GEMS Dubai American Academy vs GEMS Modern Academy

	G GEMS Dubai American Academy Dubai, United Arab Emirates	G GEMS Modern Academy Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 66,185 - 93,300	Fees / year AED 30,983 - 73,876
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Indian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,972	Pupils 3,601
Typical class size	Typical class size 12	Typical class size 28
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	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.	Location GEMS Modern Academy is located in Nad Al Sheba, Dubai. The campus sits in Nad Al Sheba 3, close to Silicon Oasis and International City, with straightforward road access from major routes. For directions or enquiries, the school can be reached by phone at 04 326 3339.
Stages	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).	Stages The school serves students from Pre-KG through Grade 12. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) runs from Pre-KG to Grade 5, and from Grade 6 there is a dual-pathway option with Indian ICSE/ISC or the IB Diploma Programme through Grade 12.
School type	School type DAA is a co-educational day school.	School type The school is co-educational. It operates as a day school and offers a day-boarding option (ICE) rather than overnight boarding.
Pupil nationality mix	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.	Pupil nationality mix The 2023–2024 DSIB inspection records 3,860 students on roll, with 0 Emirati students and the largest nationality group being Indian. This implies a local-to-international ratio of 0:3,860 (0% local, 100% international) among stated groups; the exact number of nationalities represented is not published in the DSIB report.
Additional learning support	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.	Additional learning support The school provides inclusion and SEN support; 219 students are identified as students of determination. There are 3 guidance counsellors and a sizeable teaching staff (239 teachers).
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation; the school follows an American curriculum (and offers the IB Diploma Programme).	Country affiliation The school is affiliated with CISCE (Indian Certificate Examinations) and offers the IB Diploma Programme; CISCE affiliation indicates an Indian curriculum alongside the IB pathway.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated; the school emphasizes diversity and inclusive education.	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation stated for the school. The UAE curriculum includes Islamic Education as a subject, but the school itself is not described as having a religious affiliation.
School day structure	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.	School day structure School days run Sunday to Thursday. KG1–KG2 attend 9:00 a.m.–12:55 p.m. Grades 1–12 typically run 7:40 a.m.–2:05 p.m., with the IB schedule varying by day (Sun, Tue, Wed 7:40–2:05; Mon and Thu 7:40–2:55). The Activities/Enrichment ACE runs 2:15 p.m.–4:05 p.m. Sunday–Thursday.
Bus service details	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.	Bus service details The school bus network is operated by STS Group. Buses are equipped with CCTV, GPS tracking, RFID, and other safety features, monitored by a 24/7 operations centre. To register or obtain route information and fees, contact the school's Service Delivery Executive; there are multiple routes serving Nad Al Sheba, Silicon Oasis, International City and other areas.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	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%.	Fee details Application and Registration - Application fee (online registration): AED 525 (including VAT). - Registration deposit: 10% of the total annual tuition fee, payable after an offer has been accepted and deductible from the total tuition for the academic year; this deposit is non-refundable. Annual tuition fees (per year group) — Academic year (annual amounts shown in AED) - Pre‑primary: AED 30,983. - KG1: AED 38,246. - KG2: AED 38,246. - Grade 1: AED 43,311. - Grade 2: AED 43,311. - Grade 3: AED 45,670. - Grade 4: AED 45,670. - Grade 5: AED 48,173. - Grade 6: AED 48,173. - Grade 7: AED 48,173. - Grade 8: AED 48,173. - Grade 9: AED 51,345. - Grade 10: AED 51,345. - Grade 11: AED 73,876. - Grade 12: AED 73,876. (All annual tuition figures are those published in the KHDA fee fact sheets for the school.) Per‑term amounts (calculated) - The school invoices tuition in advance and fees are payable at the start of each month; the school does not explicitly publish a fixed per‑term invoice in the fee pages. The per‑term figures below are therefore calculated by dividing the published annual tuition by three (three school terms), for reference: - Pre‑primary: AED 10,328 per term (approx.). - KG1 / KG2: AED 12,749 per term (approx.). - Grade 1 / Grade 2: AED 14,437 per term (exact). - Grade 3 / Grade 4: AED 15,223 per term (approx.). - Grade 5–8: AED 16,058 per term (approx.). - Grade 9 / Grade 10: AED 17,115 per term (exact). - Grade 11 / Grade 12: AED 24,625 per term (approx.). (These per‑term numbers are calculations based on the published annual tuition amounts; the school's published billing and payment guidance states tuition is due in advance and invoiced monthly.) Mandatory one‑off / annual small charges - School diary: AED 15.75 (including VAT). - ID card: AED 10.50 (including VAT). - Board registration fee (Grade 9): AED 55. - Exam fee (Grade 10 and Grade 12): AED 825. - Transfer certificate fee on withdrawal: AED 120. (These charges are listed as mandatory or one‑off items in the school's fee information.) Required education supplies and optional costs - Uniform: typically AED 600 to AED 2,000 for most grades; some senior grades show a higher upper estimate (up to AED 3,000). - Books and stationery: ranges vary by grade (examples in the fact sheets range from around AED 45 for very early years to over AED 1,500 for senior grades). - Optional services (examples and ranges): school transport (range dependent on route, e.g. several thousand AED per year), canteen, local and overseas educational trips, extracurricular program fees (arts, sports, language immersion), learning support assistant fees, summer camp. (Required supplies and optional service price ranges are published in the KHDA school fee fact sheets for each grade; amounts vary by grade and by service.) Sibling and other discounts - Sibling discounts: specified sibling discount tiers apply (examples published include up to 15% and higher for later siblings; the school's published guidance also lists specific sibling discount tiers). - Additional discount schemes listed include staff discounts, scholarships and corporate discounts where applicable. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition fees are due prior to the start of the academic year and are payable in advance of attendance; invoices are issued from the time of admission so payments can be processed before the start of the month. Fees will not be collected in July and August. - The application fee is payable at the time of online registration; the registration deposit is charged once an offer is accepted. - Failure to pay fees may lead to withholding of reports and examination results, loss of the child's place, or suspension/exclusion. Payment methods and options - Accepted payment methods: cash, cheque and credit card (in person at the school accounts office or via the online parent portal). - Wire transfer to the school bank account is available (bank details provided on request). - The school promotes an education‑sector credit card partnership (FAB GEMS card) and an online payments portal for parents. Boarding - The school does not publish boarding facilities or boarding fees in its fee documentation; boarding fees are not applicable. Refunds and withdrawal charges - Registration and re‑registration deposits are generally non‑refundable except in extenuating circumstances such as relocation. - Refund calculation rules published by the school: - Tuition fees paid prior to the start of the academic year are refundable with only the registration / re‑registration fees deducted. - If the student was enrolled for two weeks or less, a month's fees will be deducted. - If the student was enrolled for more than a month, a full term's fees will be deducted. - Refunds are calculated from the start of the term and the date of the official withdrawal request; refunds paid by credit card are returned to the card and cash refunds are by cheque. - A fee of AED 120 applies for the Transfer Certificate on withdrawal. Notes on invoices and additional charges - Some mandatory small charges (diary, ID card) are shown inclusive of VAT. - Optional services and required supplies are charged separately and vary by grade; transport fees are route dependent. - Re‑enrolment charges for existing students may be billed (example: up to 5% of tuition or AED 500, whichever is higher). If you require these fee items displayed in a different currency or a pre‑formatted database layout, you can use the figures above directly.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	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.	Uniform requirement All students must wear the school uniform. The standard kit for boys is a light blue shirt, navy trousers, a tie, a belt, navy socks, and black leather shoes, with a navy pullover; for girls the standard kit is a light blue shirt with a navy skirt or trousers, a belt, tie, navy socks, black leather shoes, and a navy pullover. The PE kit includes a House T-shirt with house colour piping and navy shorts or tracks; the prescribed uniform is available at THREADS in BurJuman and online via Threads.
Food options	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.	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system The school uses a house system. Students are divided into four houses named Aquila, Cygnus, Orion, and Pegasus; each house has its own colour (Yellow, Red, Green, and Blue) and is led by a Captain with House Teachers. Inter-house events cover sports and literary activities to promote teamwork and healthy competition.
Governance and ownership	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.	Governance and ownership GEMS Modern Academy is part of GEMS Education, a private, family-owned education group. The school operates within the GEMS Education network.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	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.	Curriculum details The school offers the IB Pathway (PYP, MYP and DP) and the CISCE Pathway. The PreK–Grade 5 is an IB Primary Years Programme (PYP); Grades 6–12 follow the CISCE ICSE/ISC curriculum; the IB Diploma Programme is also offered. The IB Pathway provides PYP, MYP and DP. The CISCE Pathway is affiliated to the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations. The school has KHDA rating of Outstanding.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results In 2025 ICSE had a 100% pass rate with an 88.6% overall average and 51% of students scoring 90% or above; the top score was 99.2%. ISC had a 100% pass rate, an average of 90.9%, and 73% scoring 90% or above; the top score was 99%. IBDP had a 97% pass rate, an average of 34.2 points; 14.6% scored 40+ and 51.56% scored 35+; the batch toppers achieved 45 points.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression Over the last four years, students have been admitted to 1050 universities in 53 countries, including 66 of the world's top 100 universities. The school supports university preparation through a Career Cell and partners with external organisations such as ACENTRIA for career counselling and entrance-test preparation.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented ACE (Activities for Curriculum Enrichment) includes Circinate for Gifted & Talented and high-achieving students.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	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.	Social & emotional learning SEL at GEMS Modern Academy is integrated into its holistic education model, with the IB/PYP framework explicitly aiming to develop students' social and emotional wellbeing and a sense of belonging. The IB Primary Years Programme emphasizes the development of the whole child, including social and emotional wellbeing and international-mindedness. The Kindergarten curriculum includes a focus on students' wellbeing, describing provisions that support physical, social and emotional development. Inclusion leadership is provided by an Inclusion Head (Pashu Bhattacharya), guiding inclusive practices for students with diverse learning needs. A House system supports pastoral care and fosters cooperation, resilience, and belonging through inter-house events. The school's wellbeing efforts have been recognised with awards such as the 2022 GESS Wellbeing and Inclusion Award and the 2024 SEND Inclusion Award.
Special educational needs (SEN)	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.	Special educational needs (SEN) GEMS Modern Academy publicly states an inclusive education approach and welcomes students with diverse learning needs, with inclusion leadership and dedicated support structures. The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework (2017) is incorporated to guide working practices and systems at the school. Support for students begins at admission through a thorough identification process and continues via academic and student support networks. The Inclusion Head is Pashu Bhattacharya, signaling formal SEN leadership within the school. The school identifies itself as an Inclusive School rather than a specialist SEN institution. The public materials do not publish a specific list of SEN categories the school supports.
English as an additional language	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.	English as an additional language The language of teaching at GEMS Modern Academy is English. Public materials do not describe a dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) program. Second language offerings in the senior curriculum include Hindi and French or Malayalam. EAL-related support details are not publicly disclosed. The school emphasizes inclusive education to support diverse learners, including those with EAL considerations, through its inclusion framework. English-language instruction is the default across the curriculum.
Mental wellbeing	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.	Mental wellbeing The IB Primary Years Programme targets the development of students' social and emotional wellbeing and a sense of belonging. The Kindergarten curriculum explicitly addresses students' social and emotional wellbeing as part of its learning design. A Pastoral Care approach and a House system contribute to social support, cooperation and resilience. Career Counselling provides holistic guidance to students, supporting their personal and academic wellbeing. The school's wellbeing initiatives have been recognised with awards, including the GESS Wellbeing and Inclusion Award (2022) and the SEND Inclusion Award (2024).
Safeguarding	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 Safer recruitment practices at GEMS Modern Academy align with the International Task Force on Child Protection, and the school states a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students. The school notes it has a team of trained counsellors who can assist GEMS people with a wide range of professional and personal issues. Safeguarding-related policies and practices are publicly highlighted within the Work With Us materials. The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework (2017) is incorporated to guide safeguarding-related inclusive practices. These elements together indicate a formal safeguarding framework within the school's public materials.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	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.	Facilities overview The school has five ICT suites, a STEM Lab, Budhayana – The Spark Lab – a Maker Space and Innovation Centre, and a Library for the Senior School alongside a Primary Learning Centre. It includes a Discovery Centre, an IB Lounge, and learning corridors, plus outdoor spaces such as a Meditation Garden, Planter's Patch, and a Sensorial Garden. The Phoenix Classroom serves as the Learning Management System and there is infrastructure to support Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). Regular checks and new equipment are carried out to maintain the facilities.
Sports facilities	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.	Sports facilities The school offers four basketball courts, two football fields, a cricket pitch, a volleyball court, and an eight-lane synthetic track with areas for field events such as long jump, shot put, discus throw and javelin. It has two 25-meter swimming pools (one for primary students and a main pool with facilities for water polo). There are five cricket nets with floodlights, three tennis courts, a multipurpose hall with markings for badminton and basketball, a fully equipped gym, and a cycling and roller-skating track.
Academic facilities	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.	Academic facilities The school provides educational facilities including five ICT suites, a STEM Lab, Budhayana – The Spark Lab – Makers Space and Innovation Centre, a Library for the Senior School, and a Primary Learning Centre. It includes a Discovery Centre and an IB Lounge, plus learning corridors. It has infrastructure for BYOD and the Phoenix Classroom – the Learning Management System. Regular checks and updates ensure up-to-date equipment across facilities.
Extra curricular facilities	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.	Extra curricular facilities Sports Carnival offers inter-class friendly games for Grades 6 to 8 in football, basketball, tennis, table tennis and badminton. Overnight Camp provides opportunities for fellowship and personal development. Sports Day features an inter-house march past and drill display. The campus supports performing arts with spaces such as a Music Room and Dance Studio, and adventure-based spaces like Adventure Park and Veggie-Tech Garden contribute to extracurricular experiences.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	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.	History GEMS Modern Academy was founded on 18 October 1986, establishing a long-standing private school presence in Dubai. It is part of the GEMS Education network, a global group of international schools. The school offers an IB pathway with the Diploma Programme introduced in 2014 and the Primary Years Programme added in 2021, with Middle Years Programme candidacy announced in 2021, creating dual pathways for students. The school has been rated Outstanding by KHDA since the 2011–12 inspection cycle, reflecting its sustained emphasis on quality education. It is located in Nad Al Sheba, Dubai.
Community	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.	Community The school operates a house system to promote pastoral care and a sense of belonging, with Pegasus House highlighted as part of the school's house structure. Inter-house events cover a range of sporting and literary activities and form the groundwork for competition at higher levels. The school observes and celebrates national and cultural occasions such as Independence Day, Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanti, Diwali, Eid, and Christmas, while promoting patriotism and universal brotherhood. The school also emphasizes cultural intelligence and an inclusive, globally minded learning community.
Parent teacher association	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.	Parent teacher association GEMS Modern Academy maintains a Parent Council known as Family of Modern (FOM), a parent representative group that guides and supports the school with the views and concerns of the broader parent body. The FOM consists of 22 members, one from each grade across the school, selected from the pool of Class Council members who served in the previous year, with each member holding a term of one academic year. Class Councils comprise over 100 parent representatives, with two representatives from each section per grade, and they meet monthly with the relevant grade supervisor. Monthly meetings generate input for the school, and minutes are circulated to parents and staff to ensure follow-up, with the Senior Leadership Team coordinating actions. The FOM's role is to foster academic, social, cultural and physical development, and to strengthen the link between families and the school to support students' growth.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	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.	Academic & intellectual GEMS Modern Academy offers two curricular pathways: ICSE/ISC for Grades 6–12 and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. The ICSE/ISC pathway is affiliated to CISCE and follows the CISCE curriculum for Grades 6–12, with Arabic, English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies among core subjects; second languages available at Grades 6–8 include Hindi, French or Malayalam, with Arabic as required in higher grades. The middle years blend CISCE regulations with 21st‑century teaching practices to help students identify strengths, skills and ambitions. The IB pathway provides a full continuum with PYP, MYP and DP across age ranges: PYP for PreK–Grade 5, MYP for ages 11–15, and DP for ages 16–19.
Arts & creative	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.	Arts & creative GEMS Modern Academy offers dedicated arts facilities as part of the Student Life program, including a Music Class and a Dance Studio. The campus also houses a Library and a Makers Space Innovation Centre to support creative work. The school's extracurricular program includes arts-related activities in music, drama and visual arts.
Cultural & language	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.	Cultural & language The ICSE/ISC Pathway includes Arabic, English Language and English Literature as core subjects, with Hindi, French or Malayalam offered as second language options. The curriculum supports languages across grade levels and UAE requirements in higher grades. The school is a Round Square School, linking to a global network that fosters international exchange and global competencies.
Social & hobbies	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.	Social & hobbies The Student Life program includes a broad range of extracurricular activities such as Extra Curricular Activities, School Trips and Competitions and Debates. It participates in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award and National Games, providing opportunities for teamwork, leadership and community involvement. Student Leadership is an active component of school life, offering avenues for initiative and peer engagement.
Community & service	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.	Community & service Community Outreach is part of the Student Life program, with volunteering and charity initiatives that connect students with local and global communities.
Leadership & professional	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.	Leadership & professional Student Leadership is an active part of school life, with student government and leadership opportunities. Career Counselling is available to support students' post‑secondary planning.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	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.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus provides extensive sport and wellness facilities, including a 8-lane synthetic track, a swimming pool and a basketball court. The site also features an auditorium and a library to support physical activity, performance and study. Pastoral care and wellbeing programs are part of the school's support structure.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	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.	Language provision English and Arabic are language subjects within the ICSE/ISC pathway. Second language options in Grades 6–8 are Hindi, French, or Malayalam. In Grades 9, Arabic is required as an additional subject, and in Grades 11–12 English from Group 1 is compulsory. The school offers PreK–5 through the PYP, Grades 6–12 through the CISCE ICSE/ISC pathway, and the IB Diploma Programme.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
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.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards Apple Distinguished School (2019–2022)	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations NEASC, CIS, IBO (as part of the school's program offerings; KHDA Outstanding rating since 2011)	Accreditations —
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.	Admissions 1. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year are open. Limited seats remain for 2025-2026. Age guidelines apply: Pre-KG 3 years old by 31 March; KG1 4 years old by 31 March; KG2 5 years old by 31 March; Grade 1 6 years old by 31 March. These guidelines determine the entry year for applicants. 2. To start the admissions process, submit the Online Enquiry to initiate registration. You will receive an SR number after successful online registration; the dates for the interview/entrance test are emailed to you. Admission is granted on the basis of the interview and entrance test. 3. At registration, supply documents: the child's passport, visa and Emirates ID; and parents' passports, visas and Emirates IDs. Also provide the birth certificate (English or Arabic), two passport photos and two years of school reports. 4. A School Health Form is required, and a Transfer Certificate is needed at enrolment; overseas applicants may need attestations depending on origin, with attestation not required for transfers from the UK, US, Canada, Australia or Europe. 5. Withdrawals must be completed online; after withdrawal, submit the Transfer Certificate request to the school with a fee of AED 126 (payable online). The Transfer Certificate is then issued by the school.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships GEMS Scholarships are merit-based and reward students in academics, Creative & Performing Arts, Sports, Innovation & Digital Technology, or Arabic Studies. The award is a concession determined on a case-by-case basis and is valid for a single academic year with renewal based on academic progress. Scholarship applications are handled online. The scholarship application for the academic year 2025-26 is currently closed.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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