Dubai British School Mira vs Raffles World Academy

	D Dubai British School Mira Dubai, United Arab Emirates	R Raffles World Academy Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 51,477 - 58,836	Fees / year AED 33,544 - 87,990
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, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 700	Pupils 1,900
Typical class size	Typical class size 26	Typical class size 13
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2025	Opened 2008
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 World Academy is located in Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, on Al Marcup Street (formerly Street 7). The 30,000-square-metre campus sits in the Umm Suqeim area and houses modern learning facilities. It lies in the Jumeirah/Umm Suqeim corridor and is accessible from Umm Suqeim Road, with nearby residential communities. Private transport options and taxis commonly service the area.
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 Raffles World Academy is an independent IB World School offering KG to G12 (pre-school through Year 13). The IB continuum runs from the Primary Years Programme (PYP) up to Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6–10, and the Diploma Programme (DP) plus Career-related Programme (CP) for Grades 11–12.
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 RWA is an independent, co-educational school. It operates as a day school with an IB World School continuum.
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 The school has over 1,900 students representing more than 100 nationalities. The most represented nationalities and the local-to-international ratio are not published by the school.
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 RWA has a dedicated Learning Support team that can meet the needs of students with mild to moderate learning difficulties and those who are gifted and talented.
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 There is no formal country affiliation listed for Raffles World Academy.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational; the school is not affiliated with a particular religion.	Religious affiliation There is no official religious affiliation stated; the campus provides prayer rooms to accommodate spiritual practices if needed.
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 Monday to Thursday from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, and Friday from 7:30 am to 1:00 pm. The school is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
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 Raffles World Academy contracts Arab Falcon Bus Rental LLC for transport. Seats are allocated on existing buses and depend on route availability; requests are managed by the school Transport Office.
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 Fees summary — Academic year 2025–2026 Application / Admission and re-registration fees - New students: Assessment Test Fee AED 525 (including 5% VAT), non-refundable. Registration Fee is 10% of the annual tuition (non-refundable but adjustable against Term 1 fee once admission is confirmed). - Returning (existing) students: Re-registration fee is 5% of the applicable annual tuition (non-refundable but adjustable against Term 1 fee). Re-enrolment fees are up to 5% of tuition or AED 500 (whichever is higher). Tuition fees — Schedule A (Existing students) — full detail per year group and term (amounts in AED) - Pre KG (age 3–4): Applicable annual fee AED 33,544 — Re-registration Fee: - — Term 1 (balance) AED 13,418 — Term 2 AED 10,063 — Term 3 AED 10,063. - KG1 (age 4–5): Applicable annual fee AED 33,544 — Re-registration Fee AED 1,675 — Term 1 (balance) AED 11,743 — Term 2 AED 10,063 — Term 3 AED 10,063. - KG2 (age 5–6): Applicable annual fee AED 40,253 — Re-registration Fee AED 2,015 — Term 1 (balance) AED 14,086 — Term 2 AED 12,076 — Term 3 AED 12,076. - Grade 1 (age 6–7): Applicable annual fee AED 53,270 — Re-registration Fee AED 2,665 — Term 1 (balance) AED 18,643 — Term 2 AED 15,981 — Term 3 AED 15,981. - Grade 2 (age 7–8): Applicable annual fee AED 53,270 — Re-registration Fee AED 2,665 — Term 1 (balance) AED 18,643 — Term 2 AED 15,981 — Term 3 AED 15,981. - Grade 3 (age 8–9): Applicable annual fee AED 53,671 — Re-registration Fee AED 2,685 — Term 1 (balance) AED 18,784 — Term 2 AED 16,101 — Term 3 AED 16,101. - Grade 4 (age 9–10): Applicable annual fee AED 64,405 — Re-registration Fee AED 3,220 — Term 1 (balance) AED 22,541 — Term 2 AED 19,322 — Term 3 AED 19,322. - Grade 5 (age 10–11): Applicable annual fee AED 64,405 — Re-registration Fee AED 3,220 — Term 1 (balance) AED 22,541 — Term 2 AED 19,322 — Term 3 AED 19,322. - Grade 6 (age 11–12): Applicable annual fee AED 64,807 — Re-registration Fee AED 3,240 — Term 1 (balance) AED 22,683 — Term 2 AED 19,442 — Term 3 AED 19,442. - Grade 7 (age 12–13): Applicable annual fee AED 72,188 — Re-registration Fee AED 3,610 — Term 1 (balance) AED 25,266 — Term 2 AED 21,656 — Term 3 AED 21,656. - Grade 8 (age 13–14): Applicable annual fee AED 72,188 — Re-registration Fee AED 3,610 — Term 1 (balance) AED 25,266 — Term 2 AED 21,656 — Term 3 AED 21,656. - Grade 9 (age 14–15): Applicable annual fee AED 72,188 — Re-registration Fee AED 3,610 — Term 1 (balance) AED 25,266 — Term 2 AED 21,656 — Term 3 AED 21,656. - Grade 10 (age 15–16): Applicable annual fee AED 78,488 — Re-registration Fee AED 3,925 — Term 1 (balance) AED 27,471 — Term 2 AED 23,546 — Term 3 AED 23,546. - Grade 11 (age 16–17): Applicable annual fee AED 87,990 — Re-registration Fee AED 4,400 — Term 1 (balance) AED 30,796 — Term 2 AED 26,397 — Term 3 AED 26,397. - Grade 12 (age 17–18): Applicable annual fee AED 87,990 — Re-registration Fee AED 4,400 — Term 1 (balance) AED 30,796 — Term 2 AED 26,397 — Term 3 AED 26,397. Tuition fees — Schedule B (New students joining in 2025–2026) — full detail per year group and term (amounts in AED) - Pre KG (age 3–4): Applicable annual fee AED 33,544 — Registration Fee AED 3,355 — Term 1 AED 10,063 — Term 2 AED 10,063 — Term 3 AED 10,063. - KG1 (age 4–5): Applicable annual fee AED 33,544 — Registration Fee AED 3,355 — Term 1 AED 10,063 — Term 2 AED 10,063 — Term 3 AED 10,063. - KG2 (age 5–6): Applicable annual fee AED 40,253 — Registration Fee AED 4,025 — Term 1 AED 12,076 — Term 2 AED 12,076 — Term 3 AED 12,076. - Grade 1 (age 6–7): Applicable annual fee AED 53,270 — Registration Fee AED 5,325 — Term 1 AED 15,983 — Term 2 AED 15,981 — Term 3 AED 15,981. - Grade 2 (age 7–8): Applicable annual fee AED 53,270 — Registration Fee AED 5,325 — Term 1 AED 15,983 — Term 2 AED 15,981 — Term 3 AED 15,981. - Grade 3 (age 8–9): Applicable annual fee AED 53,671 — Registration Fee AED 5,365 — Term 1 AED 16,104 — Term 2 AED 16,101 — Term 3 AED 16,101. - Grade 4 (age 9–10): Applicable annual fee AED 64,405 — Registration Fee AED 6,440 — Term 1 AED 19,321 — Term 2 AED 19,322 — Term 3 AED 19,322. - Grade 5 (age 10–11): Applicable annual fee AED 64,405 — Registration Fee AED 6,440 — Term 1 AED 19,321 — Term 2 AED 19,322 — Term 3 AED 19,322. - Grade 6 (age 11–12): Applicable annual fee AED 64,807 — Registration Fee AED 6,480 — Term 1 AED 19,443 — Term 2 AED 19,442 — Term 3 AED 19,442. - Grade 7 (age 12–13): Applicable annual fee AED 72,188 — Registration Fee AED 7,220 — Term 1 AED 21,656 — Term 2 AED 21,656 — Term 3 AED 21,656. - Grade 8 (age 13–14): Applicable annual fee AED 72,188 — Registration Fee AED 7,220 — Term 1 AED 21,656 — Term 2 AED 21,656 — Term 3 AED 21,656. - Grade 9 (age 14–15): Applicable annual fee AED 72,188 — Registration Fee AED 7,220 — Term 1 AED 21,656 — Term 2 AED 21,656 — Term 3 AED 21,656. - Grade 10 (age 15–16): Applicable annual fee AED 78,488 — Registration Fee AED 7,850 — Term 1 AED 23,546 — Term 2 AED 23,546 — Term 3 AED 23,546. - Grade 11 (age 16–17): Applicable annual fee AED 87,990 — Registration Fee AED 8,800 — Term 1 AED 26,396 — Term 2 AED 26,397 — Term 3 AED 26,397. - Grade 12 (age 17–18): Applicable annual fee AED 87,990 — Registration Fee AED 8,800 — Term 1 AED 26,396 — Term 2 AED 26,397 — Term 3 AED 26,397. Billing schedule and payment terms - Term due dates for the 2025–2026 academic year: Re-registration / Registration fees payable by 4 April 2025; Term 1 balance payable 22 August 2025; Term 2 payable 5 January 2026; Term 3 payable 27 March 2026. The academic year is divided into three terms (Term 1: September–December; Term 2: January–March; Term 3: April–June). - Payment options: online payments via Zenda (school-registered mobile number/email), bank transfer (Account Name: Raffles World Academy; Account No: 019000016092; IBAN: AE110330000019000016092; SWIFT: BOMLAEADXXX; Bank: Mashreq Bank, Branch DIC, Dubai, UAE; PO Box 500287), cheque (payable to Raffles World Academy; post-dated cheques for Term 2 & Term 3 accepted), credit card at school premises, or cash (receipt issued). For bank transfers, include child's ID, name and school name and send remittance to rwaaccounts@rwadubai.com. - Accepted payment patterns: payment for the full academic year in advance, or payment by three cheques dated for the 1st day of each term (or earlier). Bank transfer, cash or credit card payments for a whole term must be received no later than the 1st day of the term. Post-dated cheques are accepted for Term 2 and Term 3. A dishonoured cheque administration fee of AED 200 applies. - Mid-year / late enrolment billing: mid-year starters may be charged the full year's fees if a place is reserved from the start of the academic year; otherwise pro-rata term/month calculations apply (one month's fee, two months' fee or full term fee depending on duration attended). One month's fee is calculated as annual tuition divided by 10. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable; no boarding fees are listed in the 2025–2026 fee schedules or fact sheet. Raffles World Academy operates as a day school. Other costs and typical additional charges - Stationery and required education supplies (can be purchased from the school or externally). Uniforms: AED 800 to AED 3,000 (approximate range). School ID card replacement: AED 100. Optional services and ranges: Transport AED 9,000–10,000; Co-curricular / extracurricular activities AED 100–15,000; School trips AED 50–22,000; Club activities AED 1,000–8,000; Enrichment activities AED 500–9,000; Canteen/local trip costs vary. Textbooks for secondary students are available from the school at cost price; ownership of specified books is mandatory. Some items (uniforms, third-party items) are subject to suppliers' terms and refund policies. Refund information and conditions - Registration and re-registration fees are non-refundable but will be adjusted against Term 1 fees if admission is confirmed; these fees cannot be carried forward to the next term or adjusted toward a sibling's fees. - Refunds for tuition already paid are calculated based on the duration of attendance in the term in which the student leaves: less than two weeks — 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 in a term — full term fee payable. One month's fee is based on the annual fee divided by ten. Refunds are calculated from the start of the term to the date of formal withdrawal (withdrawal notice must be given in writing). A minimum 30 days' written notice of withdrawal is required to process applicable refunds. Certain items (registration/re-registration fee, educational materials fee, uniforms and other sundry expenses listed in Schedule C) are not subject to refund. Fee discounts and concessions - Sibling discounts: 5% for the second and third child, 10% for the fourth child, 15% for the fifth child and 20% for the sixth child onwards. Additional discounts may apply for employees, corporate arrangements, early payment, scholarships and Emirati students as per the fee fact sheet. Important notes - The school was granted a tuition increase of 2.35% for 2025–2026 under the KHDA school fee framework; the applicable annual fee values above reflect the 2025–2026 schedules. Expected term dates and exact start/finish dates are set by the school calendar for the academic year.
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 All students must wear the designated school uniform and comply with the dress code. Uniforms must be purchased from the designated supplier ZAKS Store, with at least two complete sets recommended; branches are Al Barsha 1, Circle Mall JVC, Oasis Mall and Uptown Mirdif Mall, and uniforms can also be ordered online with home delivery. The policy includes detailed guidelines on skirt length, socks, shoes, makeup, jewellery and acceptable hairstyles.
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 The dining facilities offer healthy meal options to cater to the diverse international community. The cafeteria provides daily offerings via Kalo Hospitality, including a live egg station at breakfast, smoothie counters, freshly baked products, salads and sandwiches, and a variety of vegetarian and non‑vegetarian lunches. Primary students can order pre‑packaged meals delivered to classrooms, with payments and ordering managed through the Kalo mobile app.
House system	House system —	House system RWA operates a house system to promote participation in school life. The school has house captains and sport leaders, with primary and secondary student leadership structures that support inter‑house activities and competitions.
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 Governance at RWA comprises a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council. The Board includes the owners and an independent member and oversees strategy, leadership appointments and financial stability; the Advisory Council represents parents and Innoventures Education management and meets several times a year. RWA is part of the Innoventures Education group.
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 World Academy is an IB World School in Dubai offering a continuum from kindergarten through Year 13, with a hybrid curriculum that takes the best from IB examinations. The Early Years (Pre-KG to KG2) follow the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) alongside the EYFS, with learning through inquiry and play. Primary (Grades 1–5) delivers the IB PYP, covering core subjects such as language, mathematics, social studies, science, ICT and the arts, and using cross-curricular themes linked to the UK National Curriculum. Middle Years Programme (Grades 6–10) implements the IB MYP as part of the IB continuum. Upper secondary (Grades 11–12) provides the IB Diploma Programme with DP courses and examinations typically held in May. The language of instruction is English, and a Mother Tongue programme supports additional languages including Russian, French, Italian, Hindi and German.
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 The school positions Pastoral Care at the heart of its approach to holistic development, focusing on students' social, emotional, and personal well-being. It includes mentorship programs, student leadership opportunities, and access to counsellors to support emotional and social development. SEL is embedded in the IB framework, guiding students to develop attributes from the IB Learner Profile. The Inclusion Team provides targeted support for SEND, TAG, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners, helping address social-emotional needs within a whole-school approach.
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) The Inclusion Team offers tailored support to students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), those who are gifted and talented (TAG), and students needing English language support (EAL). The school also has a dedicated Learning Support team to meet the needs of students with mild–moderate learning difficulties as well as those who are gifted and talented. Identification procedures involve CAT4 testing during admissions and teacher referrals, with the Inclusion team implementing appropriate support based on SEND, TAG, or EAL needs. Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework informs the inclusion provisions, developed as part of the school's strategic improvement plan.
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 The English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme is available for primary students via pull-out or in-class support provided by the Inclusion team. In the secondary school, students with EAL attend English Language Acquisition lessons within the Middle Years Programme (MYP) framework. The Inclusion Team coordinates EAL support across both primary and secondary sections. Admissions data and referrals are used to identify EAL needs as part of the inclusion process.
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 Mental wellbeing is supported through a warm, nurturing Pastoral Care system described as the heartbeat of the school, with mentorship programs, student leadership, and counselling services. The on-site clinic provides primary and preventive healthcare, staffed by a DHA-licensed doctor and two DHA-licensed nurses, and coordinates with staff and parents for student health needs. Counselling services are part of Pastoral Care, contributing to emotional and social support for students. Safeguarding policies reinforce safe and supportive environments with clearly defined roles and procedures.
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 The Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy states that the health, safety, and well-being of all children are paramount and safeguarding is everyone's responsibility. Staff must report any suspected or disclosed abuse to the designated child protection officer (DCPO) within 48 hours, and the DCPO will coordinate a school-based response that may include the doctor, nurse, counsellor, and leadership. Procedures include interviewing staff, gathering information, referrals to external agencies when needed, and maintaining confidential records. The policy references UAE law and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), and requires safer recruitment, training, and ongoing monitoring of safeguarding practices.
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 Raffles World Academy's Dubai campus sits on around 30,000 square metres in Umm Suqeim and accommodates a broad range of facilities to support IB learning. Academic facilities include a networked library, science laboratories (physics, biology and chemistry), computer labs and IT suites, and open, spacious classrooms equipped with projectors and computer clusters. Creative facilities comprise a theatre, music rooms, an art room and a dance studio for performing and visual arts. Sports and recreation facilities include a sports hall, a soccer field, swimming pools and courts for basketball and badminton. The campus also features a full cafeteria-style dining facility, prayer rooms with ablution facilities, and 24-hour security with CCTV.
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 A sports hall, a soccer field, swimming pools, tennis courts, and basketball and badminton courts provide spaces for team and individual sport activities.
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 The academic facilities include a well-resourced networked library, dedicated science laboratories for physics, biology and chemistry, computer labs and IT suites, and spacious classrooms with projectors and computer clusters.
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 Creative facilities include a theatre, music rooms, an art room and a dance studio that support performing and visual arts outside classroom time.
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 World Academy (RWA) was established in 2008. It began as Raffles International School (West Campus) and was renamed Raffles World Academy in September 2012. RWA is an IB World School offering the full IB continuum for Pre-KG to Grade 12, with the Primary Years Programme in Pre-KG to Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme in Grades 6–10, and the Diploma Programme and Careers-related Programme in Grades 11–12. The school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the International Baccalaureate and operates as part of the Innoventures Education family. It serves a diverse international community of around 1,900 students from more than 100 nationalities and has earned the Green Flag from Eco-Schools UAE.
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 RWA presents itself as a warm, nurturing community with pastoral care at its heart, and it emphasizes a strong partnership with its parent community. Student development is central to school decisions, and parents participate actively through channels such as the Parents Association. The school conducts UAE National Day celebrations and various arts and sports events, supported by its evolving facilities, including a multipurpose hall for performances and gatherings.
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 PARWA (Parents Association of Raffles World Academy) is the school's parent association. It comprises 21 volunteer parents on an executive committee and operates under the motto 'Empowering Future Generations.' PARWA began as Paris (West Campus) until 2016–17 and was rebranded to PARWA in 2017–18; its parent association was established in 2006. PARWA sponsors resources and books for language departments and the RWA library, funds the RWA stallions mascot, and supports national day and international day activities, student-led initiatives, and the Principal's award luncheon. It also assists with Arabic learning, hosts workshops for parents, runs a second-hand uniform shop, and organizes bake sales to raise funds for school initiatives. PARWA hosts annual teachers' appreciation luncheons, an annual security and cleaning staff luncheon, and a career fair for upper primary/secondary students, and invites parents to offer job-shadowing opportunities for Grade 11 students.
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 Raffles World Academy is an independent, co-educational KG–G12 (pre-school – Year 13) IB World School. It offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) up to Grade 5 (Year 6), the IB Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) in Grades 6–10 (Years 7–11), and the IB Diploma Programme and IB courses in Grades 11–12 (Years 12–13). It uses a hybrid curriculum taking the best from the IB Examinations.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The campus includes a Black Box Theatre. Library facilities, including a primary library, support reading and creativity.	Arts & creative The school provides a range of co-curricular arts opportunities and supports creative development as part of its holistic education.
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 A Mother Tongue programme supports multiple languages, including Russian, French, Italian, Hindi and German.
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 The school offers around 50 co-curricular activities (CCAs), including academic CCAs, eco initiatives, and character-building activities such as MUN conferences and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.
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 Pastoral care is a core focus, with mentorship programs and counselling services that support students' academic, emotional, social, and personal growth.
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 Student leadership and professional skills development are emphasised within a holistic education framework.
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 The campus supports sports and wellness through facilities and activities in line with its holistic education approach.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision An additional language is taught from Year 1.	Language provision English is the language of instruction for the IB Diploma Programme. Arabic is taught as part of the language curriculum, with Arabic A available for Arab nationals and Arabic B offered to non-Arab students. A Mother Tongue programme is offered in French, German, Russian, Spanish, Hindi and Italian, with 60-minute lessons, typically 1–2 sessions per week after school or during Islamic/Arabic studies depending on year level. The library provides books in Arabic, French, German, Mandarin and Spanish to support language learning.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
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 Raffles World Academy is a 12-grade IB World School offering KG to G12 (pre-school to Year 13). It provides the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) up to Grade 5 (Year 6), the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) in Grade 6–10 (Years 7–11) and the IB Diploma Programme in Grade 11–12 (Year 12–13) with a hybrid curriculum drawing from IB examinations. The main admissions intake is at the start of the academic year in September, and admissions are ongoing throughout the year depending on places. RWA is a 12-grade system and is part of the Innoventures Education family. An Admissions Policy & Admissions Procedures document is available. The school hours are Monday–Thursday 7:30 am to 3:30 pm and Friday 7:30 am to 1:00 pm, with Ramadan timings applying.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships Sports scholarships are offered. Eligibility requires representing one's country, region or city in a sport; demonstrating outstanding ability, dedication and potential; representing the school; making a significant contribution to the sport; and meeting targeted academic targets. Returning students may apply between June 1 and June 20 for the next academic year; new students may apply alongside the admission application. Applications are evaluated by a scholarship panel; awardees sign the Terms and Conditions of the Scholarship, the Letter of Agreement and the Code of Conduct, with an annual renewal process. A limited number of scholarships are available in categories including international athletes, inter-Emirate level athletes, or individuals recommended by a coach or organization; the scholarship is a percentage discount of tuition. Applications are submitted via the online IVEI Sports Scholarship Application Form and email sports@innoventureseducation.com with attachments (full school reports for the last two years and two letter of references). Deadline details for 2025–2026 cycle: 25 May 2025 / 20 June 2025.
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 —
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