Dubai British School Mira vs Raffles International School

	D Dubai British School Mira Dubai, United Arab Emirates	R Raffles International School Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 51,477 - 58,836	Fees / year AED 34,055 - 86,815
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Day School
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, EYFS (Early years foundation stage)	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 1,340
Typical class size	Typical class size 26	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2025	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Dubai British School Mira is located in Mira Oasis 2, Dubai, in Emaar's Mira community along Al Qudra Road. The campus sits in a family-friendly, newly developed residential area with good road access to surrounding communities such as Arabian Ranches and Town Square. It is a purpose-built DBS campus within Taaleem's Dubai British Schools network.	Location Raffles International School is located in Dubai, in the Umm Suqeim 3 district opposite the Burj Al Arab on Al Baghla Street. The campus sits in a residential, coastal area near the beach with direct road access via Umm Suqeim Road. The area is served by private transport and taxi services, facilitating access from central Dubai.
Stages	Stages DBS Mira opened in August 2025. It initially offers Early Years Foundation Stage 1 to Year 6, with Year 7 onward planned for subsequent phases (Year 7–8 expected to open in 2026; expansion to Year 13 in future phases).	Stages The school runs Nursery through Year 13. The early years follow an EYFS pathway, while the Primary and Secondary curricula align with the English National Curriculum, leading to GCSE/IGCSE options, and the Sixth Form (Years 12–13) offers A-Level or BTEC pathways.
School type	School type The school is co-educational and privately run, delivering the British National Curriculum. It is part of the Taaleem Dubai British Schools group that operates multiple UK-curriculum campuses.	School type The school is co-educational. It operates as a day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix Public reporting indicates DBS Mira has a multinational cohort. The National notes about a quarter of pupils are local Mira residents, with around 70% from other nearby communities, indicating broad international representation. The exact number of nationalities represented is not publicly disclosed.	Pupil nationality mix RIS represents students from more than 80 nationalities. The most common nationalities and the local-to-international pupil ratio are not publicly disclosed.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support SEN provision is mainstream with dedicated SEN support as part of the escuela's inclusion framework. The Good Schools Guide characterises DBS Mira as offering mainstream education with SEN support.	Additional learning support RIS provides English as a Second Language support and is described as fully inclusive, with provisions to accommodate different learning needs and styles.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation; the school follows the British National Curriculum (UK system) and is marketed as part of the Dubai British Schools network.	Country affiliation The curriculum follows the English National Curriculum and UAE MOE Arabic and Islamic Education; RIS is accredited by UK bodies including the British Schools Overseas (BSO) and British Schools in the Middle East (BSME).
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational; the school is not affiliated with a particular religion.	Religious affiliation There is no explicit religious affiliation. UAE Arabic and Islamic Education are included as part of the UAE curriculum requirements, not as a school denomination.
School day structure	School day structure Public guidance on daily hours for DBS Mira is not published publicly; Ramadan-adjusted timings are used across British-curriculum schools in Dubai (e.g., FS start around 8:30am with early release during Ramadan; primary around 1:15pm and later) and exact times are shared with families during admissions and onboarding.	School day structure School timings are 7:30 am to 3:00 pm from Monday to Thursday, and 7:30 am to 12:00 pm on Fridays.
Bus service details	Bus service details A school bus service is available, with routes and the provider coordinated through the admissions process. Specific routes and pricing are not published publicly; families should contact the admissions team to register interest and obtain details.	Bus service details A bus service is provided by Arab Falcon Bus Rental LLC. Buses are equipped with seat belts, and safety procedures are followed for the collection and delivery of students to and from RIS.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details 2025–26 tuition fees (per term and annual) - FS1 – FS2: Term 1 AED 20,591; Term 2 AED 15,443; Term 3 AED 15,443; Annual total AED 51,477. - Year 1 – Year 2: Term 1 AED 20,591; Term 2 AED 15,443; Term 3 AED 15,443; Annual total AED 51,477. - Year 3 – Year 6: Term 1 AED 23,534; Term 2 AED 17,651; Term 3 AED 17,651; Annual total AED 58,836. - Year 7 – Year 8 (to be introduced in future years): Term 1 AED 27,949; Term 2 AED 20,962; Term 3 AED 20,962; Annual total AED 69,872. - Year 9 – Year 11 (to be introduced in future years): Term 1 AED 27,949; Term 2 AED 20,962; Term 3 AED 20,962; Annual total AED 69,872. - Year 12 – Year 13 (to be introduced in future years): Term 1 AED 30,887; Term 2 AED 23,165; Term 3 AED 23,165; Annual total AED 77,217. Application, registration and deposits - Application fee (one-time, new students only): AED 525 (non-refundable, non-transferable; includes 5% VAT). - Registration fee (new students only): AED 4,000. This registration payment secures the offered place and is credited against the joining term tuition; the registration payment is non-refundable when charged to reserve the seat. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed in three termly instalments (Term 1, Term 2, Term 3). A student may not start the academic year unless the first term fee has been paid in full. Payments are accepted in the forms listed below. - Published payment dates from recent communications (illustrative of the school's term-calendar pattern): Term 1 due 1 August; Term 2 due 1 December; Term 3 due 1 March. (These dates appeared alongside the school's tuition schedule in the published fee information.) KHDA and statutory charges - KHDA administration/service charges are collected where applicable. Typical amounts published include AED 120 for routine KHDA documents and services, and AED 520 for certain late transfer requests; other KHDA tariffs (for continuation certificates, leaving forms, attestations, exam grade amendments and similar services) are charged at the amounts listed by the authority. These KHDA charges are payable to the school where the school collects them on behalf of the regulator. Other costs and optional charges - External examination fees in Secondary: additional charges may apply for external examinations and will be notified in advance. - Book fees: book charges are covered in fee arrangements in some cases; the school's published conditions note that book fees are refundable if a student leaves prior to the start of the academic year. - Uniform, transport, school meals, extracurricular activities and some enrichment items are commonly charged separately from KHDA-approved tuition in Dubai schools and are normally additional to the tuition figures above; parents should budget for these items as separate costs. (These types of charges are standard exclusions from KHDA-approved tuition in Dubai schools.) Refund information and contractual conditions - Refunds are applied on a term-by-term basis according to the date of the official written withdrawal request; refunds are calculated from the start of the term to the date of the parent's official request, not from the date of absence. Registration or re-registration deposits may be refundable only in the specific circumstance set out by the regulator (for example, where a school's KHDA quality rating changes) and book fees are refundable if a student leaves prior to the start of the academic year. The school reserves the right to withhold reports, final results and transfer documentation until all fees are settled. Fee payment options and practical notes - Accepted methods for tuition payments as published: cash, credit card or cheque made payable to "Dubai British School Mira." Personal cheques for Term 1 are not accepted if presented within five working days of the start of the academic year. Specific bank transfer or corporate-payment arrangements (if available) are handled by the school accounts office.	Fee details Application & assessment fees - Assessment test fee: AED 525 (including 5% VAT; non-refundable and payable at the time of assessment). - Registration fee for new students: 10% of the applicable annual tuition (non-refundable but adjustable against Term 1 fee once admission is confirmed). Specific registration amounts are shown with the new-student fee schedule below. - Re‑registration fee for returning students: 5% of the annual tuition (non-refundable but adjustable against Term 1 fee). Specific re‑registration amounts are shown with the existing‑student fee schedule below. Tuition fees — existing students (2025–2026 academic year, amounts in AED) - FS1 (age 3): Annual fee AED 34,055; Term 1 balance AED 13,621; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217; Re‑registration fee: not applicable for FS1. - FS2 (age 4–5): Annual fee AED 34,055; Re‑registration fee AED 1,705; Term 1 balance AED 11,916; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217. - Year 1 (age 5–6): Annual fee AED 42,092; Re‑registration fee AED 2,105; Term 1 balance AED 14,731; Term 2 AED 12,628; Term 3 AED 12,628. - Year 2 (age 6–7): Annual fee AED 54,080; Re‑registration fee AED 2,705; Term 1 balance AED 18,927; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 3 (age 7–8): Annual fee AED 54,080; Re‑registration fee AED 2,705; Term 1 balance AED 18,927; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 4 (age 8–9): Annual fee AED 54,488; Re‑registration fee AED 2,725; Term 1 balance AED 19,071; Term 2 AED 16,346; Term 3 AED 16,346. - Year 5 (age 9–10): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881 (KHDA approved shown higher); Re‑registration fee AED 3,195; Term 1 balance AED 22,358; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 6 (age 10–11): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881; Re‑registration fee AED 3,195; Term 1 balance AED 22,358; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 7 (age 11–12): Applicable annual fee AED 64,950; Re‑registration fee AED 3,250; Term 1 balance AED 22,730; Term 2 AED 19,485; Term 3 AED 19,485. - Year 8 (age 12–13): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Re‑registration fee AED 3,615; Term 1 balance AED 25,292; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 9 (age 13–14): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Re‑registration fee AED 3,615; Term 1 balance AED 25,292; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 10 (age 14–15): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Re‑registration fee AED 3,615; Term 1 balance AED 25,292; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 11 (age 15–16): Applicable annual fee AED 76,619; Re‑registration fee AED 3,830; Term 1 balance AED 26,817; Term 2 AED 22,986; Term 3 AED 22,986. - Year 12 (age 16–17): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Re‑registration fee AED 4,340; Term 1 balance AED 30,385; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. - Year 13 (age 17–18): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Re‑registration fee AED 4,340; Term 1 balance AED 30,385; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. Tuition fees — new students (2025–2026 academic year, amounts in AED) - FS1 (age 3): Annual fee AED 34,055; Registration fee AED 3,405; Term 1 balance AED 10,216; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217. - FS2 (age 4–5): Annual fee AED 34,055; Registration fee AED 3,405; Term 1 balance AED 10,216; Term 2 AED 10,217; Term 3 AED 10,217. - Year 1 (age 5–6): Annual fee AED 42,092; Registration fee AED 4,210; Term 1 balance AED 12,626; Term 2 AED 12,628; Term 3 AED 12,628. - Year 2 (age 6–7): Annual fee AED 54,080; Registration fee AED 5,410; Term 1 balance AED 16,222; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 3 (age 7–8): Annual fee AED 54,080; Registration fee AED 5,410; Term 1 balance AED 16,222; Term 2 AED 16,224; Term 3 AED 16,224. - Year 4 (age 8–9): Annual fee AED 54,488; Registration fee AED 5,450; Term 1 balance AED 16,346; Term 2 AED 16,346; Term 3 AED 16,346. - Year 5 (age 9–10): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881; Registration fee AED 6,390; Term 1 balance AED 19,163; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 6 (age 10–11): Applicable annual fee AED 63,881; Registration fee AED 6,390; Term 1 balance AED 19,163; Term 2 AED 19,164; Term 3 AED 19,164. - Year 7 (age 11–12): Applicable annual fee AED 64,950; Registration fee AED 6,495; Term 1 balance AED 19,485; Term 2 AED 19,485; Term 3 AED 19,485. - Year 8 (age 12–13): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Registration fee AED 7,225; Term 1 balance AED 21,682; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 9 (age 13–14): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Registration fee AED 7,225; Term 1 balance AED 21,682; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 10 (age 14–15): Applicable annual fee AED 72,269; Registration fee AED 7,225; Term 1 balance AED 21,682; Term 2 AED 21,681; Term 3 AED 21,681. - Year 11 (age 15–16): Applicable annual fee AED 76,619; Registration fee AED 7,660; Term 1 balance AED 22,987; Term 2 AED 22,986; Term 3 AED 22,986. - Year 12 (age 16–17): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Registration fee AED 8,680; Term 1 balance AED 26,045; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. - Year 13 (age 17–18): Applicable annual fee AED 86,815; Registration fee AED 8,680; Term 1 balance AED 26,045; Term 2 AED 26,045; Term 3 AED 26,045. Billing schedule and payment terms - The academic year is divided into three Terms: Term 1 (September–December), Term 2 (January–March) and Term 3 (April–June). Payment due dates for the 2025–2026 fee schedules are shown on the schedules and include: Re‑registration date and Term payment dates (examples shown for 2025–2026: re‑registration payable 4 April 2025; Term 1 payable 22 August 2025; Term 2 payable 5 January 2026; Term 3 payable 27 March 2026). - Payment may be made in full or by term. Parents may provide two dated cheques (one per term) or pay by bank transfer, cash or credit card; bank transfers must include student details and remittance evidence should be sent to accounts@rafflesis.com to enable timely reconciliation. Dishonoured cheques incur an administration fee of AED 200 and the school may suspend attendance for unpaid fees. - For mid‑year admissions the school calculates fees pro rata: attending less than two weeks = one month's fee payable; more than two weeks but less than one month = two months' fee payable; attending more than one month in a term = full term fee payable. One month's fee is calculated as annual fee divided by ten. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed as an offering or fee at Raffles International School (Umm Suqeim). No boarding fees appear in the published fee schedules for RIS; fees shown are for day‑school tuition and associated services. Other costs and commonly payable extras - Stationery and educational materials. - School uniform, team kits and sporting attire. - External examination fees (IGCSE/A‑level/BTEC exam entry). - Meals/cafeteria charges. - Transportation (school bus) charges. - Educational visits, voluntary excursions or tournament participation (charged case by case). - Replacement student ID cards and incidental sundries. - Textbooks for secondary pupils may be purchased from the school at cost price; parents may also buy externally but students must own all specified books. - Insurance: parents are advised to maintain health, accident and liability insurance for their children; insurance costs are not included in tuition. Refund information (key points) - Registration and re‑registration fees are non‑refundable; these fees may be adjusted against Term 1 fees when admission is confirmed but cannot be carried forward or used for a sibling. - If a family withdraws a student who has already presented term cheques for the new academic year, written notice must be received by the Admissions Office no later than the first day of the Term to permit refund calculations. Refunds for students who leave during a term are calculated pro rata by the school's published refund policy: less than two weeks' attendance = one month's fee payable and remainder refunded; more than two weeks but less than one month = two months' fee payable and remainder refunded; more than one month = full term fee payable. Refunds are calculated from the start of the term to the formal withdrawal request date, and 30 days' written notice is required to prepare documentation and refunds. Registration/re‑registration fee, educational materials fee, uniform and sundry items listed in Schedule C are not refundable. Fee payment options and banking details (as published) - Zenda online payment / Zenda app (school payment portal). - Bank transfer to the school (published account): Account Name: Raffles International School LLC; Account No. 019000004615; IBAN AE720330000019000004615; Swift/BIC BOMLAEADXXX; Bank: Mashreq Bank, Branch: DIC, Dubai, UAE. Parents are requested to include the child's ID, name and school name on transfer and to send remittance advice to accounts@rafflesis.com. - Cheque payable to Raffles International School LLC (cheques accepted in person; post‑dated cheques accepted for Term 2 & Term 3). - Credit card payments at school premises. - Cash payments (receipt to be collected). Discounts - Sibling discounts are published: 5% for the second and third child; 10% for the fourth child; 15% for the fifth child; 20% for the sixth child onwards.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniform is required for all pupils. The KHDA fact sheets show a uniform cost range of AED 500 to 2,000; color and official supplier are not listed on the site.	Uniform requirement RIS uniform is supplied by Zaks Uniforms, with branches in Al Barsha, Motor City and Jumeirah Beach Centre and an online store at zaksstore.com. It is recommended to have at least two complete sets, including the regular school uniform and the RIS PE kit before attending; RIS ties and scarves are optional for Secondary, and PARIS (the parent association) operates a pre-loved uniform service.
Food options	Food options A canteen operates on site. KHDA factsheets record 'Canteen' as an optional service with a cost range of AED 0 to 1,500; menu details and dietary options are not listed.	Food options RIS uses Kalo Hospitality to run its cafeterias. Daily offerings include a live egg station for breakfast, smoothie counters, freshly baked bakery items, salads and sandwiches, and a hot lunch with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Primary students can order pre-packaged meal boxes delivered to classrooms; meals and menus are accessible via the Kalo mobile app, which supports viewing menus, topping up funds, and pre-ordering meals.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Dubai British School Mira is part of the Dubai British Schools group, which is operated by Taaleem. All Taaleem schools are governed by the Taaleem Executive Board and the individual school principals; there is an Advisory Board for Dubai British School comprising parents, staff and Taaleem executives.	Governance and ownership RIS is governed by a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council; the Board includes the owners and an independent member. RIS is a proud member of the Innoventures Education family.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The Dubai British School Mira follows the National Curriculum for England (the British Curriculum) with English as the language of instruction. Foundation Stage includes Early Years Foundation Stage 1 and 2 and Year 1, using a play-based approach that bridges EYFS to the National Curriculum for England and provides targeted Year 1 progression. In Primary Stage, the curriculum follows the National Curriculum for England and emphasizes hands-on learning, collaboration, and wellbeing, developing both academic and social-emotional skills. For 2025/26, KHDA placement allocates FS1, FS2 and Year 1 by age, with Years 2–6 placed via Transfer Certificate; Year Group Enrollment shows FS1–Year 6 availability and some higher-year waits, and the 2025-26 Fees table lists Year 7–13 with a note that these year groups will be added in future academic years. The Dubai British Schools Group has a track record of GCSE and A-Level results across campuses, signaling progression to post-16 study.	Curriculum details Raffles International School Dubai follows the National Curriculum for England across all year groups, with Early Years (Nursery, FS1 and FS2) taught under the UK EYFS framework. The Primary years (Years 1–6) use the England NC, supplemented by the UAE Ministry of Education for Arabic and Islamic Education; from Year 3 Mandarin or French are available, Arabic is mandatory from Foundation, and EAL support starts from Year 1. In Secondary (Years 7–11), students continue the England NC at KS3 leading to GCSE/IGCSE options, with English, Mathematics and Science compulsory and Arabic required for Arab students; a wide range of electives is offered, including Art & Design, Business Studies, Computer Science, Economics, French, ICT, Mandarin, Music, PE, Spanish and various BTEC Level 2 subjects. Sixth Form (Years 12–13) provides 3–4 A Levels or a single BTEC Level 3 option, both over two years, with the possibility to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). The GCSE/IGCSE approach emphasises learner-centred, enquiry-based learning to prepare students for higher education and international opportunities.
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 Dubai British School Mira defines wellbeing as underpinning all learning, aligning with the OECD definition of wellbeing as the psychological, cognitive, social and physical functioning students need to live a happy and fulfilling life. The school commits to educating children to understand their physical and emotional health, to build secure relationships, and to develop skills to regulate emotions and build resilience, with safeguarding at all times. A Graduated Response is used by the Inclusion Team to identify need and tailor support, with needs assessed, plans created, actions implemented, and progress reviewed, all tracked termly. The Inclusion Team provides social-emotional support through targeted sessions and group work to develop social understanding and relationships. The wellbeing framework includes parental engagement via community workshops and a focus on staff wellbeing and professional development to sustain a holistic SEL ecosystem.	Social & emotional learning RIS places student wellbeing at the core of its approach and aims to promote positive wellbeing and a voice for students. The school references Dr Martin Seligman's positive psychology framework and the PERMA model—Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishments. It emphasizes the social, emotional, spiritual, moral and cultural development and mental and physical wellbeing as central to students' attitudes to learning. The curriculum includes Personal, Social and Emotional Development as a key development area in Primary School. The overall approach supports helping students cope with setbacks, grow, build resilience and flourish, with an emphasis on giving students a voice.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Dubai British School Mira uses a Graduated Response model to identify needs and tailor support, with the Inclusion Team reviewing and adapting approaches and setting personalised goals; progress is tracked termly. Provision for Students of Determination includes Quality First Teaching, Targeted Support (in-class or pull-out), and Specialist Support delivered by external experts such as Speech and Language Therapy or Occupational Therapy. The Inclusion Team is led by a Head of Inclusion and collaborates with parents and external agencies to ensure the best provision for each child. The school operates under the Dubai Inclusion Framework, Directives & Guidelines for Inclusive Education, and related laws such as Law No. 2 of 2014 and Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, to guide inclusive practice. EAL/ELL is integrated into SEN provision, with linguistically focused support to accelerate language acquisition and access to the curriculum.	Special educational needs (SEN) RIS provides support through the RISE team, offering in-class support and small-group withdrawal in RISE hubs to meet students' needs. RIS welcomes students of determination and does not refuse admission solely based on SEND. KHDA Inclusive Education Framework 2017 is referenced as a guiding standard for inclusion. The site does not publish a detailed list of specific SEN categories it can support. RIS is not described as a specialist SEN institution in the publicly available information.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English Language Learner (ELL) and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided by the Inclusion Team to assist language development (reading, writing, speaking and listening). Support may be in-class or through targeted intervention programmes to accelerate language acquisition and enable access to the curriculum. Admissions accommodations can be applied to assess children with needs, including language considerations, during the evaluation process. The Inclusion Team's linguistically focused work is an integral part of the school's inclusive approach to allow all students to access the curriculum independently. Linguistically related provision is explicitly listed as a core area of support within Inclusion.	English as an additional language RIS welcomes English as an Additional Language (EAL) students, including those with little or no English, and provides support after entry. English is the medium of instruction; Arabic is mandatory for all students up to Year 12; EAL support is offered from Year 1. Starting in Year 3, students choose between French, Spanish or Mandarin as an additional language, with EAL providing language development. EAL applications for GCSE/IGCSE and A Level are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. EAL support is integrated from Year 1 to assist learners developing English language proficiency.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing provision is central to DBS Mira, with wellbeing defined in line with OECD as the psychological, cognitive, social and physical functioning students need to live a happy and fulfilling life. The school commits to educating children about physical and emotional health, helping them regulate their emotions and build resilience, and safeguarding them throughout their time at school. The Wellbeing of Parents is supported through a range of Community Workshops and transparent communication about student progress. The Wellbeing of Staff includes mental health and wellbeing support, with systems to promote staff wellbeing and opportunities for professional growth. Overall, the school treats wellbeing as a cross-cutting priority for students, families, and staff.	Mental wellbeing Wellbeing is a core part of RIS's student experience, with the belief that a happy, safe, welcoming student is more likely to flourish. The school draws on positive psychology and the PERMA framework to promote Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishments. RIS emphasises mental and physical wellbeing and aims to equip students with tools to handle setbacks, build resilience and grow. The curriculum recognises Personal, Social and Emotional Development as a learning framework. Regular collaboration among staff and students supports a voice-heard environment and wellbeing across the school.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding is a core commitment, with explicit wording that the school will safeguard children for every moment they are in care. The Inclusion Team emphasises collaboration with parents and external agencies to ensure safeguarding and appropriate support for each child. Specialist external services (e.g., Speech and Language Therapy; Occupational Therapy) may be engaged to provide safeguarding- or development-related support beyond the school's standard provision. The Inclusion Policies include the Dubai Inclusion Framework, Dubai Inclusion Policy, Directives & Guidelines for Inclusive Education, and related laws (Law No. 2 of 2014 and Federal Law No. 29 of 2006) to guide safeguarding and inclusive practice, with some documents available in English and Arabic. The school also provides an Inclusion Policy for Students of Determination (noted as To Be Available Soon), reflecting ongoing development in safeguarding and inclusive practices.	Safeguarding RIS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The staff profiles indicate safeguarding leadership roles, including a designated safeguarding lead and a wellbeing lead in the secondary section. Recruitment materials confirm safeguarding and child protection screening as part of hiring processes. KHDA inclusion practices are referenced in relation to safeguarding and inclusion. The school states a commitment to safeguarding within its recruitment and policies.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus features state-of-the-art facilities designed to support student growth. It includes modern indoor and outdoor sports areas such as swimming pools, football pitches, and a sports hall. There are dedicated spaces such as libraries, innovative learning hubs, and a well-equipped auditorium. The on-site canteen provides healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. The FS Breakout Area and outdoor play areas support different ages and learning styles.	Facilities overview The campus is a purpose-built facility occupying almost 315,000 square feet in Umm Suqeim, Dubai, close to the beach and opposite Burj Al Arab. At the heart of the school are three large bright atriums with classrooms opening onto shared spaces to encourage collaboration. The facilities include extensive sporting venues such as competition and training swimming pools, a large sports hall, cricket nets, a multi-use games area, a large playing field and astroturf spaces for outdoor activities. A dedicated music suite, IT facilities and drama spaces support arts and technology across the curriculum. The school also provides specialist learning spaces, a library, a cafeteria and a medical clinic to support student well-being and inquiry.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Facilities include a field, indoor swimming pool, and a sports hall serving both primary and secondary students. There are outdoor play areas and an outdoor football pitch, plus a roof tennis and netball court. The campus also features a primary library, a Black Box Theatre, and a fitness gym to support physical education and performance activities.	Sports facilities RIS offers extensive on-site sports facilities, including competition and training swimming pools, a large sports hall, cricket nets, a multi-use games area, a large playing field and astroturf open spaces around the campus. These spaces support PE lessons and a broad co-curricular sports programme. The school coaches more than 40 sports teams, with offerings in football, touch rugby, athletics and volleyball. The mix of indoor and outdoor facilities enables year-round practice and competitions.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The campus houses a primary library and a Black Box Theatre to support reading, drama, and creative projects. An auditorium and innovative learning hubs are available to support learning across key stages. A secondary library is listed as Coming Soon, with additional breakout spaces for Foundation Stage. The site supports learning with dedicated spaces that encourage collaboration, inquiry, and digital literacy.	Academic facilities STEM labs are available in both primary and secondary sections, alongside dedicated science labs and computer labs. There is a school library for learning and research, and a cafeteria as well as a fully equipped medical clinic on site. A dedicated music suite, IT facilities and drama spaces support arts and technology across the curriculum, complemented by a broad range of specialist learning spaces. These facilities collectively support inquiry, collaboration and project-based learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Curriculum Enrichment offers extra-curricular activities from FS2 upwards. FS2 and Year 1 participate in one ECA per week, while Year 2 to Year 6 can join two ECAs per week; preferences are collected from families. Examples include Active clubs such as Pool Games and Super Strokes Swim Squad; Creative clubs like Art Masterclass and World Art Dubai; and Academic clubs such as Storytime Book Club and Chevron Readers. After School Activities are offered by external providers, and an ECA Showcase is held at the end of each term.	Extra curricular facilities RIS provides a comprehensive co-curricular activities programme with a wide range of sporting, academic and artistic clubs active on a daily basis. The school also maintains an extensive inter-school sports programme with particular strengths in football, volleyball and swimming.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Dubai British School Mira (DBS Mira) is Taaleem's fifth Dubai British School. It is Taaleem's second greenfield DBS project, announced in 2023 as part of a five-year growth strategy. The school is located in Emaar's Mira community and is designed to serve more than 1,600 students at full utilisation. It opened in August 2025 with an initial cohort of FS1 to Year 6, around 700 students. There are plans to expand to Year 13 in the future.	History Raffles International School in Dubai operates as part of the Innoventures Education group of schools and nurseries. In 2010, Innoventures Education took on the management of RIS, expanding the Secondary program to include a Sixth Form with A Level and BTEC pathways, along with Duke of Edinburgh awards and opportunities for local and international work experience. The school has learners from 86 different countries worldwide, speaking more than 30 languages, and English is the language of instruction with a strong Arabic program and additional Modern Foreign Language options. The governance structure includes a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council; the Board comprises founders Avishesha Bhojani, Abdulla Majed Al Ghurair, and Dr. Anwar Gargash, reflecting ownership and strategic oversight. RIS Dubai maintains strong links with the Emirati community and is part of the Innoventures Education network.
Community	Community The school aims to foster a warm, inclusive community for students and families. On opening, about a quarter of students were from the Mira community, with roughly 70% from other nearby communities. Taaleem emphasises a sense of community and sustainability across DBS campuses. The DBS Mira program includes partnerships with external providers, such as the Centre for Musical Arts, to deliver music and performance programs on campus.	Community RIS Dubai hosts a diverse community with learners from 86 countries and more than 30 languages. The school emphasizes wellbeing and holistic development, supported by a broad co-curricular program with clubs, arts, and sports that operate throughout the year. Students participate in inter-school competitions and represent the school in local and international events. The school also maintains an alumni network and an engaged parent community that contributes to school life.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Across the Dubai British Schools network, parent engagement is framed as part of the school community, though a DBS Mira-specific PTA charter or committee is not publicly enumerated. Taaleem's initiatives show a culture of family involvement through programs such as Emirates Litfest Poetry Award, Rhodes Programme, and ChoirFest Middle East, which involve students, families, and the wider community. There are active partnerships with community and cultural programs that illustrate a framework that PTA-like bodies typically support. The opening of DBS Mira attracted strong parental interest, with families from Mira and nearby communities enrolling in the first year. As the campus matures, a formal PTA or equivalent structure may be established to coordinate fundraising, volunteering, and family events.	Parent teacher association PaRIS, the Parent Association of Raffles International School, plays an active role in supporting students and staff in enrichment activities throughout the year. PaRIS sponsors activities including International Day, Spring Market, New Parent Coffee Morning, graduation ceremonies, and a Teacher Appreciation Day. The PaRIS executive committee meets with the Principal weekly to share parent perspectives and plan school improvement. PaRIS members support parent volunteers and initiatives across the school, including Primary class parents and Secondary school parent representatives. All RIS parents are invited to join PaRIS and contribute in any way they can.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school follows the National Curriculum for England. Foundation Stage uses the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. Primary education follows the National Curriculum for England with emphasis on teaching skills and concepts to challenge learners.	Academic & intellectual RIS follows the National Curriculum for England and Wales and offers GCSE/IGCSE options in Years 10–11. In Years 12–13, students may pursue the A-level pathway or a BTEC course. The Sixth Form also includes Duke of Edinburgh awards and opportunities for local and international work experience. English is the language of instruction, with language support; Arabic, French, Mandarin and Spanish are taught as MFL options from Year 3, alongside mother tongue programmes for native language speakers.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The campus includes a Black Box Theatre. Library facilities, including a primary library, support reading and creativity.	Arts & creative RIS provides a dedicated music suite, drama spaces and art rooms with supporting IT facilities. The co-curricular programme includes a wide range of artistic clubs and daily activities. Many RIS students represent the school in local, national and international competitions.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language An additional language is taught from Year 1. Arabic & Islamic programs are led by the Director of Arabic & Islamic.	Cultural & language English is the language of instruction with a strong Arabic programme and MFL options in French, Mandarin and Spanish from Year 3. Mother tongue programmes are offered in Hindi, Russian, French and Spanish for native speakers. The school draws learners from many countries, totaling over 30 languages taught.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The L.I.F.E curriculum equips students with real-world skills beyond the classroom. Enrichment opportunities and events are provided to engage the school community.	Social & hobbies RIS provides a comprehensive co-curricular programme with sporting, academic and artistic clubs active on a daily basis. The school runs more than 40 sports teams, with facilities including a large sports hall, swimming pools and outdoor spaces.
Community & service	Community & service Inclusion and wellbeing are prioritized; the leadership commits to social contribution and sustainability, and the school aims to be a hub of the community.	Community & service Duke of Edinburgh awards are offered, with opportunities for local and international work experience to support broader personal development.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Amy Falhi is the Founding Principal. George Stokes is Head of Primary. Megan Pankhurst is Deputy Head of Primary. Dana Irbaye is Admissions Manager. Nikki Holman is Head of Admissions, UK Curriculum Schools.	Leadership & professional Duke of Edinburgh awards provide leadership development opportunities for students.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Dubai British School Mira is located in the Mira community in Dubai. Wellbeing is prioritized through actions and decisions, with inclusion and diversity consistently fostered. Campus facilities include indoor and outdoor sports areas, a swimming pool, football pitches, and sports halls, plus libraries, learning hubs, and an auditorium to support wellbeing and creativity.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is central to RIS, with a wellbeing-focused environment and a pastoral care team supporting students socially, emotionally and academically. There is a fully equipped medical clinic on campus; staff and leadership prioritize student wellbeing and health.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision An additional language is taught from Year 1.	Language provision English is the medium of instruction; EAL support is provided for learners developing English proficiency. Arabic is mandatory for Arab students (Arabic A); Arabic B is provided for non-Arabs. From Year 3, Mandarin or French or Spanish are options as additional languages, continuing through Year 9 when GCSE/IGCSE language choices are determined. Mother Tongue languages offered include French, Spanish, Russian, Hindi and German; the Mother Tongue Programme provides two to three hours per week of language instruction, scheduled within the timetable or after school, and is delivered by native-speaking teachers. German Mother Tongue includes preparation for exams such as DSH or Goethe.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching English is the school's medium of instruction. Arabic is mandatory for all students up to Year 12. Arabic A is for Arab students; Arabic B is provided for non-Arabs, with beginner, intermediate and advanced groups at every year level. From Year 3, students choose between French, Spanish or Mandarin as an additional language.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs Mother Tongue Programmes are offered in French, Spanish, Russian, Hindi and German, taught by native speakers and scheduled during the school day or after school. The programme provides two to three hours per week of language instruction for native-speaking children to maintain their home language, with groups taught in year levels and new groups joining as needed. German Mother Tongue is available with small groups of up to eight participants and includes language development and exam preparation (e.g., DSH or Goethe).
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1 – Submit the online application via the Admissions Portal. Check Admissions Availability to confirm the year group you are applying for is open before you start. Ensure you include all required documentation with the application. (Apply online; see the Admissions Availability page for year group status.) Step 2 – Pay the application fee. The one-time application fee is AED 525 and is non-refundable and non-transferable. Payment can be made by bank transfer using the provided bank details. After payment, the Admissions Team will be in touch to arrange the next steps. (Fee details and payment method are specified in How to Apply.) Step 3 – Book an assessment with the Admissions Team. Once the application fee is received, you will be contacted to book an assessment. Assessments vary by year group: FS1 & FS2 use a Stay and Play format; Year 1 & Year 2 use a 1-1 assessment; Years 3–12 use CAT4 plus a written English assessment. Additional assessments may be requested if learning support is needed. Overseas applicants will be contacted with next steps. References to the child's current school are obtained. Step 4 – Academic review and offer. After the assessment, the Academic Team reviews the application. If a place can be offered, you receive an offer letter and an invoice for the registration fee. Accepting the offer requires you to return acceptance paperwork and pay the non-refundable registration fee within five working days; the registration fee will be deducted from joining term fees. If a year group is on waitlist, the child will be added to the waiting pool and offers are not guaranteed. Step 5 – KHDA registration and contract. After placement and payment of relevant term fees, a contract exists between the school and the parents, subject to KHDA guidelines. It is mandatory to obtain a Transfer Certificate (TC) from the child's current school to complete KHDA registration. KHDA requirements include submitting the appropriate certificates or attestations when transferring between emirates or from overseas. The school reserves the right to place the child in the most appropriate class within KHDA guidelines. Step 6 – Additional notes. If you have further questions, the Admissions team can assist; contact details are provided on the admissions pages. (KHDA-related procedures and documentation are described in the KHDA registration section.)	Admissions RIS Dubai admissions intake is primarily in September, but spaces may be available throughout the year depending on capacity. To begin the process, complete the Online Application Form. An assessment/interview for FS1 to Year 13 is conducted 9:00 am to 11:00 am, Monday to Thursday, by appointment only. There is a non-refundable AED 525 assessment fee payable on the day of the assessment. After the assessment, a senior academic team member reviews the results and prior school reports; a formal offer letter is issued within 2 working days and is valid for five days from receipt. If no place is available at the time of application, the child is placed on a waiting list and notified when a place becomes available. The Admissions Office is open Monday to Friday from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on site.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships The ACES Scholarship Programme provides merit-based scholarships across three categories: Sports, Academic and Co-curricular, and Emirati Distinction. It is open to students from Year 5 to Year 13 for the next academic year and is awarded as a percentage of KHDA approved annual school fees, up to 20%. The closing date for applications is July 1 each year, and successful applicants are informed at the start of term one of the following academic year. The scholarship may include tailored internships, targeted academic mentorship, personalized performance pathways, and student leadership opportunities.
Waitlist	Waitlist Waiting lists are used for admissions at Dubai British School Mira. Definitions: Closed – waiting lists remain open until capacity is reached and may close; Open – accepting applicants into the waiting list with hopes of admission offers; Open, Waitlist Only – accepting into the waiting list but no current spaces available; places can be offered from the waiting list where available. KHDA regulations place students in age-appropriate year groups for FS1, FS2 and Year 1; Years 2 and above are placed according to their Transfer Certificate. Applicants may be invited for assessment and places offered from the waiting list if spaces become available. Year group availability varies by year; ongoing waitlists are maintained for all year groups. (Admissions Availability and Year Group Enrollment sections provide the detailed status and mappings.)	Waitlist If there are no places available, the student is placed on a waiting list and notified when a place becomes available.
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