37,320.00. - Term 2 (30%): AED 27,990.00. - Term 3 (30%): AED 27,990.00. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition is invoiced in advance and is payable prior to the start of the academic year or at the start of each term. Schools may invoice tuition from the time of admission if enrollment occurs mid‑year. - Standard instalment structure: first term 40% of the annual tuition, second term 30%, third term 30%. Payments are due at the beginning of each term. - Registration deposit is charged after offer acceptance to secure the seat; re‑registration deposit is charged at re‑enrollment to guarantee a place for the next year. Both deposits are deductible from the year's tuition but are non‑refundable except in extenuating circumstances. Payment methods and bank details - Accepted payment methods: online via the GEMS Connect App or GEMS Parent Portal, direct bank transfer, cash, cheque, or credit card at the school fee counter. Online fee payment is accessible through the school's online payment portal. - Wire transfer details (payee account information as provided for school fee payments): - Bank: First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB). - Account name: GEMS Dubai American Academy. - Account number: 4031006721554001. - IBAN: AE180354031006721554001. - SWIFT: NBADAEAAXXX. - Important: quote the applicant's name and grade and allow for any bank charges so the full fee amount is received. - Discount on advance payment: a GEMS/FAB co‑branded credit card discount is available for advance fee payment (details and terms apply). Inclusions and exclusions (what the annual tuition covers and excludes) - Included in tuition: loaned items such as books and an iPad for Elementary and Middle School students; registration for internal after‑school activities is included where specified. - Not included in tuition: school uniforms, transport (school bus), student lunch, and external activity offerings. Middle and High School students are expected to provide their own laptops. Sibling discount - Sibling discount: 15% discount applies for the fourth child; 25% discount applies for the fifth child and above. Other fees and typical additional costs - Uniforms: charged separately (uniforms are not included in the tuition). - Transport (school bus): charged separately according to route and provision; not included in the tuition. - Lunch and external activities: charged separately; external activity program fees are not included in tuition. - Technology expectations: Elementary and Middle students receive a loaned iPad as noted above; Middle and High School students should provide their own laptop (additional costs for hardware and insurance may apply). Boarding - The school operates as a day school; boarding facilities are not provided. There are no boarding fees. Refunds and withdrawal terms - Registration and re‑registration deposits are non‑refundable except in extenuating circumstances (for example, relocation to another Emirate/country or other unforeseen circumstances). - Refund calculation for paid tuition (examples of deduction rules applied when a student withdraws): - Tuition paid prior to the beginning of the academic year is refundable with only registration/re‑registration fees deducted. - If a student was enrolled for two weeks or less, a one‑month fee will be deducted from any refundable amount. - If a student was enrolled for more than two weeks but less than one month, two months' fees will be deducted. - If the student was enrolled for more than one month, the full term's fees will be deducted. - Refunds are calculated from the start of the term to the official withdrawal request date (being on the register counts as days in school). Refunds are returned via cheque. - Student withdrawal procedure: written notification of withdrawal must be submitted to the Registrar; a 30‑day notification period is required to prepare documents. Non‑payment and administrative charges - Non‑payment consequences: the school may issue reminders, temporarily suspend a student (up to 3 school days in a term) after issuing warnings, withhold learning resources and official documents (transfer certificates, reports, transcripts) for accounts with outstanding fees, and may not re‑register students with outstanding fees. Legal action and recovery costs may be pursued for outstanding fees. - Returned cheque fee: AED 500 per returned cheque. Notes on specialist programs and additional charges - An additional fee applies for students placed on the English Language Learner (ELL) program where applicable. Additional program fees and charges (for example, specific external trips or certain external activities) may apply depending on participation. Summary of the most essential numeric items - Application fee: AED 525. - Registration deposit (new): 10% of tuition. Re‑registration deposit (existing): 5% of tuition. - Annual tuition: KG1/KG2 AED 66,185; Grades 1–12 AED 93,300. Per‑term instalment split normally charged as 40% / 30% / 30%.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements DIA Emirates Hills operates as a day school with no boarding provision. Students attend on-site during the day and return home after lessons.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement DIA Emirates Hills uses a designed school uniform for all students. The uniform is supplied by ZAKS Uniform Store, Al Barsha, and items can be viewed/bought online with free home delivery via ZAKS. All uniform items must be clearly labelled.	Uniform requirement DAA maintains a formal, grade-spanning uniform policy. The elementary daily uniform requires KG1–Grade 2 red polo shirts (Grades 3–5 wear blue polo shirts) with blue shorts or slacks for boys and blue skirts or slacks for girls, plus a school tie and white, black or navy socks; non-marking trainers are required and a cap is used for outdoor activities. Seasonal wear includes a blue logo sweatshirt or blue logo sweater, and outerwear may be worn to and from school, but non-uniform items are not allowed on regular days. Middle and high school students wear a regulation shirt or blouse, with an optional unisex polo, and dark blue trousers or skirts (MS girls may wear a dark blue skort or trousers; HS girls may wear a skirt or trousers); PE uniforms are worn on PE days. Uniforms can be purchased from Threads at Time Square Centre (Al Quoz) with a pre-booked fitting appointment; Threads' shop hours are 10am–10pm.
Food options	Food options Kalo Hospitality is the on-site catering provider. Cafeterias offer breakfast options (including a live egg station) and smoothies, bakery items, fresh salads and sandwiches, and a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian lunches. Primary students can order pre-packaged meal boxes delivered to classrooms; meals are managed via a mobile app.	Food options Food service is provided by Slices Catering, with two cafeterias, two kiosks, and a parent cafe in the atrium. KG1–Grade 2 meals are eaten in classrooms with a classroom delivery service, while Grades 3–5 eat in the elementary canteen and Grades 6–12 in the middle/high school canteen; hot meals and a variety of options, including salads and sandwiches, are available. Slices operates a cashless payment system linked to student IDs, with monthly menus published and updated regularly; there is also classroom delivery for younger students and a dedicated contact for the catering team.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership DIA Emirates Hills is governed by a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council. The Board includes the owners and an independent member and oversees strategy, policies, leadership appointments, and financial stability. The Advisory Council comprises parents, Innoventures Education management, and a Board Director, meeting several times a year to guide development. The school is part of Innoventures Education, led by the CEO, Poonam Bhojani.	Governance and ownership GEMS Dubai American Academy is GEMS Education's flagship American school, indicating it is part of the GEMS Education group. The school has a dedicated DAA Board that oversees the achievement of strategic aims and objectives and meets at least five times a year. The school is owned and operated within the GEMS Education network.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills offers the International Baccalaureate continuum, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3–12, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11–16, the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16–18/19, and the Career-related Programme (CP). In the Diploma Programme, Year 12–13 students may pursue the IB Diploma or IB Courses; the Diploma requires six subjects (one from each Group 1–6), with three HL and three SL, plus the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS. The MYP (Years 7–11) supports inquiry-based learning and includes a Year 11 Personal Project and a Year 9 Community Project, with a focus on intercultural awareness and service. The PYP (ages 3–12) centers on six transdisciplinary themes and six subject areas, providing a coherent frame that leads into the MYP. Arabic is compulsory KG1–Year 9 with Arabic A for native speakers and Arabic B for non-natives; Modern Foreign Languages (French or Spanish) are offered from primary Year 3 and again in secondary from Year 7, with a Mother Tongue program for multiple languages. English is the language of instruction for most subjects, with English Language and Literature available at HL/SL in DP, and additional language options including Arabic, French and Spanish, plus a Mother Tongue program.	Curriculum details GEMS Dubai American Academy offers an enriched American Curriculum for KG1 through Grade 12, with the option to concurrently pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the last two years of high school; graduates earn an American High School Diploma and may also obtain the IB Diploma or an IB Certificate. From Grade 9, the program is aligned to Common Core for ELA/Math and NGSS for Science, with CT state standards guiding other subjects, and students can pursue the IB Diploma or AP courses as part of university preparation. The Elementary School (KG1–Grade 5) provides a standards-based program that includes core academics plus a broad program of arts, physical education, Arabic for native and non-native speakers, Islamic Education for Muslim students, library and instructional technology, supported by a 1:1 iPad program and inclusive education. The Middle School (Grades 6–8) offers core subjects with electives (French and Spanish) and a strong advisory/wellbeing framework; Grade 6 students trial a range of electives before selecting three to study in Grades 7–8. AP is offered in the High School with 19 AP courses across six disciplines plus AP Capstone, and the IB Diploma option remains available in the final years; the school teaches in English with Arabic mandated by MOE and Spanish/French offered from Grade 6.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning DIA Emirates Hills supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Learning Support Program, which includes emotional support and school counselling delivered by a team of dedicated specialists, counsellors and advisors who monitor student progress. The program develops individual life plans for identified students, addressing four areas: inside the classroom, after-school activities, clubs/teams/events, and external activities, with plans created and regularly reviewed with input from students, parents, teachers and counsellors. There is a strong emphasis on differentiation in the classroom to meet diverse needs and on providing an inclusive learning environment. The Inclusion provisions purposefully support Students of Determination and Gifted and Talented learners alongside general education. Mentoring for At-Risk students and college counselling are integrated to support wellbeing and future pathways.	Social & emotional learning SEL is supported via the WISE Center (Wellbeing, Inclusion, Safeguarding & Environment) on the GEMS Dubai American Academy campus, which provides holistic student wellbeing services, alongside the High School Counseling department that offers well-being, academic, career and university counseling.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) In DIA Emirates Hills, inclusion is supported by a holistic Inclusion framework that provides appropriate provision, resources and curricular options for identified students. Students receive Individual Education Plans (IEP) or Advanced Learning Plans (ALP) with targeted strategies, and progress is tracked through regular meetings with teachers and administration, as well as informal assessments and intervention classes delivered by qualified specialists. There are exam access arrangements and partnerships with external specialists such as speech therapists, educational psychologists and occupational therapists to support assessment and provision. The SENDCo roles (Kindergarten & Primary SENDCo and Secondary School SENDCo) coordinate and guide teachers, parents and external professionals, with support from the ALPHA coordinators for Gifted and Talented learners. The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework 2017 informs inclusion practice and KHDA guidance on inclusion is cited in the school's materials.	Special educational needs (SEN) GEMS Dubai American Academy uses a K-12 Inclusion Delivery Model with a Graduated System of Support for Students of Determination, development of Individual Education Plans, and services including 1:1 interventions, Academic Support Classes, co‑teaching, and in‑class support, with inclusion staff such as SEND/Learning Support teachers and counselors, and it is not described as a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) support starts in Year 1 for non-English speakers and continues in the Secondary School from Year 7 to Year 11. EAL teaching staff work with small composite groups in designated EAL classrooms or join homeroom classes to support learners, depending on needs. The programme aims to strengthen fluency in English for school and wider community use, with focus on expanding vocabulary, oral and written skills, listening and comprehension, and building confidence. The EAL provision is designed to enable students to progress toward full engagement with the Language A Programme after about a year in many cases. EAL is closely linked with mainstream programmes to support academic progress, identity, and self-worth.	English as an additional language The school provides an English as an Additional Language program for students new to English, which is distinct from inclusion support, and EAL learners receive push‑in and/or pull‑out support.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through emotional support and school counselling as part of the DIA Emirates Hills Learning Support Program. A holistic approach underpins wellbeing, with the Inclusion Team aiming to ensure access to high-quality education for every student and to foster personal growth, confidence and happiness. Wellbeing support is delivered by the same multidisciplinary team that monitors student progress and coordinates targeted interventions. The program emphasizes inclusivity and differentiated support to nurture resilience and social-emotional development for Students of Determination and Gifted and Talented learners. This framework aligns wellbeing with academic progress and broader development goals.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the WISE Center and the High School Counseling department, with the WISE Center dedicated to Wellbeing, Inclusion, Safeguarding & Environment, and the counseling team delivering wellbeing services.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The DIA Emirates Hills page for Student Support does not publicly disclose safeguarding or child-protection policies. Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework 2017 provides the regulatory context for inclusive practice in Dubai, and KHDA guidance informs inclusion practices in the emirate, but specific school-level safeguarding procedures are not described on the page. If safeguarding details are required, inquiries should be directed to the school's inclusion or admissions contacts. The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework and KHDA resources offer broader context for safeguarding-related considerations in Dubai's private schools.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in the campus via the WISE Center and supported by GEMS Education's safeguarding framework, including an independently chaired safeguarding structure, staff vetting, and policy adherence, with UAE laws and KHDA guidance reflected in the Inclusion Policy.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is an international private school in Emirates Hills, Dubai for Boys & Girls aged 3–18. The campus spans 482,000 square feet. It includes a networked library and specialist rooms for music, design & technology, art, dance, drama, and language learning, plus a music and movement room for kindergarten. It features fully equipped science labs, computer labs, and design technology labs, along with outdoor learning spaces. Four climate-controlled multipurpose halls support sports and other activities, along with three swimming pools, a fully grassed outdoor playing field with shaded play areas, and shaded outdoor basketball and tennis courts.	Facilities overview GEMS Dubai American Academy sits on 23 acres in Al Barsha and spans about 70,000 square meters of campus facilities. The campus provides full provision for athletics and performing arts, with a 50-meter Olympic pool, a 400-meter running track, a large gymnasium, playing fields, and shaded playgrounds. There are theaters and dedicated studios for music and the arts for all grade levels. The libraries and achievement center support academic work, and the WISE Center supports wellbeing, inclusion, safeguarding and environment. The spaces are designed to be flexible and to foster collaboration, creativity, and wellbeing across both campuses.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The campus includes four climate-controlled multipurpose halls for sports and other activities. It has three swimming pools and a fully grassed outdoor playing field with shaded play areas and shaded outdoor basketball and tennis courts. The outdoor spaces support a range of physical education and team sports. These facilities support a broad range of athletic programs as part of co-curricular activities.	Sports facilities The 70,000-square-meter campus offers purpose-built facilities for athletics and competitive sport. The largest sports hall in the region accommodates three full-size basketball courts. The facilities include a 50-meter Olympic pool, a 400-meter running track, and outdoor spaces such as tennis and basketball courts, a soccer field, shaded playgrounds, roof play areas and three soccer pitches, plus a baseball diamond. Indoor amenities include two gymnasiums, an indoor running track, a fitness suite, and an indoor golf simulator with sports science classrooms for performance analysis. Outdoor and indoor spaces support year-round physical education and competitive sport.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is an IB World School offering PYP (Years 1–6), MYP (Years 7–11), DP (Years 12–13) and IBCP (Years 12–13). It follows an inquiry-based, holistic, international curriculum with a broad, balanced, conceptual, and connected approach. The campus includes a networked library and specialist rooms for music, design & technology, art, dance, drama, and language learning, plus a dedicated music and movement room for kindergarten. It provides fully equipped science labs, computer labs, and design technology labs to support science and technology education. Arabic is compulsory for KG1–Year 9; from Year 3, primary students study French or Spanish; from Year 7, secondary students study either French or Spanish. A Mother Tongue Programme offers 2–3 hours per week of language instruction for native speakers of multiple languages; this is provided as an extra paid activity with classes for languages including Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and Mandarin. The school also offers a Future Skills Programme and a Career Counselling service.	Academic facilities Classrooms are fully equipped and arranged in a serpentine layout with shared learning and breakout zones for each grade level. Dedicated Arabic language rooms are located throughout the campuses, alongside a library and achievement center. The WISE Center supports wellbeing, inclusion, safeguarding and the environment. The Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, together with ten cross-disciplinary science laboratories and technology suites, underpins STEM learning. Visual arts facilities include 2D and 3D art studios, a ceramics studio with kiln, and a photography darkroom, while performing arts spaces include purpose-built music rooms and rehearsal spaces.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills offers a variety of Co-Curricular Activities for students, including art, reading club, musical instruments, drama, organized sport activities, karate, computer courses, science clubs, photography and more, in a supervised setting. A Future Skills Programme and Career Counselling are available. The element of co-curricular activities is complemented by language and pastoral support programs.	Extra curricular facilities Internal extracurricular activities cover a wide range of clubs and programs for KG2 through Grade 12, including Leading Leopards, Ball Games, Soccer, Rugby, Cricket, Science Club, Chess Club, Dancing and Movement, Arabic Reading, Sewing, Book-Craft, Math Games, Mindful Art, Robotics, Choir, and Drama; activities vary by term and are available through the ESM portal. External activities are provided through ESM and the Centre for Musical Arts, offering athletics, arts, science, music and language programs plus holiday camps. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered to Grade 9–12 students to develop skills, service, fitness and expeditions. The school participates in MESAC and Junior EAC competitions, with seasonal athletics and activities described for Middle School and High School. Student leadership also features a School Council and a Student Innovation Team to enhance learning opportunities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Dubai International Academy, Emirates Hills (DIA EH) was established in September 2005 as the original DIA campus in the Emirates Hills area, created to offer the full International Baccalaureate continuum. It was the first school in the UAE to be authorised by the IB to offer PYP, MYP, DP and CP, making it a pioneer of the IB continuum in the country. The school is operated by Innoventures Education, and has grown to host more than 2,000 students from over 77 nationalities. DIA EH holds regular accreditation with the Council of International Schools (CIS) and NEASC, and has Green Flag status from Eco-Schools UAE, underscoring its commitment to quality and sustainability. As the flagship DIA campus, the Emirates Hills site has informed the brand's expansion, including the 2018 opening of Dubai International Academy, Al Barsha, and ongoing growth into new DIA campuses such as Dubai International Academy, Town Square, planned to open in August 2026.	History GEMS Dubai American Academy opened in 1998 as a small school with a big vision. It is GEMS Education's flagship American school. The campus sits on 23 acres in Al Barsha and features a modern, purpose-built facility to support its programs. The school has held KHDA Outstanding status since 2011, reflecting its long-standing commitment to academic excellence. Celebrating over 25 years of education, DAA has established a legacy as a leading American-curriculum school in Dubai.
Community	Community DIA Emirates Hills serves a diverse community of more than 2,000 students from over 77 nationalities. The school hosts the Dubai International Academy Model United Nations (DIAMUN), a THIMUN-affiliated conference that is among the region's largest, attracting delegates from multiple schools and countries. The Eco Club leads long-running environmental campaigns and has been involved in COP28-related model events and other initiatives recognized in national media for environmental action. Family and community events, including the Winter Souk and International Evening, are organized with active parent participation through PADIA.	Community DAA's community extends beyond current students and values involvement from parents and alumni. The school reports a diverse student body representing 104 nationalities, reflecting an international community. A culture of kindness guides daily life and supports positive behavior. DAAPA coordinates a wide range of family-facing activities, including guest speakers, welcoming new students, the International Food Festival, Winter Carnival, school dances, movie nights, and cultural celebrations such as Diwali.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association PADIA, the DIA Emirates Hills Parents Association, is a formal body of DIA parents with a core group of volunteers and elected leaders who plan events and initiatives for students, parents and staff. PADIA has a constitution and an on-site office, and its members meet with school leadership; meetings typically occur at least twice a week to coordinate activities. The association runs events such as parent coffees with guest speakers, the Winter Souk, International Evening, movie nights, and bake sales, and coordinates fundraising activities as well as a pre-loved uniform and textbook shop. PADIA also runs a welcoming programme for new families and maintains open communication channels with school leadership through parent representatives.	Parent teacher association DAA Parent Association (DAAPA) is the formal parent organization for Dubai American Academy; membership begins automatically when you enroll your child. DAAPA's mission is to build unity among parents, faculty, administration, students and staff and to enrich the lives of the students, aligning with the school's aims. DAAPA runs a wide range of activities and projects: guest speakers, welcoming new students, the International Food Festival, school dances, movie nights, and homeroom support. The association stages a Winter Carnival annually and a Gala to celebrate milestones, along with cultural celebrations like Diwali. DAAPA leadership includes an executive committee with positions such as president and vice president, and parent volunteers provide essential support to school life.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills offers the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP, CP) from KG1 to Year 13. Learning emphasizes inquiry-based, holistic and internationally minded approaches within a broad, connected curriculum. DP outcomes are strong, with a 100% DP pass rate and outstanding results.	Academic & intellectual The school offers an enriched American curriculum to students of all nationalities. Students graduate with the American High School Diploma. The option to concurrently pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma is available in the last two years of high school, and select Advanced Placement courses are offered. The school has been rated Outstanding by KHDA since 2011.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The campus provides spaces for music, design & technology, art, dance and drama, and language learning. Co-curricular activities include art, reading club, musical instruments, drama, organised sport activities, karate, computer courses, science clubs and photography. A dedicated music and movement room with sprung floors supports kindergarten learning, and the arts are integrated into the broader campus facilities.	Arts & creative Arts is a component of Student Life at the school. The program provides arts as part of the after‑school activities alongside Athletics. There are more than 50 after‑school activities per term for KG2 to Grade 8. Elementary and Middle School are Apple Distinguished School (ADS) for 2019–2022.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Arabic is compulsory for all students in KG1 to Year 9, with Arabic A for Arab nationals and Arabic B for non-Arab nationals. From Year 3, Primary students have the option of French or Spanish as part of the Modern Foreign Languages programme, with 120 minutes of instruction per week. In Secondary from Year 7, both French and Spanish are offered and students choose. Mother tongue programmes include Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish, Swedish and Turkish, with targeted weekly hours.	Cultural & language 105 nationalities are represented at the school. Global Citizenship is a focus within Student Life. The curriculum combines American and IB elements to support a diverse, international student body.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies A broad range of co-curricular activities supports social engagement and hobbies, including art, reading clubs, musical instruments, drama, organized sports, karate, computer courses, science clubs and photography. The campus facilities support varied activities with climate-controlled spaces and outdoor play areas. Nearly all sports have strong participation, with many teams competing at Division 1 level.	Social & hobbies Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered as an External Activity. Internal Activities include Athletics and Arts as part of Student Life. There are more than 50 after‑school activities per term for KG2 to Grade 8.
Community & service	Community & service GIVE, Innoventures Education's philanthropic initiative, mobilises students, staff and families to support education and access to clean water, with significant fundraising and on-the-ground projects. GIVE has sponsored libraries and schools in multiple countries and has raised over AED 3 million to date. The DIA community participates in activities such as packing stationery kits for under-resourced UAE students and other charitable projects.	Community & service The DAA community includes parents and alumni, reflecting an extended school network beyond current students. Global Citizenship is emphasized through Student Life experiences. The Duke of Edinburgh Award supports volunteering and service components as part of extracurricular offerings.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development is a key focus, with opportunities through Model United Nations, The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Eco Club, Water for Life Club, DI@TECH, Debating, Science, Robotics, Business Minds and more. The school emphasises university preparation, including dedicated career counselling from age 14 and a track record of university placements at institutions worldwide. The Enquiry Form highlights a full IB offering and extensive language and leadership pathways to support student trajectories.	Leadership & professional The Leadership Team has over 200 years of combined experience. The DAA Board oversees the school's strategic aims and objectives. The Center of Excellence in AI and Robotics is the first of its kind. Elementary and Middle School hold Apple Distinguished School status for 2019–2022.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Pastoral care and wellbeing are central to the DIA experience, with a Learning Support programme designed to help every student succeed in and outside the classroom. The community emphasises social, emotional and physical wellbeing as part of daily life and learning. Campus facilities — including four multipurpose halls, three swimming pools and shaded outdoor play spaces — support active and healthy living.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Campus enhancements include a dedicated student wellbeing center. A Health Clinic operates on campus. The school promotes wellbeing via a culture of kindness and student support resources.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Arabic is compulsory for KG1 to Year 9. From Year 3 onwards in primary, students may study French or Spanish, with 120 minutes of MFL instruction per week. In secondary, both languages are offered from Year 7. A Mother Tongue program provides 2-3 hours per week of language instruction in Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and Mandarin, scheduled within the timetable and taught by native-speaking teachers; the language of instruction is English.	Language provision English is the main language of instruction. Arabic is taught for native and non-native speakers as required by the ministry. Spanish and French are offered from Grade 6 onwards as part of the curriculum. World languages are available as electives and activities.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs The school offers an English Language Learner (ELL) program with a sheltered immersion model to support multilingual learners in developing social and academic English while accessing grade-level content.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards Apple Distinguished School (2019–2022)
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations NEASC, CIS, IBO (as part of the school's program offerings; KHDA Outstanding rating since 2011)
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions —	Admissions 1. Applications for the 2026-2027 school year are open. Applications are submitted online via the Apply Online link. An acknowledgement with the next steps is sent after inquiry. The language of instruction is English. 2. GEMS Dubai American Academy serves KG1 through Grade 12. Age requirements apply for placement, and grade placement is determined as part of the admissions process. A transfer certificate is required to complete registration; without it, registration cannot proceed. The admissions team guides families through the process. 3. Prospective students undertake assessment tests before a place is offered. For grades 1–12, MAP evaluates math, reading and language. CAT4 assesses verbal, non-verbal, quantitative and spatial reasoning. If overseas, a CAT4 assessment can be arranged with the current school; recent MAP or CAT4 reports may expedite the process. 4. The admissions decision is based on a holistic review of the application, past school records and entrance assessments. MAP and CAT4 results contribute to the assessment of readiness. The Registration Team guides families through the enrollment steps and communicates outcomes. 5. Enrollment and classroom scheduling are coordinated by the Admissions Team. Tours are available by appointment; Middle School tours start at 9:00 am and Elementary/High School tours at 9:30 am, Tuesday to Thursday. The Admissions Team supports families through the enrollment journey. 6. The Virtual Admissions Center provides a 1-on-1 virtual call with the Admissions Director and a virtual tour. On-campus tours are available by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Gabrielle Keane serves as Admissions Director.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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