Dubai International Academy Al Barsha vs Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills

	D Dubai International Academy Al Barsha Dubai, United Arab Emirates	D Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 47,807 - 84,928	Fees / year AED 44,979 - 79,696
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 1,638	Pupils 2,700
Typical class size	Typical class size 11	Typical class size 12
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Dubai International Academy Al Barsha is located on Al Barsha Road in Al Barsha 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits on a centrally located 23-acre site with facilities for sport, arts and academics, and is accessible by car, metro and bus. The postal address is Al Barsha, Dubai, UAE, P.O. Box 118111.	Location The campus is located in the Emirates Hills neighbourhood of Dubai, on First Al Khail Street near the Montgomerie Golf Course. It is accessible by major roads and sits among upscale residential areas. Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is the longest established IB continuum school in Dubai.
Stages	Stages The school serves children aged 3 to 18, from Pre-KG through Year 13. It offers the full International Baccalaureate continuum: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP).	Stages The school offers the International Baccalaureate continuum (PYP, MYP, DP, and CP) from KG to Year 13. This includes the full IB pathway for primary through senior years.
School type	School type Co-educational	School type Co-educational, day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The school represents students from over 90 nationalities. The inclusion programme explicitly recognises Emirati students among the student body. The most common nationalities and the local-to-international student ratio are not publicly published by the school.	Pupil nationality mix The student body represents over 90 nationalities; the school states it welcomes students of all nationalities and religions. The largest nationality group is not officially published.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Dubai International Academy Al Barsha runs an inclusive learning programme. The Inclusion team provides Learning Support Assistants, Learning Support Teachers and Social & Emotional Counsellors, with in-class support, small-group pull-out or one-to-one sessions as needed. The school offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) support, a formal Individual Education Plan (IEP) process for identified students, and works with external agencies when required. Primary and secondary provisions include targeted learning support and booster interventions, with regular progress reviews and close collaboration with parents and SEN coordinators.	Additional learning support Learning support comprises inclusion provision, English as an Additional Language (EAL), and targeted interventions. The school provides Individual Education Plans (IEPs/ALPs), counselling, and partnerships with specialists such as speech therapists, educational psychologists, and occupational therapists to support students with special needs or gifts and talents.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is published. The school operates as a private IB World School in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation. The school accepts students from any nationality and operates as part of Innoventures Education with a diverse international community.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No official religious affiliation; the school welcomes students of all religions and encourages inclusive participation.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation; the school welcomes students of all religions.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically begins around 7:30 am with morning bus arrivals. Lessons end around 3:00 pm, with after-school activities continuing until about 4:15 pm. Friday and weekend schedules may differ and are communicated through the school's admissions and calendar information.	School day structure School day timings vary by year group. KG1–KG2 run Mon–Thu with a start around 7:00–7:40 and early finish; Fridays are half-days (end around 12:00). Year 1–Year 6 run Mon–Thu from about 7:40–3:00 with a lunch break, and CCAs run after school; Fridays end around 12:00.
Bus service details	Bus service details A comprehensive bus network is provided through Arab Falcon, with bus assistants on all vehicles. Buses run before school to have students arrive by 7:30 am, after-school arrivals around 3:00 pm, and after CCA activities around 4:15 pm. The bus service is offered at an additional cost and routes can vary year to year; transport registration is required.	Bus service details Arab Falcon Bus Rental LLC provides the school's bus service. Buses are GPS-tracked with CCTV on board; seat allocation depends on route availability. For the 2024–2025 academic year, transport fees are around AED 8,200 per year, with a one-way option available at AED 6,150.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Entrance fees - Entrance test fee: AED 525 (includes 5% VAT). One-off, payable prior to taking the test; non‑refundable and adjustable against Term 1 fees. Registration / Re-registration fees - New students: Registration fee equals 10% of the annual tuition (listed as a specific amount per grade under the new-student schedule). The registration payment for new students is adjusted against Term 1 fees; it is not refundable. - Existing students: Re-registration fees are charged per grade (see amounts below) and are payable by the re‑registration due date; these are adjusted against Term 1 fees. Tuition fees – full detail per grade (Discounted annual tuition and term instalments for 2025–2026) Note: term due dates are listed in the Billing schedule section below. - Pre KG — Annual: AED 47,807. Existing-student term breakdown: Term 1 AED 19,123; Term 2 AED 14,342; Term 3 AED 14,342. New-student registration: AED 4,780; New-student Term 1 AED 14,343; Term 2 AED 14,342; Term 3 AED 14,342. - KG1 — Annual: AED 53,582. Existing-student re-registration fee: AED 2,680. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 18,752; Term 2 AED 16,075; Term 3 AED 16,075. New-student registration: AED 5,360; Term 1 AED 16,072; Term 2 AED 16,075; Term 3 AED 16,075. - KG2 — Annual: AED 56,237. Existing re-registration fee: AED 2,810. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 19,685; Term 2 AED 16,871; Term 3 AED 16,871. New registration: AED 5,625; Term 1 AED 16,870; Term 2 AED 16,871; Term 3 AED 16,871. - Grade 1 — Annual: AED 62,163. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,110. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 21,755; Term 2 AED 18,649; Term 3 AED 18,649. New registration: AED 6,215; Term 1 AED 18,650; Term 2 AED 18,649; Term 3 AED 18,649. - Grade 2 — Annual: AED 62,163. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,110. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 21,755; Term 2 AED 18,649; Term 3 AED 18,649. New registration: AED 6,215; Term 1 AED 18,650; Term 2 AED 18,649; Term 3 AED 18,649. - Grade 3 — Annual: AED 62,608. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,130. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 21,914; Term 2 AED 18,782; Term 3 AED 18,782. New registration: AED 6,260; Term 1 AED 18,784; Term 2 AED 18,782; Term 3 AED 18,782. - Grade 4 — Annual: AED 62,608. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,130. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 21,914; Term 2 AED 18,782; Term 3 AED 18,782. New registration: AED 6,260; Term 1 AED 18,784; Term 2 AED 18,782; Term 3 AED 18,782. - Grade 5 — Annual: AED 62,608. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,130. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 21,914; Term 2 AED 18,782; Term 3 AED 18,782. New registration: AED 6,260; Term 1 AED 18,784; Term 2 AED 18,782; Term 3 AED 18,782. - Grade 6 — Annual: AED 70,635. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,530. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 24,723; Term 2 AED 21,191; Term 3 AED 21,191. New registration: AED 7,065; Term 1 AED 21,188; Term 2 AED 21,191; Term 3 AED 21,191. - Grade 7 — Annual: AED 70,635. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,530. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 24,723; Term 2 AED 21,191; Term 3 AED 21,191. New registration: AED 7,065; Term 1 AED 21,188; Term 2 AED 21,191; Term 3 AED 21,191. - Grade 8 — Annual: AED 70,635. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,530. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 24,723; Term 2 AED 21,191; Term 3 AED 21,191. New registration: AED 7,065; Term 1 AED 21,188; Term 2 AED 21,191; Term 3 AED 21,191. - Grade 9 — Annual: AED 78,170. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,910. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 27,358; Term 2 AED 23,451; Term 3 AED 23,451. New registration: AED 7,815; Term 1 AED 23,453; Term 2 AED 23,451; Term 3 AED 23,451. - Grade 10 — Annual: AED 78,170. Existing re-registration fee: AED 3,910. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 27,358; Term 2 AED 23,451; Term 3 AED 23,451. New registration: AED 7,815; Term 1 AED 23,453; Term 2 AED 23,451; Term 3 AED 23,451. - Grade 11 — Annual: AED 84,928. Existing re-registration fee: AED 4,245. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 29,727; Term 2 AED 25,478; Term 3 AED 25,478. New registration: AED 8,495; Term 1 AED 25,477; Term 2 AED 25,478; Term 3 AED 25,478. - Grade 12 — Annual: AED 84,928. Existing re-registration fee: AED 4,245. Existing term breakdown: Term 1 AED 29,727; Term 2 AED 25,478; Term 3 AED 25,478. New registration: AED 8,495; Term 1 AED 25,477; Term 2 AED 25,478; Term 3 AED 25,478. KHDA‑approved tuition figures - The school also lists the KHDA‑approved annual tuition amounts per grade (as published for the regulator). These KHDA figures are shown on the same fee page. Billing schedule and payment terms - Re-registration (existing students) is payable by 4 April 2025. Term 1 payment date: 22 August 2025. Term 2 payment date: 5 January 2026. Term 3 payment date: 27 March 2026. New‑student registration is payable on 22 August 2025 with Term 1/2/3 dates matching the term dates above. - Post‑dated cheques for Term 2 and Term 3 are accepted. Registration/re‑registration payments are adjusted against Term 1 fees. Boarding fees - Boarding: not applicable. The published fee schedule does not list boarding accommodation or boarding fees. Other costs and optional charges - Stationery and learning materials. - Educational and field trips (local and overseas) charged case‑by‑case. - Voluntary excursions and sports tournament costs. - School uniform, team kits and sporting attire. - External examination fees and other examination‑related charges. - Meals and canteen costs. - Transportation / school bus fees. - Insurance (parents are advised to maintain health, accident and liability cover). - Textbooks for secondary students are available for purchase from the school at cost; parents may alternatively purchase independently but ownership of required books is mandatory. - Some items are sold by independent suppliers and are subject to the suppliers' own refund terms and conditions. Refund information - The entrance test fee (AED 525) and registration fee (10% of annual fees or the grade-specific registration amount for new students) are non‑refundable. - Additional items supplied by independent vendors (uniform suppliers, external providers) are subject to those suppliers' refund terms. The school's fees page references the school Terms & Conditions for the full position on refunds and returns. Fee payment options - Online payment via the Zenda payments platform (app.zenda.com / Zenda app). - Cheque payable to Dubai International Academy Al Barsha (please indicate child's ID, name and grade on the back). Post‑dated cheques for Term 2 and Term 3 are accepted. - Credit card payments accepted at the school. - Bank transfer. Account details published for transfers: Account Name Dubai International Academy Al Barsha; Account No. 01239753301; IBAN AE900440000001239753301; SWIFT SCBLAEADXXX; Standard Chartered Bank, Dubai Branch. Payment advices should include child's ID, name and school name and a copy of remittance should be sent to accounts@diabarsha.com. - Cash payments accepted (collect a signed and stamped receipt). Sibling discount - Sibling discount structure: 5% for the second and third child; 10% for the fourth child; 15% for the fifth child; 20% for the sixth child (applied to annual tuition). Notes - All figures above are presented in AED and correspond to the published fee schedules for the 2025–2026 school year as listed in the school's fee schedules and fee fact sheet.	Fee details Application / Entrance fees - Entrance test fee (new applicants): AED 525. This is a one-off payment, payable prior to taking the test and prior to admission; the fee is non-refundable but is adjustable against Term 1 fees for the year of admission. Tuition fees — summary by year group (academic year 2025–2026) Note: amounts are shown in UAE Dirhams (AED). Two fee schedules are published: Schedule A for existing students and Schedule B for new students. For each entry below the breakdown is: Annual fee; Annual enrollment / re-enrolment (advance payment) — payable 04 Apr 2025; Term 1 fee — payable 25 Aug 2025; Term 2 fee — payable 05 Jan 2026; Term 3 fee — payable 06 Apr 2026. - KG1 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 44,979; Annual re-enrolment AED 0; Term 1 AED 17,991; Term 2 AED 13,494; Term 3 AED 13,494. - KG2 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 50,726; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,535; Term 1 AED 17,755; Term 2 AED 15,218; Term 3 AED 15,218. - Year 1 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 51,202; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,560; Term 1 AED 17,920; Term 2 AED 15,361; Term 3 AED 15,361. - Year 2 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 3 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 4 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 5 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 6 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 57,983; Annual re-enrolment AED 2,900; Term 1 AED 20,293; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 7 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 65,224; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,260; Term 1 AED 22,830; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 8 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 65,224; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,260; Term 1 AED 22,830; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 9 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 65,224; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,260; Term 1 AED 22,830; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 10 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 72,482; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,625; Term 1 AED 25,367; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 11 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 72,482; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,625; Term 1 AED 25,367; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 12 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 79,696; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,985; Term 1 AED 27,893; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. - Year 13 (Schedule A — existing): Annual AED 79,696; Annual re-enrolment AED 3,985; Term 1 AED 27,893; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. - KG1 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 44,979; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 4,500; Term 1 AED 13,491; Term 2 AED 13,494; Term 3 AED 13,494. - KG2 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 50,726; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,075; Term 1 AED 15,215; Term 2 AED 15,218; Term 3 AED 15,218. - Year 1 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 51,202; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,120; Term 1 AED 15,360; Term 2 AED 15,361; Term 3 AED 15,361. - Year 2 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 3 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 4 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 5 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 6 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 57,983; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 5,800; Term 1 AED 17,393; Term 2 AED 17,395; Term 3 AED 17,395. - Year 7 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 65,224; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 6,520; Term 1 AED 19,570; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 8 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 65,224; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 6,520; Term 1 AED 19,570; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 9 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 65,224; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 6,520; Term 1 AED 19,570; Term 2 AED 19,567; Term 3 AED 19,567. - Year 10 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 72,482; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,250; Term 1 AED 21,742; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 11 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 72,482; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,250; Term 1 AED 21,742; Term 2 AED 21,745; Term 3 AED 21,745. - Year 12 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 79,696; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,970; Term 1 AED 23,908; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. - Year 13 (Schedule B — new students): Annual AED 79,696; Annual enrolment (advance) AED 7,970; Term 1 AED 23,908; Term 2 AED 23,909; Term 3 AED 23,909. Billing schedule and payment terms - Published payment dates for the 2025–2026 fee schedule are: Annual re‑enrolment / advance payment due 04 Apr 2025; Term 1 due 25 Aug 2025; Term 2 due 05 Jan 2026; Term 3 due 06 Apr 2026. Term and advance payment amounts are shown in the Schedule A (existing) and Schedule B (new) breakdowns above. - Post‑dated cheques are accepted for Term 2 and Term 3 fee payments. Boarding fees - Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills operates as a day school; there are no boarding fees because the school does not provide boarding. Other costs and additional charges - A non-exhaustive list of additional costs charged separately includes: stationery; educational and field trips (costs invoiced case-by-case); voluntary excursions or sports tournaments with incurred costs; school uniforms and team kits; external examination fees; meals; transportation; and other activities for which costs accrue to the school. Some items may be provided by independent suppliers and will be subject to those suppliers' own terms and refund policies. - English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision, when required by the school, carries an annual charge of AED 4,500; this fee is payable when EAL provision starts and is non-refundable. - Sibling discount: 0% generally; a 10% discount applies for the fourth child onwards. Refund information - Entrance test fee (AED 525), the annual enrolment / advance payment for new students (10% of annual fees as shown in Schedule B), and the EAL annual charge (AED 4,500) are specified as non-refundable. Some other items purchased from independent suppliers are subject to those suppliers' refund terms. Fee payment options and bank details - Accepted payment methods include: online payment via the school's payment portal (login with student ID and date of birth); bank transfer; cheque (made payable to Dubai International Academy with student ID, name and grade on the back, and hand-delivered to the Accounts Office if required); credit card payments at the school premises; and cash (with a signed, stamped receipt to be taken). Parents sending bank transfers should include the child's ID, name and school name in the transfer and send a copy of the remittance/transfer advice or SWIFT message to accounts@diadubai.com to enable timely update of records. Post‑dated cheques for Term 2 and Term 3 are accepted. - Bank transfer details provided for payments are: Account Name: Dubai International Academy; Account No.: 010493150923; IBAN: AE860330000010493150923; SWIFT: BOMLAEAD; Bank: Mashreq Bank; Branch: Riqa, Dubai, UAE. Notes and miscellaneous - All textbook lists for secondary students are published for the academic year and textbooks may be purchased from the school at cost price; parents may alternatively buy textbooks independently but it remains mandatory that students own the required books specified by the school. Some extra‑curricular activities and trips will carry separate charges notified when applicable.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements DIA Emirates Hills operates as a day school with no boarding provision. Students attend on-site during the day and return home after lessons.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement DIA Emirates Hills uses a designed school uniform for all students. The uniform is supplied by ZAKS Uniform Store, Al Barsha, and items can be viewed/bought online with free home delivery via ZAKS. All uniform items must be clearly labelled.
Food options	Food options The school provides on-site catering through Kalo Hospitality with healthy and nutritious food. Daily offerings include a live egg station for breakfast, live fresh smoothie counters, freshly baked bakery products, and fresh salads and sandwiches with multigrain bread; vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available. Primary school students can order pre-packaged meals delivered daily, and students may bring their own meals.	Food options Kalo Hospitality is the on-site catering provider. Cafeterias offer breakfast options (including a live egg station) and smoothies, bakery items, fresh salads and sandwiches, and a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian lunches. Primary students can order pre-packaged meal boxes delivered to classrooms; meals are managed via a mobile app.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership DIA Barsha is governed by the Board of Directors and an Advisory Council. The Board includes the owners and an independent member. Founding partners are Abdulla Majed Al Ghurair; H.E. Dr. Anwar Mohammed Gargash; Avishesha (Avi) Bhojani; Poonam Bhojani; Michael Stephen; James Roberts.	Governance and ownership DIA Emirates Hills is governed by a Board of Directors and an Advisory Council. The Board includes the owners and an independent member and oversees strategy, policies, leadership appointments, and financial stability. The Advisory Council comprises parents, Innoventures Education management, and a Board Director, meeting several times a year to guide development. The school is part of Innoventures Education, led by the CEO, Poonam Bhojani.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Dubai International Academy Al Barsha offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum: PYP, MYP, DP, and CP, for students from age 3 to 18 (Pre-KG to Grade 12). The Primary Years Programme (PYP) runs from Pre-KG through Grade 5, with a Programme of Inquiry that blends elements from UK Early Years Development Matters for Pre-KG and KG1 and the UK National Curriculum for KG2–Grade 5, alongside UAE Moral, Social and Cultural Studies. In the Middle Years Programme (MYP), students in Grade 6–10 follow eight subject groups, with a Grade 10 Personal Project and Service as Action, culminating in the MYP Certificate. For post-16, the options include the IB Diploma Programme (DP) full pathway, DP Courses as a tailored pathway, the IB Career-Related Programme (CP) as a hybrid academic-vocational pathway, and a BTEC vocational pathway. The language of instruction is English, and a Mother Tongue Programme is offered. The campus serves over 1,800 students from more than 90 nationalities on a 23-acre site, with a 100% IB Diploma pass rate reported.	Curriculum details Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills offers the International Baccalaureate continuum, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3–12, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11–16, the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16–18/19, and the Career-related Programme (CP). In the Diploma Programme, Year 12–13 students may pursue the IB Diploma or IB Courses; the Diploma requires six subjects (one from each Group 1–6), with three HL and three SL, plus the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS. The MYP (Years 7–11) supports inquiry-based learning and includes a Year 11 Personal Project and a Year 9 Community Project, with a focus on intercultural awareness and service. The PYP (ages 3–12) centers on six transdisciplinary themes and six subject areas, providing a coherent frame that leads into the MYP. Arabic is compulsory KG1–Year 9 with Arabic A for native speakers and Arabic B for non-natives; Modern Foreign Languages (French or Spanish) are offered from primary Year 3 and again in secondary from Year 7, with a Mother Tongue program for multiple languages. English is the language of instruction for most subjects, with English Language and Literature available at HL/SL in DP, and additional language options including Arabic, French and Spanish, plus a Mother Tongue program.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning DIA Al Barsha supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a dedicated Wellbeing Team that includes Student Ambassadors, Parents, School Counsellors, Teachers, Senior Leaders and Governors, and by running wellbeing initiatives throughout the year such as stakeholder surveys, social activities, charters and wellbeing-tracking software.	Social & emotional learning DIA Emirates Hills supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Learning Support Program, which includes emotional support and school counselling delivered by a team of dedicated specialists, counsellors and advisors who monitor student progress. The program develops individual life plans for identified students, addressing four areas: inside the classroom, after-school activities, clubs/teams/events, and external activities, with plans created and regularly reviewed with input from students, parents, teachers and counsellors. There is a strong emphasis on differentiation in the classroom to meet diverse needs and on providing an inclusive learning environment. The Inclusion provisions purposefully support Students of Determination and Gifted and Talented learners alongside general education. Mentoring for At-Risk students and college counselling are integrated to support wellbeing and future pathways.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The Inclusion Programme provides support for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), English as an Additional Language (EAL), Gifted and Talented (G&T), Emirati students and sporting students, with an Inclusion Team comprising Learning Support Assistants, Learning Support Teachers and Social & Emotional Counsellors; plans are developed with input from students, parents, teachers and counsellors, and progress is tracked via Individual Education Plans and regular reviews; the school is not a specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) In DIA Emirates Hills, inclusion is supported by a holistic Inclusion framework that provides appropriate provision, resources and curricular options for identified students. Students receive Individual Education Plans (IEP) or Advanced Learning Plans (ALP) with targeted strategies, and progress is tracked through regular meetings with teachers and administration, as well as informal assessments and intervention classes delivered by qualified specialists. There are exam access arrangements and partnerships with external specialists such as speech therapists, educational psychologists and occupational therapists to support assessment and provision. The SENDCo roles (Kindergarten & Primary SENDCo and Secondary School SENDCo) coordinate and guide teachers, parents and external professionals, with support from the ALPHA coordinators for Gifted and Talented learners. The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework 2017 informs inclusion practice and KHDA guidance on inclusion is cited in the school's materials.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language EAL support is provided under the Inclusion Programme as part of the school's inclusive learning approach.	English as an additional language English as an Additional Language (EAL) support starts in Year 1 for non-English speakers and continues in the Secondary School from Year 7 to Year 11. EAL teaching staff work with small composite groups in designated EAL classrooms or join homeroom classes to support learners, depending on needs. The programme aims to strengthen fluency in English for school and wider community use, with focus on expanding vocabulary, oral and written skills, listening and comprehension, and building confidence. The EAL provision is designed to enable students to progress toward full engagement with the Language A Programme after about a year in many cases. EAL is closely linked with mainstream programmes to support academic progress, identity, and self-worth.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the Wellbeing Team and School Counsellors, with ongoing wellbeing initiatives addressing physical, mental and emotional health across the student community.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through emotional support and school counselling as part of the DIA Emirates Hills Learning Support Program. A holistic approach underpins wellbeing, with the Inclusion Team aiming to ensure access to high-quality education for every student and to foster personal growth, confidence and happiness. Wellbeing support is delivered by the same multidisciplinary team that monitors student progress and coordinates targeted interventions. The program emphasizes inclusivity and differentiated support to nurture resilience and social-emotional development for Students of Determination and Gifted and Talented learners. This framework aligns wellbeing with academic progress and broader development goals.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding A Safeguarding Policy governs child protection at the school, detailing reporting procedures, roles (Designated Safeguarding Lead and Designated Safeguarding Officers), staff responsibilities and training, with disclosures to be handled promptly and confidentially; the policy was last reviewed in September 2024.	Safeguarding The DIA Emirates Hills page for Student Support does not publicly disclose safeguarding or child-protection policies. Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework 2017 provides the regulatory context for inclusive practice in Dubai, and KHDA guidance informs inclusion practices in the emirate, but specific school-level safeguarding procedures are not described on the page. If safeguarding details are required, inquiries should be directed to the school's inclusion or admissions contacts. The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework and KHDA resources offer broader context for safeguarding-related considerations in Dubai's private schools.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Dubai International Academy Al Barsha sits on a 23-acre campus in Dubai with facilities that support academics, sport and performance. Academic facilities include a library, science laboratories, product design laboratories, digital design laboratories, a Diploma Programme study centre, and dedicated spaces for technology-enabled learning. Creative and performing spaces include music and drama rooms and an auditorium for performances. Outdoor and social spaces comprise KG play areas, shaded play areas, social benches, a greenhouse and beehives. The campus also features an athletics track, a field, a pool and a gymnasium, with tennis courts and cricket nets for sport.	Facilities overview Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is an international private school in Emirates Hills, Dubai for Boys & Girls aged 3–18. The campus spans 482,000 square feet. It includes a networked library and specialist rooms for music, design & technology, art, dance, drama, and language learning, plus a music and movement room for kindergarten. It features fully equipped science labs, computer labs, and design technology labs, along with outdoor learning spaces. Four climate-controlled multipurpose halls support sports and other activities, along with three swimming pools, a fully grassed outdoor playing field with shaded play areas, and shaded outdoor basketball and tennis courts.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The sports facilities at the DIA Al Barsha campus include an athletics track, a field, a swimming pool, a gymnasium, tennis courts and cricket nets.	Sports facilities The campus includes four climate-controlled multipurpose halls for sports and other activities. It has three swimming pools and a fully grassed outdoor playing field with shaded play areas and shaded outdoor basketball and tennis courts. The outdoor spaces support a range of physical education and team sports. These facilities support a broad range of athletic programs as part of co-curricular activities.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include a library, science laboratories, product design laboratories and digital design laboratories, a Diploma Programme study centre, and spaces for technology-enabled learning such as an innovation room.	Academic facilities Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is an IB World School offering PYP (Years 1–6), MYP (Years 7–11), DP (Years 12–13) and IBCP (Years 12–13). It follows an inquiry-based, holistic, international curriculum with a broad, balanced, conceptual, and connected approach. The campus includes a networked library and specialist rooms for music, design & technology, art, dance, drama, and language learning, plus a dedicated music and movement room for kindergarten. It provides fully equipped science labs, computer labs, and design technology labs to support science and technology education. Arabic is compulsory for KG1–Year 9; from Year 3, primary students study French or Spanish; from Year 7, secondary students study either French or Spanish. A Mother Tongue Programme offers 2–3 hours per week of language instruction for native speakers of multiple languages; this is provided as an extra paid activity with classes for languages including Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and Mandarin. The school also offers a Future Skills Programme and a Career Counselling service.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The Co-Curricular Activities Programme includes sport, performance activities and trips; the Duke Of Edinburgh Award is offered, along with Entrepreneurship, Sustainability and Service Learning initiatives as part of Holistic Learning.	Extra curricular facilities Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills offers a variety of Co-Curricular Activities for students, including art, reading club, musical instruments, drama, organized sport activities, karate, computer courses, science clubs, photography and more, in a supervised setting. A Future Skills Programme and Career Counselling are available. The element of co-curricular activities is complemented by language and pastoral support programs.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Dubai International Academy Al Barsha opened in 2018 as the second DIA campus. The original Dubai International Academy, Emirates Hills, was established on September 10, 2005. DIA is part of Innoventures Education, the group that operates the DIA network. The Al Barsha campus sits on a 23-acre site in central Dubai and offers the IB continuum across four programmes. The DIA Barsha community numbers around 1,800 students representing more than 90 nationalities.	History Dubai International Academy, Emirates Hills (DIA EH) was established in September 2005 as the original DIA campus in the Emirates Hills area, created to offer the full International Baccalaureate continuum. It was the first school in the UAE to be authorised by the IB to offer PYP, MYP, DP and CP, making it a pioneer of the IB continuum in the country. The school is operated by Innoventures Education, and has grown to host more than 2,000 students from over 77 nationalities. DIA EH holds regular accreditation with the Council of International Schools (CIS) and NEASC, and has Green Flag status from Eco-Schools UAE, underscoring its commitment to quality and sustainability. As the flagship DIA campus, the Emirates Hills site has informed the brand's expansion, including the 2018 opening of Dubai International Academy, Al Barsha, and ongoing growth into new DIA campuses such as Dubai International Academy, Town Square, planned to open in August 2026.
Community	Community Dubai International Academy Al Barsha hosts a truly international community with around 1,800 students from more than 90 nationalities. Student wellbeing is a priority in a warm, nurturing environment supported by a dedicated wellbeing team and pastoral care. The co-curricular program offers a broad range of activities, including sports, arts, and local and international trips. DIA Barsha also emphasizes holistic learning with structured pastoral care and wellbeing provisions.	Community DIA Emirates Hills serves a diverse community of more than 2,000 students from over 77 nationalities. The school hosts the Dubai International Academy Model United Nations (DIAMUN), a THIMUN-affiliated conference that is among the region's largest, attracting delegates from multiple schools and countries. The Eco Club leads long-running environmental campaigns and has been involved in COP28-related model events and other initiatives recognized in national media for environmental action. Family and community events, including the Winter Souk and International Evening, are organized with active parent participation through PADIA.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association PADIAB is a group of volunteer DIA Barsha parents who organize events and services for the school community. The group is led by a Core Group committee that meets regularly with senior academic staff, and any DIA Barsha parent can join. PADIAB runs events and fundraisers to build community spirit and provide graduation gifts at milestones in students' education. It is responsible for community-building activities (welcoming new parents and hosting annual events and social activities) and for supporting learning through Service Learning, Sustainability, Sports, Arts and Events. Funds raised support school-approved projects and PADIAB also runs the second-hand uniform and bookshop. Membership is open to all DIA Barsha parents, and the Core Group keeps the school leadership informed via monthly meetings.	Parent teacher association PADIA, the DIA Emirates Hills Parents Association, is a formal body of DIA parents with a core group of volunteers and elected leaders who plan events and initiatives for students, parents and staff. PADIA has a constitution and an on-site office, and its members meet with school leadership; meetings typically occur at least twice a week to coordinate activities. The association runs events such as parent coffees with guest speakers, the Winter Souk, International Evening, movie nights, and bake sales, and coordinates fundraising activities as well as a pre-loved uniform and textbook shop. PADIA also runs a welcoming programme for new families and maintains open communication channels with school leadership through parent representatives.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers the International Baccalaureate continuum for learners aged 3 to 18, including the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP). English is the instructional language for all subjects. The IB curriculum is delivered in a 12-grade structure with an entry age of 3 years at Pre-KG. The campus spans 23 acres and supports an academically rigorous, inquiry-based approach with broad opportunities for skills development and character education.	Academic & intellectual Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills offers the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, DP, CP) from KG1 to Year 13. Learning emphasizes inquiry-based, holistic and internationally minded approaches within a broad, connected curriculum. DP outcomes are strong, with a 100% DP pass rate and outstanding results.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Centre for Musical Arts is the exclusive provider of instrumental and vocal music lessons for Dubai International Academy, Al Barsha. CMA offers lessons on piano, guitar, ukulele, voice, woodwind, brass and drumkit.	Arts & creative The campus provides spaces for music, design & technology, art, dance and drama, and language learning. Co-curricular activities include art, reading club, musical instruments, drama, organised sport activities, karate, computer courses, science clubs and photography. A dedicated music and movement room with sprung floors supports kindergarten learning, and the arts are integrated into the broader campus facilities.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language English is the instructional language for all subjects. Arabic is compulsory for all students in Grade 1 to Grade 9. From Grade 2, students can learn French or Spanish as part of the Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) programme. The school runs a Mother Tongue Programme to support home languages, with options including Dutch, Hindi, Swedish, Italian, French, Spanish, Russian, Turkish, Portuguese and German. English is the instructional default for all lessons, with MT offerings conducted in the mother tongue where possible.	Cultural & language Arabic is compulsory for all students in KG1 to Year 9, with Arabic A for Arab nationals and Arabic B for non-Arab nationals. From Year 3, Primary students have the option of French or Spanish as part of the Modern Foreign Languages programme, with 120 minutes of instruction per week. In Secondary from Year 7, both French and Spanish are offered and students choose. Mother tongue programmes include Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish, Swedish and Turkish, with targeted weekly hours.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies DIA Barsha offers a Co-Curricular Activities Programme with a 'Something for Everyone' aim. Most CCAs are free of charge and run by school staff using in-house facilities; paid CCAs are offered by external providers when necessary. Students register directly with the activity providers, and spaces are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. CCAs support social skills, wellbeing and broader personal development beyond the classroom.	Social & hobbies A broad range of co-curricular activities supports social engagement and hobbies, including art, reading clubs, musical instruments, drama, organized sports, karate, computer courses, science clubs and photography. The campus facilities support varied activities with climate-controlled spaces and outdoor play areas. Nearly all sports have strong participation, with many teams competing at Division 1 level.
Community & service	Community & service Service Learning is a central part of IB learning, with students conducting service activities, logging and reflecting on their experiences. The programme also includes trips at Dubai, UAE and international levels, each with specific learning outcomes. Trips are integrated with academic, social or personal development goals.	Community & service GIVE, Innoventures Education's philanthropic initiative, mobilises students, staff and families to support education and access to clean water, with significant fundraising and on-the-ground projects. GIVE has sponsored libraries and schools in multiple countries and has raised over AED 3 million to date. The DIA community participates in activities such as packing stationery kits for under-resourced UAE students and other charitable projects.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school offers the Duke Of Edinburgh International Award with Bronze, Silver and Gold levels, each requiring four components: Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition (Gold includes a five-day residential). The programme is open to everyone aged 14–24 and focuses on personal growth, resilience and community involvement. Entrepreneurship opportunities exist through the Entrepreneurs programme, exposing students to enterprise activities, internships and real-world projects such as classroom Shark Tank pitches.	Leadership & professional Leadership development is a key focus, with opportunities through Model United Nations, The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, Eco Club, Water for Life Club, DI@TECH, Debating, Science, Robotics, Business Minds and more. The school emphasises university preparation, including dedicated career counselling from age 14 and a track record of university placements at institutions worldwide. The Enquiry Form highlights a full IB offering and extensive language and leadership pathways to support student trajectories.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is a core priority, defined as a sense of community, purpose and fulfilment, with balance and good health. A dedicated Wellbeing Team — including Student Ambassadors, Parents, School Counsellors, Teachers, Senior Leaders and Governors — ensures student voices are heard and wellbeing goals are advanced. The school runs wellbeing initiatives throughout the year and uses dedicated measures to monitor and improve wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Pastoral care and wellbeing are central to the DIA experience, with a Learning Support programme designed to help every student succeed in and outside the classroom. The community emphasises social, emotional and physical wellbeing as part of daily life and learning. Campus facilities — including four multipurpose halls, three swimming pools and shaded outdoor play spaces — support active and healthy living.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school teaches in English. Dubai International Academy Al Barsha offers all four IB programmes: PYP, MYP, DP, and CP. The school serves students from Pre-KG to Grade 12.	Language provision Arabic is compulsory for KG1 to Year 9. From Year 3 onwards in primary, students may study French or Spanish, with 120 minutes of MFL instruction per week. In secondary, both languages are offered from Year 7. A Mother Tongue program provides 2-3 hours per week of language instruction in Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Spanish, Swedish and Mandarin, scheduled within the timetable and taught by native-speaking teachers; the language of instruction is English.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations KHDA rating Very Good (January 2024). The school is an authorised IB World School offering the full continuum of four IB programmes (PYP, MYP, DP, CP) for students aged 3–19/18, serving a diverse community of over 90 nationalities.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions DIA Barsha is an international IB school in Dubai for children aged 3 to 18 and offers PYP, MYP, DP and CP. Applications are accepted year-round and must be completed online. If no places are available, the application is placed on the registration list. When a place becomes available, the first eligible applicant is invited to assessment, either on site or abroad. For PKG, a questionnaire; for KG and Grade 1, a general English and math test (non-verbal clues may be used); for Grades 2 and above, CAT4 digital testing. For abroad applicants, assessments can be arranged; an assessment fee of AED 525 applies. Documents required for assessment include passport copy, valid UAE residence visa, birth certificate in English or Arabic, immunisation record, two passport photos, last two years' reports, confidential school report, and transfer certificates as applicable. On enrolment, Emirates IDs are swiped and KHDA approval leads to signing the Parent School Contract. The admission process should be completed within 5 working days of the assessment for Dubai-based students. The school aims to respond within 1-2 working days, provide test results within 3 working days, and communicate the outcome within 5 working days from the test. Final admission decisions follow KHDA guidelines. SEND placements follow UAE law and the Dubai Inclusive Policy Framework; placements depend on space. EAL support is available for primary students.	Admissions —
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist Applications are accepted year-round; if no places are available, the application is placed on the registration list.	Waitlist —
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