Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills vs GEMS Wellington International School

	D Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills Dubai, United Arab Emirates	G GEMS Wellington International School Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 44,979 - 79,696	Fees / year AED 47,527 - 103,399
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 2,700	Pupils 2,904
Typical class size	Typical class size 12	Typical class size 13
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 Wellington International School is located in the Al Sufouh area of Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road near Interchange 4. The campus sits on eight acres of grounds. The school is in a central, well-connected part of the city.
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 The school serves children from 3 to 18 years old (FS1 to Year 13). It uses a Lower School (FS1–Year 4), Middle School (Year 5–Year 8) and Upper School (Year 9–Year 13) structure with pathways through the British curriculum and the International Baccalaureate.
School type	School type Co-educational, day school.	School type Co-educational day school; there are no boarding facilities.
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 In the 2023–2024 DSIB inspection, the school roll was 2,904 students, with 71 Emirati pupils and the largest nationality group being Indian. The school represents a very diverse community with around 90 nationalities represented; local Emirati share is about 2% and international students about 98%.
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 GEMS Wellington International School has an Inclusion policy and supports students with diverse learning needs. The Inclusion Team includes a SENDCo for FS1–Year 6 and a SENDCo for Year 7–Year 13, with personalised targets and differentiated materials. Admission is not conditional on a medical diagnosis, and there are formal processes to involve parents in inclusion planning.
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 The school operates as a British overseas school, offering the UK National Curriculum alongside the IB Diploma Programme.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation; the school welcomes students of all religions.	Religious affiliation The school has no religious affiliation; admissions state that religion is not a barrier to entry.
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 Most school days start around 7:20–7:45 am and finish around 4:00 pm, with Friday timings shorter (around 12:00 pm). Variation by year group is expected.
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 Transport is provided by STS Group. Buses are GPS-tracked and equipped with CCTV, Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), RFID, and a 24/7 Operations Control Centre. To register, contact the school's Service Delivery Executive; a Transportation Rate List and Dubai School Transport Manual are available; bus route availability cannot be guaranteed for every request.
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 - AED 525 payable at the time of applying (inclusive of VAT). - Refund / deduction conditions: refundable if no place is offered; non‑refundable if a place is offered but not taken; not deductible from total tuition if a place is accepted. Tuition fees (per term and annual, by year group) - FS1: Term 1 AED 19,011; Term 2 AED 14,258; Term 3 AED 14,258; Annual AED 47,527. - FS2: Term 1 AED 23,944; Term 2 AED 17,959; Term 3 AED 17,959; Annual AED 59,862. - Year 1: Term 1 AED 23,944; Term 2 AED 17,959; Term 3 AED 17,959; Annual AED 59,862. - Year 2: Term 1 AED 23,944; Term 2 AED 17,959; Term 3 AED 17,959; Annual AED 59,862. - Year 3: Term 1 AED 23,944; Term 2 AED 17,959; Term 3 AED 17,959; Annual AED 59,862. - Year 4: Term 1 AED 23,944; Term 2 AED 17,959; Term 3 AED 17,959; Annual AED 59,862. - Year 5: Term 1 AED 23,944; Term 2 AED 17,959; Term 3 AED 17,959; Annual AED 59,862. - Year 6: Term 1 AED 23,944; Term 2 AED 17,959; Term 3 AED 17,959; Annual AED 59,862. - Year 7: Term 1 AED 33,016; Term 2 AED 24,762; Term 3 AED 24,762; Annual AED 82,540. - Year 8: Term 1 AED 33,016; Term 2 AED 24,762; Term 3 AED 24,762; Annual AED 82,540. - Year 9: Term 1 AED 33,016; Term 2 AED 24,762; Term 3 AED 24,762; Annual AED 82,540. - Year 10: Term 1 AED 37,151; Term 2 AED 27,864; Term 3 AED 27,864; Annual AED 92,879. - Year 11: Term 1 AED 37,151; Term 2 AED 27,864; Term 3 AED 27,864; Annual AED 92,879. - Year 12: Term 1 AED 41,359; Term 2 AED 31,020; Term 3 AED 31,020; Annual AED 103,399. - Year 13: Term 1 AED 41,359; Term 2 AED 31,020; Term 3 AED 31,020; Annual AED 103,399. Billing schedule and payment terms - School year is divided into three term invoices: Term 1 (September–December), Term 2 (January–March) and Term 3 (April–June). - Tuition fees are due in advance of attendance and payable at the start of each term; fees are invoiced from the time of admission so payment can be processed before term start. - To secure an offered place, a non‑refundable registration deposit of 10% of the yearly fee for that grade must be paid within 7 days; the first term's invoice is reduced by this amount. - To secure a seat for the next academic year, a re‑registration deposit of 5% of the annual school fee is required; this is non‑refundable but adjustable against the first term's fees. Refund information and withdrawals - Tuition refund rules (applied as invoiced and processed on receipt of a written request by the admissions office): - If a student attends 2 weeks or less: charged one month's tuition. - If a student attends more than 2 weeks and less than one month: charged two months' tuition. - If a student attends one month or more: charged three months' tuition. - Tuition refunds are provided to the original payee. School management may make exceptions for compassionate reasons at its discretion. - Formal withdrawal requires submission of a Transfer Certificate (TC) request via the parent portal; there is a TC processing fee of AED 120 where applicable for transfers within Dubai or outside the Emirate. Boarding fees - Boarding: not applicable. The school operates as a day school and does not charge boarding fees. Other costs and optional charges - Uniform: a full uniform policy and guidance is in place; specific uniform item prices are not listed on the uniform guidance page and are charged separately via the supplier or school procurement process. - Transport: school bus service is offered through the appointed transport provider; transport fees are charged separately and a transport rate list is available for download. - Additional optional charges commonly invoiced separately include extra‑curricular activities, external trips, examination fees and canteen/meal accounts; these optional services are charged in addition to tuition and may be invoiced separately by the school or service provider. Registration / re‑registration - Registration (to accept an offered place): non‑refundable deposit of 10% of the annual fee for the offered grade, payable within 7 days; this reduces the first term invoice. - Re‑registration for the next academic year: non‑refundable deposit of 5% of the annual fee, adjustable against the first term's fees. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods: Cash; Cheque (payable to GEMS Wellington International School); Online payment; Wire transfer to the school bank account (bank transfer details are provided by the school/accounts team). - Payments can be made in person at the school or by wire transfer/online channels; bank transfer details and an online payment option are provided for parents.
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 The school does not offer boarding and operates as a day school. KHDA/IB records list boarding facilities as DAY, confirming there is no on-site residential provision. Families relocating should plan for day attendance and local housing options.
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 Uniform is mandatory for all students. Post-16 students wear a black, dark navy or grey smart suit with a white shirt, while younger students follow the school's uniform guidelines including tucked-in shirts, skirts below the knee or with tights, and full-length trousers with smart black shoes. Head coverings must be plain black, white, or navy, and a PE kit is worn for physical education.
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 On-site catering is provided via a large cafeteria with a kitchen serving lunches and snacks. The on-site facilities indicate the kitchen serves a variety of lunch and snack options and Year 7–11 have access to refreshment services in the cafeteria.
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 Wellington International School is part of the GEMS Education group, which owns, operates and manages a global network of private schools. The Dubai page for GEMS Wellington International School situates it within the GEMS Education network, and GEMS Education describes itself as the largest operator of private education.
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 Wellington International School delivers the National Curriculum of England from Foundation Stage through Year 11, with GCSEs taught in Years 10–11. In Years 12 and 13, the school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and the IB Career-related Programme, complemented by a careers programme. Middle School (Years 7–9) follows the National Curriculum for England with subject specialists, and Year 8 includes elective subjects such as Design Technology, Food and Nutrition, Art, Music, Drama, Entrepreneurship, Emerging Technology and Sustainable Design. Upper School provides GCSE study in Key Stage 4, with Year 10 marking the start of a two-year GCSE course. The curriculum emphasizes a mastery approach, inclusion, and a broad range of subjects across English, Mathematics, Science, Languages, Humanities, Arts, and Physical Education.
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 The Counselling Department provides a wellbeing support system for students, parents, and staff, following International School Counselling Association (ISCA) practices. There are three school counsellors: Lower School (FS-Year 4), Middle School (Year 5-9), and Upper School (Year 10-13) who offer support to students experiencing difficulties. They provide individual and group counselling, classroom sessions, resilience-building, social-emotional support, mindfulness, and support for exam-stress and friendship/relationship issues. They also support families and teachers through webinars on parenting skills and wellbeing topics, and address trauma and bullying issues. The counselling team collaborates with staff and families to ensure students are academically, socially and emotionally prepared to be empathetic and balanced global citizens.
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) The Policy of Provision for Students of Determination implements a whole-school, inclusive education approach with early identification and a graduated support system. The school uses a Wave framework (Wave 1–3) to determine provision levels, with Wave 3 involving an Individualised Education Plan (IEP) and potential specialist input. KHDA recognises 12 categories of SEND, including Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Developmental Delay, and English as an Additional Language (EAL). The Inclusion Team includes the Governor for Inclusive Education, the Director of Inclusion/SENDCo for different year bands, an ASD Specialist, and Inclusion Language Development Specialists, and coordinates with external professionals as needed. Admission is not refused based solely on SEND, and staff use provision maps and IEPs to plan and monitor individual support; there is an emphasis on partnership with parents and ongoing staff development.
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 EAL/ELL policy defines EAL as students whose first language is not English, and notes that over 60% of the student body are EAL; the EAL classification is independent of English proficiency level. The aims are to enable EAL/ELL students to access the curriculum fully, to provide a safe, welcoming environment, and to ensure attainment appropriate to individual abilities. Learning and teaching include outside-class listening, speaking, reading, and writing support, with teachers and learning support assistants, plus extensive use of visuals, key vocabulary, and contextual clues; home-language considerations and bilingual resources are promoted. Ongoing assessment and data-tracking monitor language development and academic progress, with progression decisions based on multiple factors beyond test scores. The ELL provision strategy includes interventions (Tier 3 specialist lessons where needed), personalised Learning Profiles, scaffolded teaching, extracurricular support such as the Watch Me Fly EEE Club, Home Language Support, and collaboration among staff, parents, and external agencies; students exit ELL when they demonstrate independence and age-appropriate English proficiency.
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 The wellbeing framework is anchored in the Counselling Department, which provides dedicated support for mental health, including resilience-building, mindfulness, trauma support, and social-emotional development. Wellbeing is explicitly referenced as a core consideration within the EAL policy's inclusive aims, highlighting the school's commitment to students' mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Student voice and leadership initiatives foster wellbeing by promoting agency, confidence, and peer support, including a senior leadership team and student councils. Safeguarding policies reinforce mental wellbeing by ensuring safe environments, safeguarding training, and access to counselling as part of safeguarding provisions. The school emphasizes collaboration among students, families, and staff to support holistic wellbeing and the development of healthy, balanced lives.
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 an overarching policy with modules covering Child Protection, Attendance, Behaviour Management, Anti-bullying (including cyberbullying), Counselling, IT Acceptable Usage, First Aid, Health and Safety, Safer Recruitment, Code of Conduct, Whistleblowing, SEND, Missing Child Policy, and Intimate Care. The policy aligns with UAE Children's Rights Law and UK Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance, based on Working Together to Safeguard Children frameworks. All staff have a responsibility to provide a safe environment, be alert to signs of abuse, identify children who may need extra help, and work with external services as needed. An emphasis on e-safety, safeguarding procedures, and staff training underpins daily practice to protect students. Parents and students are involved where practicable, and concerns are shared with appropriate agencies as part of safeguarding practice.
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 The campus spans eight acres in Dubai and is designed for flexible indoor and outdoor learning. Classrooms are fitted with interactive whiteboards and full internet connectivity to support students' use of their own devices. Lower School provides EYFS outdoor zones—construction, water, music, sand and gardening—and specialised spaces including a food technology kitchen, science lab, art workshops, green screen, 3D printers and robotics. Middle and Upper School offer break-out learning spaces and subject-specific teaching areas, with science laboratories and technology workshops. Creative and performing arts facilities include a 472-seat theatre, specialist music rooms and a media suite with a green screen, two library rooms, the Falcon Centre for Sixth Form IT and social spaces, a large cafeteria, and extensive sports facilities including a 25m indoor pool, outdoor pool, a full-size 3G floodlit turf, gym, a large multi-purpose hall, tennis/basketball/netball/volleyball courts and a dance studio.
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 sports facilities include a full-size 3G floodlit astro turf, a health and fitness studio, a large multi-purpose sports hall and a gymnasium with a viewing gallery. Tennis, basketball, netball and volleyball courts, plus a 25m indoor swimming pool and an outdoor pool, support a wide range of PE and extracurricular sports. Additional outdoor play areas and a dance studio complete the sports and activity spaces.
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 Academic facilities include classrooms with interactive whiteboards and reliable Wi‑Fi to support student device use. The Lower School features a food technology kitchen, science laboratory, art workshops, green screen, 3D printing and robotics facilities for hands‑on learning. Middle and Upper School provide subject‑specific teaching spaces and fully equipped science laboratories and technology workshops to support practical work.
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 Creative and performing arts facilities include a 472-seat theatre, specialist acoustic music rooms and 1:1 music tuition rooms, and a media suite with green screen facilities, supported by two library rooms for study. The Falcon Centre provides a Sixth Form hub with dedicated IT spaces and social areas, while the campus includes a large cafeteria to support dining and learning activities.
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 Wellington International School was established in 2005 and is part of the GEMS Education network. It is located in the Al Sufouh area of Dubai, on Sheikh Zayed Road near Interchange 4. The school operates a combined British National Curriculum and International Baccalaureate programme for students from Foundation Stage to Year 13. The eight-acre campus features facilities including a theatre (WIS Theatre) and an observatory. GEMS Wellington International School has held KHDA Outstanding ratings since the 2009-2010 academic year.
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 The community extends beyond current students, and the school values its parents and alumni. WIS hosts a range of events and cultural activities that bring the school family together, with programs such as International Day, the Winter Fair, and Ramadan and Diwali celebrations. The school emphasizes ongoing engagement with families through parent groups and alumni networks.
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 WIS Wellington International School Parents' Association (WISPA) is a proactive parental body that supports the school in social, academic, performance, sporting and fundraising activities. WISPA organizes guest speakers, social events, coffee mornings, and meet-and-greet sessions for new families, and provides volunteering opportunities across school life. The association maintains parent support networks through its Facebook page and IncludeME groups. For students, WISPA coordinates events such as International Day, the Winter Fair, and Ramadan and Diwali activities. WISPA also runs adult sporting events and fundraising initiatives to support school projects. These activities help connect families, staff and students, strengthening the sense of community at WIS.
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 follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales. It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP), and IB Courses, with 26 DP subjects and 2 CP Pathways. GCSE-style skills are mapped to the Diploma Programme as students progress from the Lower School (FS1–Year 4) through Middle School to Upper School. The school serves students aged 3 to 18 across Lower, Middle and Upper School.
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 Explore Enrich Excite (EEE) provides a fully inclusive extracurricular programme across six domains: Sports, STEM, Creative, Language and Literature, Music and Performing Arts, and Wellbeing. Weekly residencies with Urdang International and Gemma McMeel West End provide specialist music, dance and drama instruction and culminate in performances at a Gala. Termly concerts and opportunities such as the Music Council support student performance and leadership in the arts.
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 The school has a Modern Foreign Languages department led by Georgina Hart. The language of instruction is English. The department supports language learning as part of the school's overall curricula.
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 Explore Enrich Excite (EEE) covers six domains, including Sports, STEM, Creative, Language and Literature, Music and Performing Arts, and Wellbeing. Sports squads include basketball, football, netball, swimming, rugby, athletics, tennis, gymnastics and cricket, with opportunities to compete in local leagues. Music provisions include choirs and instrument groups, termly concerts and broader performance opportunities.
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 Duke of Edinburgh International Award is offered, with Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. Creativity, Activity & Service (CAS) is a core IB Diploma Programme element undertaken by Year 12 and Year 13. The school also participates in global initiatives and competitions such as TEDx, Model United Nations, and the World Scholars Cup.
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 Sixth Form students in Year 12 and Year 13 may apply for Head Boy and Head Girl, with Deputy positions and leadership responsibilities. There are additional leadership opportunities through the Explore Enrich Excite programme and other student leadership activities.
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 The Counselling Department provides wellbeing support for the whole community, with Lower, Middle and Upper School counsellors offering individual and group sessions, mindfulness, and social-emotional support. The wellbeing programme includes resources for parents and webinars. The Dubai 30x30 Initiative is incorporated to promote daily physical activity across the school community.
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 The school follows The National Curriculum for England and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. It operates an English as an Additional Language (EAL) and English Language Learners (ELL) framework to support learners acquiring English. The EAL/ELL policy recognises students' home languages and supports developing English alongside their first language, including the use of bilingual dictionaries to aid language acquisition. ELL provision includes targeted interventions, and in some cases ELL specialist lessons may replace Modern Foreign Languages (MFL); Arabic Exemption can be sought for Tier 3 ELL students, with such students attending MFL during Arabic lesson times. There is an explicit Arabic EAL/ELL policy, and Arabic language leadership is present in the school, including a Deputy Head for Arabic and Islamic Lead.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards KHDA Outstanding for many years; the school highlights its accreditation and honors across multiple bodies.
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations The school is KHDA accredited with Outstanding ratings and holds additional accreditations including COBIS, COBISCouncil of British International Schools, and UK-based recognition such as BSO. It is a member of international accreditation networks.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions —	Admissions 1. GEMS Wellington International School follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales and the International Baccalaureate. The academic year runs from August to June. Admission may occur during the academic year if a place is available and KHDA guidelines permit. The school currently has limited availability across year groups. 2. Complete online application and pay a AED 525 (inclusive of VAT) application fee. Application fees are accepted in the form of AED cheque, cash, bank transfer or an online payment. The Admissions Team provides next steps after submission. 3. Prepare and submit supporting documents: birth certificate copy (in English or Arabic), student passport copy, student visa copy, Emirates Card ID copy (both sides), immunisation certificate copy, most recent school report/nursery (past 2 years) copy, Medical Declaration and Mandatory Information Forms, sponsor passport copy, sponsor visa copy, sponsor Emirates ID copy, and a personal statement for Year 5 upwards. To start the evaluation process, email the most recent school/nursery reports to the Academic Team for review. For Year 5 upwards, include a personal statement (no more than 400 words) about the student's hobbies, talents and achievements. 4. For Year 5 upwards, provide a personal statement (no more than 400 words) describing the student's hobbies, talents and achievements. 5. Entry criteria state the school does not discriminate against any child or family and that it is a truly international institution with limited spaces for children with additional learning needs. 6. Foundation Stage/Lower/Middle/Upper School reports will be reviewed by the academic teaching staff and, if deemed necessary, may be followed by an assessment or interview. 7. Places for new students, especially in Foundation Stage and Lower School, may be limited; parents are advised to contact the Registrar to understand current enrolment availability. 8. Students wishing to undertake the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) must have achieved a minimum standard in their GCSEs or equivalent to take the Diploma. IB courses and the Careers Programme are also offered. Enrol Online is available for applicants.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships GEMS Scholarships are the largest merit-based scholarship opportunity in the UAE. The candidates benefit from a concession amount determined on a case by case basis and the scholarships are awarded for a single academic year with the possibility of renewal based on academic progress. The school is currently not accepting scholarship applications.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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