American School of Dubai vs GEMS Dubai American Academy

	A American School of Dubai Dubai, United Arab Emirates	G GEMS Dubai American Academy Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 60,571 - 102,303	Fees / year AED 66,185 - 93,300
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,072	Pupils 2,972
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The American School of Dubai is located in Al Barsha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits at the intersection of First Al Khail Street and Hessa Street, opposite the Saudi German Hospital, in Al Barsha 1. The 23-acre, purpose-built Al Barsha campus offers extensive facilities including libraries, performing arts spaces, athletics venues, and aquatic facilities.	Location GEMS Dubai American Academy is in Al Barsha, Dubai, at the intersection of Sheikh Zayed Road and Hessa Street. The campus sits on a 23-acre site with modern facilities and easy access to major roads and the Dubai Metro. The location places it within a well-connected Dubai neighborhood offering quick links to the city's transport network.
Stages	Stages ASD is an all-through PreK–12 school. It comprises Early Learning (PreK 3, K1, K2), Elementary School, Middle School, and High School, with a progression from foundational years through to college-preparatory programs.	Stages DAA serves students from kindergarten through Grade 12. The school comprises Elementary (KG to Grade 5), Middle School (Grade 6–8) and High School (Grade 9–12).
School type	School type The school is co-educational and operates as a day, not-for-profit institution.	School type DAA is a co-educational day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix ASD enrolls around 2,000 students from more than 80 countries. The student body represents about 87 nationalities, with the most represented group holding North American passports (over 70%). Official materials do not publish a precise local-to-international ratio; external sources estimate local students form a small minority in the overall mix.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.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support ASD provides a learning support program and enrolls a managed number of students needing additional learning support under an Individualized Service Agreement (ISA). A Special Education service is available for eligible students, with a separate facility fee in addition to tuition (AED 51,300 for those requiring services, as specified in the ISA).	Additional learning support Inclusion and Special Educational Needs (SEN) support are available across the school. Inclusion Support is a K-12 program with push-in and pull-out models, including an Alternative Pathways Program for individualized learning. English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided for students new to English, and there are specific pathways for students with IEP goals in higher levels.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation ASD follows a United States curriculum and describes itself as an international, not-for-profit school; it is not formally affiliated with a specific country.	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation; the school follows an American curriculum (and offers the IB Diploma Programme).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation None; ASD has no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated; the school emphasizes diversity and inclusive education.
School day structure	School day structure Classrooms open at 8:10 a.m. and learning begins at 8:20 a.m. On Monday–Thursday, PreK dismisses at 1:00 p.m., K1 at 2:00 p.m., and K2–G12 at 3:20 p.m. On Fridays, all students finish at 12:00 p.m.	School day structure The school day starts at 7:40am. Dismissal times are 2:50pm for K1–Grade 5 and 2:55pm for Grades 6–12, with Friday being an early-release day on a staggered schedule. The academic week runs Monday to Friday.
Bus service details	Bus service details ASD's official bus provider is School Transportation Services (STS). STS offers GPS tracking, electronic attendance, seat belts, centralized operations, and a campus liaison; there are multiple daily departures from campus to numerous Dubai neighborhoods. Specific routes and pricing are arranged through ASD's Admissions Office.	Bus service details The official transport provider is School Transport Services (STS). Buses are ISO-certified, equipped with GPS and CCTV, and operated in coordination with the school to ensure safe travel. Applications require a registration form, terms and conditions, and related safety documents; fees are paid to STS. All transport inquiries should be directed via the STS contact listed by the school.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - There is no fee to submit an application. - Once a place is offered, a non-refundable registration fee of AED 1,000 is invoiced with the first tuition payment. Seat reservation / tuition deposit - After a place is offered, a non-refundable seat reservation (tuition deposit) is required to secure the seat; the seat reservation is credited against the total school fees. The school's payment terms treat the seat reservation as non‑refundable for new students. Tuition & Facility Fees (Academic year shown on the school's published fee schedule) - PreK (Pre‑Kindergarten): Tuition AED 60,571 per year. - K1: Tuition AED 64,092 per year. - K2: Tuition AED 69,961 per year; Facility Fee AED 12,984 per year (applies K2–G12 for non‑corporate seat holders). - Grades 1–12: Tuition AED 89,319 per year; Facility Fee AED 12,984 per year (applies K2–G12 for non‑corporate seat holders). - Currency note: the school publishes a USD conversion rate used for reference. Special‑education / Students of Determination - For students who require Special Education Services (as specified in an Individualized Service Agreement), an additional fee of AED 51,300 applies in addition to the standard school fees for the year shown. One‑time and capital fees - Capital Fee (one‑time for new non‑corporate seat holders or for current students no longer holding corporate seats): AED 22,000. - The Capital Fee may be paid in three annual instalments (the school publishes an instalment option). Other routine or optional costs - Facility Fee: AED 12,984 per year for K2–G12 (non‑corporate seat holders). - Uniforms: Students are required to wear a school uniform; uniforms (including PE kit) are available from an official local vendor or the school store and represent an additional family cost. - Personal technology and supplies: Families should budget for personal laptops for Grades 6–12 and standard school supplies. - Learning experiences and trips: Required and optional program costs (examples include Week Without Walls for Middle School, INSPIRE global trips for High School, and other school trips or activities) are charged in addition to tuition. - Transport: School bus service is available through the school's transport provider; transport incurs a separate fee. The published school pages describe the bus service but do not publish a fixed transport tariff on the main fee summary. Refunds and withdrawal charges - The registration fee and the Capital Fee are non‑refundable. Seat reservations are non‑refundable for new students and non‑refundable for returning students after the published deadline. - Refunds of tuition and facility fees are calculated on a term basis and depend on the date of the official withdrawal request; rules specify minimum non‑refundable amounts depending on the length of enrolment (for example: students enrolled two weeks or less — one month's Tuition & Facility fees are not refundable; more than a month — the full term's Tuition & Facility fees may not be refundable). - Fees paid prior to the beginning of the academic year are refundable subject to deduction of the Seat Reservation and Registration fees. Billing schedule and payment terms - Re‑enrolment and key payment timing: the school's re‑enrolment process requires on‑time payment obligations (the published re‑enrollment note references a June 1 payment requirement and the need to supply post‑dated checks or direct debit for re‑enrollment). Failure to meet the June 1 payment or to provide required post‑dated checks/direct debit means the seat is forfeited. - Payment methods accepted: bank transfers (corporate and individual), cash, local check, wire transfer, direct debit, post‑dated checks, and locally issued Visa and MasterCard credit/debit cards for online payments. - Instalment options: the school publishes instalment arrangements for individuals including an Emirates NBD 0% credit‑card instalment plan, and direct debit monthly or quarterly options; corporate arrangements and other instalment plans are available. Boarding / residential fees - Boarding is not applicable. The American School of Dubai operates as a day school and does not list boarding accommodation or boarding fees in its fee schedule. Fee payment practical notes - Capital, facility, tuition and any special‑education fees are invoiced as described above; the seat reservation and registration fee are credited or retained according to the payment terms and refund rules. - For questions about instalment plans, deadlines, or to obtain specific payment schedules and transport charges for a particular grade, the school's business/finance office is identified as the contact point on the school pages. Summary of the most significant fee items (AED) - Annual tuition (selected): PreK AED 60,571; K1 AED 64,092; K2 AED 69,961; Grades 1–12 AED 89,319. - Annual Facility Fee (K2–G12, non‑corporate seat holders): AED 12,984. - One‑time Capital Fee (new non‑corporate seat holders): AED 22,000. - Registration fee (invoiced when a place is offered): AED 1,000. - Additional Special Education charge where applicable: AED 51,300.	Fee details Application Fee - Application fee: AED 525 (Application AED 500 + VAT AED 25). The application fee is payable at the time of application. It is refundable only if the school does not offer a place (unless registration is carried forward) and is non‑refundable if a place is offered but not taken. Registration and Re‑registration Deposits - Registration deposit (new students): 10% of the total tuition fees. This deposit is payable after an offer is accepted, is non‑refundable, and is deductible from the total tuition fees for the academic year. - Re‑registration deposit (returning students): 5% of the total tuition fees. This deposit is payable to guarantee a place for the following academic year, is non‑refundable, and is deductible from the total tuition fees. Annual Tuition Fees (by year group) and per‑term breakdown - KG1 and KG2: AED 66,185 per year. - Term 1 (40%): AED 26,474.00. - Term 2 (30%): AED 19,855.50. - Term 3 (30%): AED 19,855.50. - Grades 1–12: AED 93,300 per year. - Term 1 (40%): AED 37,320.00. - Term 2 (30%): AED 27,990.00. - Term 3 (30%): AED 27,990.00. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition is invoiced in advance and is payable prior to the start of the academic year or at the start of each term. Schools may invoice tuition from the time of admission if enrollment occurs mid‑year. - Standard instalment structure: first term 40% of the annual tuition, second term 30%, third term 30%. Payments are due at the beginning of each term. - Registration deposit is charged after offer acceptance to secure the seat; re‑registration deposit is charged at re‑enrollment to guarantee a place for the next year. Both deposits are deductible from the year's tuition but are non‑refundable except in extenuating circumstances. Payment methods and bank details - Accepted payment methods: online via the GEMS Connect App or GEMS Parent Portal, direct bank transfer, cash, cheque, or credit card at the school fee counter. Online fee payment is accessible through the school's online payment portal. - Wire transfer details (payee account information as provided for school fee payments): - Bank: First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB). - Account name: GEMS Dubai American Academy. - Account number: 4031006721554001. - IBAN: AE180354031006721554001. - SWIFT: NBADAEAAXXX. - Important: quote the applicant's name and grade and allow for any bank charges so the full fee amount is received. - Discount on advance payment: a GEMS/FAB co‑branded credit card discount is available for advance fee payment (details and terms apply). Inclusions and exclusions (what the annual tuition covers and excludes) - Included in tuition: loaned items such as books and an iPad for Elementary and Middle School students; registration for internal after‑school activities is included where specified. - Not included in tuition: school uniforms, transport (school bus), student lunch, and external activity offerings. Middle and High School students are expected to provide their own laptops. Sibling discount - Sibling discount: 15% discount applies for the fourth child; 25% discount applies for the fifth child and above. Other fees and typical additional costs - Uniforms: charged separately (uniforms are not included in the tuition). - Transport (school bus): charged separately according to route and provision; not included in the tuition. - Lunch and external activities: charged separately; external activity program fees are not included in tuition. - Technology expectations: Elementary and Middle students receive a loaned iPad as noted above; Middle and High School students should provide their own laptop (additional costs for hardware and insurance may apply). Boarding - The school operates as a day school; boarding facilities are not provided. There are no boarding fees. Refunds and withdrawal terms - Registration and re‑registration deposits are non‑refundable except in extenuating circumstances (for example, relocation to another Emirate/country or other unforeseen circumstances). - Refund calculation for paid tuition (examples of deduction rules applied when a student withdraws): - Tuition paid prior to the beginning of the academic year is refundable with only registration/re‑registration fees deducted. - If a student was enrolled for two weeks or less, a one‑month fee will be deducted from any refundable amount. - If a student was enrolled for more than two weeks but less than one month, two months' fees will be deducted. - If the student was enrolled for more than one month, the full term's fees will be deducted. - Refunds are calculated from the start of the term to the official withdrawal request date (being on the register counts as days in school). Refunds are returned via cheque. - Student withdrawal procedure: written notification of withdrawal must be submitted to the Registrar; a 30‑day notification period is required to prepare documents. Non‑payment and administrative charges - Non‑payment consequences: the school may issue reminders, temporarily suspend a student (up to 3 school days in a term) after issuing warnings, withhold learning resources and official documents (transfer certificates, reports, transcripts) for accounts with outstanding fees, and may not re‑register students with outstanding fees. Legal action and recovery costs may be pursued for outstanding fees. - Returned cheque fee: AED 500 per returned cheque. Notes on specialist programs and additional charges - An additional fee applies for students placed on the English Language Learner (ELL) program where applicable. Additional program fees and charges (for example, specific external trips or certain external activities) may apply depending on participation. Summary of the most essential numeric items - Application fee: AED 525. - Registration deposit (new): 10% of tuition. Re‑registration deposit (existing): 5% of tuition. - Annual tuition: KG1/KG2 AED 66,185; Grades 1–12 AED 93,300. Per‑term instalment split normally charged as 40% / 30% / 30%.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are worn by all students from PreK to 12. The uniform design respects UAE host country culture and reinforces the school's core values of compassion, excellence, integrity, respect, and responsibility. Uniforms are purchased through designated local vendors, and there are no uniforms sold on campus; P.E. kits (red shirt and black athletic shorts) are purchased on campus at the ASD school store.	Uniform requirement DAA maintains a formal, grade-spanning uniform policy. The elementary daily uniform requires KG1–Grade 2 red polo shirts (Grades 3–5 wear blue polo shirts) with blue shorts or slacks for boys and blue skirts or slacks for girls, plus a school tie and white, black or navy socks; non-marking trainers are required and a cap is used for outdoor activities. Seasonal wear includes a blue logo sweatshirt or blue logo sweater, and outerwear may be worn to and from school, but non-uniform items are not allowed on regular days. Middle and high school students wear a regulation shirt or blouse, with an optional unisex polo, and dark blue trousers or skirts (MS girls may wear a dark blue skort or trousers; HS girls may wear a skirt or trousers); PE uniforms are worn on PE days. Uniforms can be purchased from Threads at Time Square Centre (Al Quoz) with a pre-booked fitting appointment; Threads' shop hours are 10am–10pm.
Food options	Food options Through MasterCook as the food services provider, ASD offers pre-plated, pre-ordered healthy hot and cold lunches for elementary students, and a 3-course menu for middle and high school with four meal choices per day, including vegan and vegetarian options. There are additional snacks and beverages from two on-campus cafés and the Falcon's Nest kiosk; the campus is allergen-aware with labeling and a nutrition education framework.	Food options Food service is provided by Slices Catering, with two cafeterias, two kiosks, and a parent cafe in the atrium. KG1–Grade 2 meals are eaten in classrooms with a classroom delivery service, while Grades 3–5 eat in the elementary canteen and Grades 6–12 in the middle/high school canteen; hot meals and a variety of options, including salads and sandwiches, are available. Slices operates a cashless payment system linked to student IDs, with monthly menus published and updated regularly; there is also classroom delivery for younger students and a dedicated contact for the catering team.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership ASD is a not-for-profit independent school governed by a Board of Trustees. The Cultural Foundation operates ASD, having been established by Royal Decree in 2004 as a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to operating the school.	Governance and ownership GEMS Dubai American Academy is GEMS Education's flagship American school, indicating it is part of the GEMS Education group. The school has a dedicated DAA Board that oversees the achievement of strategic aims and objectives and meets at least five times a year. The school is owned and operated within the GEMS Education network.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details ASD offers an American-style, standards-based curriculum from Pre-K through 12, culminating in an American high school diploma; Advanced Placement courses are offered in Grades 10–12, including AP Capstone, while the school does not offer the IB Diploma. The Middle School is aligned with Common Core State Standards and uses Standards-Based Grading, with Pursuits enrichment and Week Without Walls as signature elements. The High School operates on a two-semester block schedule, provides online learning via Global Online Academy, and offers about 25 AP courses including AP Capstone. Graduation requires 25 total credits across core areas (English 4, Math 3, Science 3, Social Studies 3, World Languages 2) plus Physical Education/Health 2, Visual & Performing Arts 2, Information Technology 0.5, Core Electives 3, and Non-Core Electives 2.5, with Arab passport students required to study Arabic Language Arts under UAE law. ASD Pathways includes Grade 9–12 tracks such as the Business & Entrepreneurship Pathway with courses like Thinking & Engineering, Economics, AP Economics, internships, and GOA online options. Arabic is taught across Elementary through High School as part of the World Language Program, alongside the primary instruction in English.	Curriculum details GEMS Dubai American Academy offers an enriched American Curriculum for KG1 through Grade 12, with the option to concurrently pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma in the last two years of high school; graduates earn an American High School Diploma and may also obtain the IB Diploma or an IB Certificate. From Grade 9, the program is aligned to Common Core for ELA/Math and NGSS for Science, with CT state standards guiding other subjects, and students can pursue the IB Diploma or AP courses as part of university preparation. The Elementary School (KG1–Grade 5) provides a standards-based program that includes core academics plus a broad program of arts, physical education, Arabic for native and non-native speakers, Islamic Education for Muslim students, library and instructional technology, supported by a 1:1 iPad program and inclusive education. The Middle School (Grades 6–8) offers core subjects with electives (French and Spanish) and a strong advisory/wellbeing framework; Grade 6 students trial a range of electives before selecting three to study in Grades 7–8. AP is offered in the High School with 19 AP courses across six disciplines plus AP Capstone, and the IB Diploma option remains available in the final years; the school teaches in English with Arabic mandated by MOE and Spanish/French offered from Grade 6.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning ASD supports social and emotional learning through a counseling and support team, including a School Psychologist and Elementary, Middle, and High School Counseling Departments, along with Learning Support Services.	Social & emotional learning SEL is supported via the WISE Center (Wellbeing, Inclusion, Safeguarding & Environment) on the GEMS Dubai American Academy campus, which provides holistic student wellbeing services, alongside the High School Counseling department that offers well-being, academic, career and university counseling.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) ASD provides Learning Support as part of the standard school service for a managed number of students with identified learning needs, offering accommodations, small-group instruction, and an Individual Education Plan, with a School Psychologist and a Speech and Language Therapist on related services; ASD is an inclusive program rather than a separate specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) GEMS Dubai American Academy uses a K-12 Inclusion Delivery Model with a Graduated System of Support for Students of Determination, development of Individual Education Plans, and services including 1:1 interventions, Academic Support Classes, co‑teaching, and in‑class support, with inclusion staff such as SEND/Learning Support teachers and counselors, and it is not described as a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language EAL screening is required for PreK–Grade 12 applicants to determine appropriate support and placement; ongoing EAL program details are not publicly disclosed.	English as an additional language The school provides an English as an Additional Language program for students new to English, which is distinct from inclusion support, and EAL learners receive push‑in and/or pull‑out support.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through counseling services and a focus on emotional intelligence and mental health wellness within ASD's Counseling & Support program.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the WISE Center and the High School Counseling department, with the WISE Center dedicated to Wellbeing, Inclusion, Safeguarding & Environment, and the counseling team delivering wellbeing services.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding ASD has adopted a Child Protection Policy guiding student safety and welfare, with a safeguarding framework aligned with international standards and CIS commitments.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in the campus via the WISE Center and supported by GEMS Education's safeguarding framework, including an independently chaired safeguarding structure, staff vetting, and policy adherence, with UAE laws and KHDA guidance reflected in the Inclusion Policy.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview ASD sits on a 23-acre Al Barsha campus that opened in 2010. The campus houses 100 classrooms and two libraries, along with spaces for the performing and visual arts, including a 630-seat theatre and a black box theatre. It provides five art studios, four purpose-built science and computer labs, maker spaces, and a broadcast studio. Outdoor and athletic facilities include indoor and outdoor running tracks, a climbing wall, a dance studio, regulation soccer fields, additional playing fields and play areas, and a fitness center. The campus features two 25-meter swimming pools, six tennis courts, and two cafeterias to support student life, as well as an organic garden for sustainability and outdoor learning.	Facilities overview GEMS Dubai American Academy sits on 23 acres in Al Barsha and spans about 70,000 square meters of campus facilities. The campus provides full provision for athletics and performing arts, with a 50-meter Olympic pool, a 400-meter running track, a large gymnasium, playing fields, and shaded playgrounds. There are theaters and dedicated studios for music and the arts for all grade levels. The libraries and achievement center support academic work, and the WISE Center supports wellbeing, inclusion, safeguarding and environment. The spaces are designed to be flexible and to foster collaboration, creativity, and wellbeing across both campuses.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities ASD offers extensive athletics facilities on the Al Barsha campus. It includes indoor and outdoor running tracks, a field house, regulation soccer fields, and additional playing fields for a range of sports. The campus has six tennis courts and a fitness center, plus two 25-meter swimming pools for competitive and recreational swimming.	Sports facilities The 70,000-square-meter campus offers purpose-built facilities for athletics and competitive sport. The largest sports hall in the region accommodates three full-size basketball courts. The facilities include a 50-meter Olympic pool, a 400-meter running track, and outdoor spaces such as tennis and basketball courts, a soccer field, shaded playgrounds, roof play areas and three soccer pitches, plus a baseball diamond. Indoor amenities include two gymnasiums, an indoor running track, a fitness suite, and an indoor golf simulator with sports science classrooms for performance analysis. Outdoor and indoor spaces support year-round physical education and competitive sport.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The campus features two libraries and four purpose-built science and computer labs to support academic work. It includes five art studios and a broadcast studio, along with maker spaces for hands-on projects. The campus is wireless with high-speed internet, enabling technology-enhanced learning across grade levels.	Academic facilities Classrooms are fully equipped and arranged in a serpentine layout with shared learning and breakout zones for each grade level. Dedicated Arabic language rooms are located throughout the campuses, alongside a library and achievement center. The WISE Center supports wellbeing, inclusion, safeguarding and the environment. The Center of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, together with ten cross-disciplinary science laboratories and technology suites, underpins STEM learning. Visual arts facilities include 2D and 3D art studios, a ceramics studio with kiln, and a photography darkroom, while performing arts spaces include purpose-built music rooms and rehearsal spaces.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Creative and performance spaces support extracurricular activities. The 630-seat performing arts theatre and the black box theatre provide venues for student productions, while band and choir rooms and five art studios support arts programs. A student broadcast studio and maker spaces support media and design projects. Outdoor spaces include an organic garden and a dance studio, and the field house and other athletic facilities enable a wide range of clubs and activities; two cafeterias support student life.	Extra curricular facilities Internal extracurricular activities cover a wide range of clubs and programs for KG2 through Grade 12, including Leading Leopards, Ball Games, Soccer, Rugby, Cricket, Science Club, Chess Club, Dancing and Movement, Arabic Reading, Sewing, Book-Craft, Math Games, Mindful Art, Robotics, Choir, and Drama; activities vary by term and are available through the ESM portal. External activities are provided through ESM and the Centre for Musical Arts, offering athletics, arts, science, music and language programs plus holiday camps. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered to Grade 9–12 students to develop skills, service, fitness and expeditions. The school participates in MESAC and Junior EAC competitions, with seasonal athletics and activities described for Middle School and High School. Student leadership also features a School Council and a Student Innovation Team to enhance learning opportunities.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History ASD was established in 1966 by the Dubai Petroleum Company to provide schooling for the children of its expatriate staff, organized with support from International Schools Services. It began in Deira as a small program and grew into a PreK–12 international school over time. In 2004 a Dubai government decree placed ASD on its own governance, with an officially appointed Board of Trustees overseeing the not-for-profit institution. In 2009 ASD moved to the Al Barsha campus, and in 2020 the campus opened a PreK program and Early Learning Centre. ASD is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and serves about 2,000 students from 87 nationalities.	History GEMS Dubai American Academy opened in 1998 as a small school with a big vision. It is GEMS Education's flagship American school. The campus sits on 23 acres in Al Barsha and features a modern, purpose-built facility to support its programs. The school has held KHDA Outstanding status since 2011, reflecting its long-standing commitment to academic excellence. Celebrating over 25 years of education, DAA has established a legacy as a leading American-curriculum school in Dubai.
Community	Community ASD serves about 2,000 students from 87 nationalities and maintains an active community of parents, alumni, and friends who volunteer on campus. The school offers hundreds of extracurricular activities across the Arts, Athletics, and Service Learning, including more than 40 student organizations and 53 athletics teams. Community life is enriched by arts performances, sports events, service projects, and global experiential trips that involve students and families. Alumni engagement and parent volunteering are integral to campus life, strengthening ties across generations.	Community DAA's community extends beyond current students and values involvement from parents and alumni. The school reports a diverse student body representing 104 nationalities, reflecting an international community. A culture of kindness guides daily life and supports positive behavior. DAAPA coordinates a wide range of family-facing activities, including guest speakers, welcoming new students, the International Food Festival, Winter Carnival, school dances, movie nights, and cultural celebrations such as Diwali.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association ASD's PTSA stands for the Parent Teacher Student Association and is an automatic, no-fee membership for every ASD parent. The PTSA organizes community-building events for the whole family, including the Fall Harvest Festival, Tree Lighting Event, and Faculty/Staff Appreciation Week. It houses the Falcon Business Network, which connects the ASD community with local businesses for networking and collaboration. CAST (Creative Arts Support Team) provides parent-volunteer support for productions, costumes, tickets, receptions, and master classes. The Booster Club supports Middle and High School athletics, organizing sports awards banquets, team socials, and running the Falcon's Nest concession stand.	Parent teacher association DAA Parent Association (DAAPA) is the formal parent organization for Dubai American Academy; membership begins automatically when you enroll your child. DAAPA's mission is to build unity among parents, faculty, administration, students and staff and to enrich the lives of the students, aligning with the school's aims. DAAPA runs a wide range of activities and projects: guest speakers, welcoming new students, the International Food Festival, school dances, movie nights, and homeroom support. The association stages a Winter Carnival annually and a Gala to celebrate milestones, along with cultural celebrations like Diwali. DAAPA leadership includes an executive committee with positions such as president and vice president, and parent volunteers provide essential support to school life.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual ASD High School provides a challenging college-preparatory program aligned with Common Core State Standards and a standards-based grading system. The minimum graduation credit requirement is 25, with a four-year program offering up to 32 credits; students complete core courses in math, science, social studies, English, and world languages each year. In grades 10–12, students may enroll in Advanced Placement courses, with ASD offering 25 AP courses including the AP Capstone Diploma. AP courses carry a 0.25 weight in GPA, and the AP Capstone Diploma requires four AP courses, a research seminar, and an independent project.	Academic & intellectual The school offers an enriched American curriculum to students of all nationalities. Students graduate with the American High School Diploma. The option to concurrently pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma is available in the last two years of high school, and select Advanced Placement courses are offered. The school has been rated Outstanding by KHDA since 2011.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative ASD supports arts and creative expression through campus life and electives. The High School Course Catalog includes Advanced Dance, Advanced Theatre Production, and opportunities in creative writing and other performing arts offerings.	Arts & creative Arts is a component of Student Life at the school. The program provides arts as part of the after‑school activities alongside Athletics. There are more than 50 after‑school activities per term for KG2 to Grade 8. Elementary and Middle School are Apple Distinguished School (ADS) for 2019–2022.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language World Languages are part of the curriculum, including Arabic Language Arts as a dedicated World Language track. Arabic Language Arts and other World Languages are available within the High School curriculum.	Cultural & language 105 nationalities are represented at the school. Global Citizenship is a focus within Student Life. The curriculum combines American and IB elements to support a diverse, international student body.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Campus Life includes Arts, Athletics, Aquatics, Campus Recreation, and Student Organizations, providing a range of extracurricular activities to support student interests.	Social & hobbies Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered as an External Activity. Internal Activities include Athletics and Arts as part of Student Life. There are more than 50 after‑school activities per term for KG2 to Grade 8.
Community & service	Community & service INSPIRE Global Experiences provide cultural, eco-adventure, or service-learning opportunities; Service Learning is an ASD program that engages students in campus, community, and global sustainability initiatives.	Community & service The DAA community includes parents and alumni, reflecting an extended school network beyond current students. Global Citizenship is emphasized through Student Life experiences. The Duke of Edinburgh Award supports volunteering and service components as part of extracurricular offerings.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Counseling & Support offers personalized student development and college planning; University Rep Visits contribute to college readiness; INSPIRE Global Experiences fosters leadership and professional development opportunities.	Leadership & professional The Leadership Team has over 200 years of combined experience. The DAA Board oversees the school's strategic aims and objectives. The Center of Excellence in AI and Robotics is the first of its kind. Elementary and Middle School hold Apple Distinguished School status for 2019–2022.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing ASD provides Athletics, Aquatics, and Campus Recreation as part of campus life, supporting physical health and wellbeing alongside wellness programming.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Campus enhancements include a dedicated student wellbeing center. A Health Clinic operates on campus. The school promotes wellbeing via a culture of kindness and student support resources.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches English and Arabic as core subjects. Arabic Language Arts classes align with UAE MOE standards for Arabic as a First Language and are mandatory through Grade 12 for Arab passport holders. The World Languages program offers Arabic, French, and Spanish across Middle and High School with courses ranging from Novice High to Advanced levels, and graduation requires 2 credits in one language.	Language provision English is the main language of instruction. Arabic is taught for native and non-native speakers as required by the ministry. Spanish and French are offered from Grade 6 onwards as part of the curriculum. World languages are available as electives and activities.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs The school offers an English Language Learner (ELL) program with a sheltered immersion model to support multilingual learners in developing social and academic English while accessing grade-level content.
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards ASD has received awards and recognitions for sustainability and campus initiatives as part of its broader program and campus developments.	Awards Apple Distinguished School (2019–2022)
Accreditations	Accreditations Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; ASD is an independent not-for-profit school offering a U.S. curriculum from PreK to 12. It enrolls approximately 2,000 students and operates on a 23-acre Al Barsha campus in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with extensive facilities including 100 classrooms, two libraries, a 630-seat performing arts theater, and multiple arts and sports spaces.	Accreditations NEASC, CIS, IBO (as part of the school's program offerings; KHDA Outstanding rating since 2011)
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Applications for the 2026-2027 school year are now open. Begin your online application through the Nexus portal. 2. Submit the required documents for your child's application. All documents not in English must be translated. You can check the status of requirements in the application portal, and documents are marked complete when received. Requirements vary by grade and can include photos, passport copies, school reports, recommendations, an introductory video, and, where applicable, standardized test scores. 3. Admissions timeline: PreK-K2 deadlines: November 10; decisions December 10. Grades 1-12: February 10 deadline; decisions March 6. Status updates are available in the portal, and admissions decisions are based on multiple criteria including reports, transcripts, recommendations, and assessments. 4. Campus visits and virtual meetings: ASD aims to meet applicants in person when possible. Students who complete applications by the deadline are invited for a campus visit in mid-November. For applicants overseas, a virtual meeting can be scheduled. 5. Waitpool: If a grade is full, the applicant is placed in the waitpool (waitlist). Movement from the waitpool is not determined by date of application. 6. Enrollment after seat offer: If admitted and offered a seat, enrollment documents are required to register with the UAE Ministry of Education. Enrollment with MOE is required to finalize admission.	Admissions 1. Applications for the 2026-2027 school year are open. Applications are submitted online via the Apply Online link. An acknowledgement with the next steps is sent after inquiry. The language of instruction is English. 2. GEMS Dubai American Academy serves KG1 through Grade 12. Age requirements apply for placement, and grade placement is determined as part of the admissions process. A transfer certificate is required to complete registration; without it, registration cannot proceed. The admissions team guides families through the process. 3. Prospective students undertake assessment tests before a place is offered. For grades 1–12, MAP evaluates math, reading and language. CAT4 assesses verbal, non-verbal, quantitative and spatial reasoning. If overseas, a CAT4 assessment can be arranged with the current school; recent MAP or CAT4 reports may expedite the process. 4. The admissions decision is based on a holistic review of the application, past school records and entrance assessments. MAP and CAT4 results contribute to the assessment of readiness. The Registration Team guides families through the enrollment steps and communicates outcomes. 5. Enrollment and classroom scheduling are coordinated by the Admissions Team. Tours are available by appointment; Middle School tours start at 9:00 am and Elementary/High School tours at 9:30 am, Tuesday to Thursday. The Admissions Team supports families through the enrollment journey. 6. The Virtual Admissions Center provides a 1-on-1 virtual call with the Admissions Director and a virtual tour. On-campus tours are available by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Gabrielle Keane serves as Admissions Director.
Scholarships	Scholarships ASD offers a Financial Assistance Fund to support families experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19; the fund aims to keep families in the ASD community. Interested families submit an online application and provide supporting documents: income statement, asset and liability statement, tax returns (if applicable), bank statements, and salary/benefits letter. The online application is available June 3; the deadline is July 1; decisions are announced July 10-14; the first tuition installment is due July 15.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist ASD maintains a waitpool for full grade levels. Movement from the waitpool is not determined by application date. The Admissions team processes completed applications and notifies families.	Waitlist —
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