GEMS Our Own High School - Al Warqa vs Indian International School Dubai Silicon Oasis

	G GEMS Our Own High School - Al Warqa Dubai, United Arab Emirates	I Indian International School Dubai Silicon Oasis Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 7,828 - 16,299	Fees / year AED 9,679 - 21,000
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Boys School	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum CBSE Curriculum	Curriculum CBSE Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 4,659	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2005	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Find us in the heart of Al Warqa'a, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Mailing address: PO Box 35519, Al Warqa'a 1. The campus is in the Al Warqa'a area.	Location Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai, UAE.
Stages	Stages KG 1 to Grade 12; Primary School; Middle School; Secondary School; Senior Secondary	Stages Pre-KG to Grade 10.
School type	School type Boys' school	School type An Indian CBSE curriculum school in Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Inclusive education with provisions for students of determination. DSIB inspectors recognized the Inclusion Department as a success story. There is an open-door policy with the counsellor and accommodations are provided in line with the Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework and UAE law.	Additional learning support Care & Support for Students with Learning Differences: the school offers support to students with learning differences in a variety of settings using methodologies based on individual needs; suitable learning challenges are set through comprehensive analysis and assessment. Psychometric tests are organized for students of different age groups, and meetings with parents are held; an Advanced Learning Plan is prepared for gifted students.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation United Arab Emirates	Country affiliation India.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details STS Group provides transport services for Our Own High School - Al Warqa'a. Buses are equipped with CCTV, ADAS cameras, GPS tracking and RFID; supported by a 24/7 Operations Control Centre. There are dedicated pickup/drop-off points in areas such as Al Warqa'a 1 and 2, Mirdif, Dubai Silicon Oasis and other zones; registration is via the school's Service Delivery Executive. Transport fees apply and route availability cannot be guaranteed for all requests.	Bus service details The school provides IIS-DSO transport with fixed bus routes. At least 1 month's notice is required to apply. Check the IIS-DSO BUS ROUTES on the website to find the nearest stop and Bus Route Number; seat availability is confirmed with the Transport Department in Oud Metha. Submit the IIS-DSO TRANSPORT FORM and pay the bus fees posted on the site.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application fee - An application fee of AED 525 is payable upon acceptance of the Offer Letter. This fee is not applicable to current GEMS students and is non‑refundable, non‑transferable and non‑adjustable. Registration / enrolment deposit - A Registration Deposit equal to 10% of the annual tuition fee is collected at admission. This deposit is non‑refundable, non‑transferable but is adjustable against the total tuition fee for the academic year (deducted from tuition). For returning students there is a re‑enrolment charge of up to 5% of the tuition fee or AED 500 (whichever is higher), non‑refundable and deductible from the first term fees. Tuition fees (annual and per‑term breakdown using standard GEMS term split 40% / 30% / 30%) - Tuition fees are quoted per academic year (p.a.). The school and GEMS use a standard term instalment split where the annual tuition is invoiced as 40% in Term 1, 30% in Term 2 and 30% in Term 3. The following shows the published annual fee and the corresponding term amounts calculated on a 40/30/30 basis: - KG1 & KG2 — Annual: AED 7,828 - Term 1 (40%): AED 3,131.20 - Term 2 (30%): AED 2,348.40 - Term 3 (30%): AED 2,348.40. - Grades 1–3 — Annual: AED 9,447 - Term 1 (40%): AED 3,778.80 - Term 2 (30%): AED 2,834.10 - Term 3 (30%): AED 2,834.10. - Grades 4–5 — Annual: AED 9,558 - Term 1 (40%): AED 3,823.20 - Term 2 (30%): AED 2,867.40 - Term 3 (30%): AED 2,867.40. - Grades 6–8 — Annual: AED 10,724 - Term 1 (40%): AED 4,289.60 - Term 2 (30%): AED 3,217.20 - Term 3 (30%): AED 3,217.20. - Grades 9–10 — Annual: AED 13,276 - Term 1 (40%): AED 5,310.40 - Term 2 (30%): AED 3,982.80 - Term 3 (30%): AED 3,982.80. - Grade 11 (Commerce) — Annual: AED 15,758 - Term 1 (40%): AED 6,303.20 - Term 2 (30%): AED 4,727.40 - Term 3 (30%): AED 4,727.40. - Grade 11 (Science) — Annual: AED 16,299 - Term 1 (40%): AED 6,519.60 - Term 2 (30%): AED 4,889.70 - Term 3 (30%): AED 4,889.70. - Grade 12 (Commerce) — Annual: AED 15,758 - Term 1 (40%): AED 6,303.20 - Term 2 (30%): AED 4,727.40 - Term 3 (30%): AED 4,727.40. - Grade 12 (Science) — Annual: AED 16,299 - Term 1 (40%): AED 6,519.60 - Term 2 (30%): AED 4,889.70 - Term 3 (30%): AED 4,889.70. Billing schedule and payment terms - The Registration Deposit (10% of the annual fee) is collected at admission and is adjustable against the annual tuition. Existing‑student re‑enrolment fees (where applicable) are charged at re‑enrolment and are deductible from the first term. The school enforces fee payment: students may be withheld from examinations and reports will be withheld if fees are not paid. Full first‑term fees (or applicable instalment) must be cleared before a student's first day of attendance under standard GEMS payment practice. Standard GEMS instalment timing is at the start of each term (Term 1 / Term 2 / Term 3). One‑off, mandatory and examination fees - A sum of AED 31.50 (including VAT) is charged for Bus ID card, Diary and Report Card. - Board / external examination charges: - Grade 10 board exam fee: AED 825. - Grade 12 board exam fee: AED 900. - CBSE registration charge: - For Grade 9 and Grade 11: AED 100 each. Other costs and optional fees - Required education supplies and likely ranges (purchase from school or external suppliers): Uniforms AED 600–1,200; Books AED 163–400; Laptop / digital device AED 100–150. Optional services and variable costs include transport (approx. AED 4,380–6,000), canteen costs (approx. AED 50–2,500), class photographs, event costumes, local educational trips and school magazine. These are presented as typical mandatory / optional fee items and ranges. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. The school's published fee information and the KHDA School Fee Fact Sheet list transport and other optional day‑school services but do not include boarding fees or boarding facilities. Refunds and non‑refundables - The Application fee is non‑refundable, non‑transferable and non‑adjustable. The Registration Deposit (10% of the annual fee) is non‑refundable and non‑transferable but is adjustable against the annual tuition. Re‑enrolment fees (where applied) are non‑refundable and are deductible from the first term fees. These refund / non‑refund terms apply to the application, registration and re‑enrolment charges noted above. Fee payment options - Online payment via the GEMS Oasis payments portal is available. Parents paying by direct bank transfer must notify the fee counter with student details. The school fee counter accepts cash, credit card and cheques (payable to ‘Our Own High School‑Al Warqa\'a, Dubai'); post‑dated cheques are not accepted. The FAB GEMS World Credit Card is promoted for advance annual fee payments (discount/benefits as applicable). Contact addresses and fee counter timings are published for fee enquiries and payment.	Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application (one‑time, new students): AED 500 (assessment included). - Re‑enrolment (existing students, once a year): up to 5% of the tuition fee or AED 500 (whichever is higher); non‑refundable and deductible from the first term fees. Tuition fees — published amounts and billing basis (per grade) All tuition amounts are shown as annual fees (covering 10 months); equivalent monthly and typical 3‑term instalment examples (KHDA term split 40% / 30% / 30%) are given below for clarity. - Pre‑KG — Annual: AED 21,000; Equivalent per month (10 months): AED 2,100.00; Typical term split (40/30/30): Term 1 AED 8,400.00, Term 2 AED 6,300.00, Term 3 AED 6,300.00. - KG1 — Annual: AED 9,679; Equivalent per month: AED 967.90; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 3,871.60, Term 2 AED 2,903.70, Term 3 AED 2,903.70. - KG2 — Annual: AED 9,679; Equivalent per month: AED 967.90; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 3,871.60, Term 2 AED 2,903.70, Term 3 AED 2,903.70. - Grade 1 — Annual: AED 10,347; Equivalent per month: AED 1,034.70; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 4,138.80, Term 2 AED 3,104.10, Term 3 AED 3,104.10. - Grade 2 — Annual: AED 10,347; Equivalent per month: AED 1,034.70; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 4,138.80, Term 2 AED 3,104.10, Term 3 AED 3,104.10. - Grade 3 — Annual: AED 10,347; Equivalent per month: AED 1,034.70; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 4,138.80, Term 2 AED 3,104.10, Term 3 AED 3,104.10. - Grade 4 — Annual: AED 10,347; Equivalent per month: AED 1,034.70; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 4,138.80, Term 2 AED 3,104.10, Term 3 AED 3,104.10. - Grade 5 — Annual: AED 11,292; Equivalent per month: AED 1,129.20; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 4,516.80, Term 2 AED 3,387.60, Term 3 AED 3,387.60. - Grade 6 — Annual: AED 11,292; Equivalent per month: AED 1,129.20; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 4,516.80, Term 2 AED 3,387.60, Term 3 AED 3,387.60. - Grade 7 — Annual: AED 12,572; Equivalent per month: AED 1,257.20; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 5,028.80, Term 2 AED 3,771.60, Term 3 AED 3,771.60. - Grade 8 — Annual: AED 13,128; Equivalent per month: AED 1,312.80; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 5,251.20, Term 2 AED 3,938.40, Term 3 AED 3,938.40. - Grade 9 — Annual: AED 13,796; Equivalent per month: AED 1,379.60; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 5,518.40, Term 2 AED 4,138.80, Term 3 AED 4,138.80. - Grade 10 — Annual: AED 14,290; Equivalent per month: AED 1,429.00; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 5,716.00, Term 2 AED 4,287.00, Term 3 AED 4,287.00. - Grade 11 — Annual: AED 17,865; Equivalent per month: AED 1,786.50; Typical term split: Term 1 AED 7,146.00, Term 2 AED 5,359.50, Term 3 AED 5,359.50. Mandatory one‑off / annual charges (per student) - Resource / annual charges (covers exam materials, laboratory, e‑learning subscription, online subscription, ID card, school diary & calendar, technology charges): - Pre‑KG: AED 1,250 (once a year). - KG1 and above: AED 1,225 (once a year). - Facility fee (non‑refundable; applicable to new admissions only): AED 1,750 (one‑off). Transport (school bus) costs and rules - School transport is provided to major locations subject to demand and availability. Bus fees vary by route/area and are billed as per the transport schedule; route fees are published and must be paid before the first day of school. Example route fee differences were shown in the transport FAQs (e.g., AED 370 vs AED 535 in sample area comparisons). Annual transport rates listed by third‑party listings fall in the range of several thousand AED (varies by route). - Transport seat allocation, route changes and cancellations have specified notice periods (typically 1 month to apply / 3 months for cancellation) and new ID / validation procedures are required when changing routes. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition figures are published per annum covering 10 months; the school issues fees and receipts in line with its fee payment procedures. Parents may use the school's parent portal for online payment; bank transfers are accepted to the branch account for IIS DSO (Bank of Baroda, IBAN AE04 0110 0900 1020 0015 457). Standing instructions on credit cards are noted as an accepted arrangement where applicable. Official receipts are issued once the school verifies payment details; allow up to three working days for receipt processing in normal periods. - Where termly instalments are chosen, the KHDA framework is used to structure instalments (example split often applied across Dubai schools: up to 40% first term, 30% second term and 30% third term); the school also uses the 10‑month division to calculate an equivalent monthly instalment. Exact instalment dates and acceptable payment schedules are managed through the Fees Department / parent portal. Other charges and optional services - Required education supplies and optional services (for example stationery, books, ID replacement, extracurricular optional services) are charged in addition to the annual tuition and mandatory resource/facility fees; the school publishes a separate schedule for required supplies and optional services. The resource/annual charge already covers items listed under exam materials, ID card and technology charges. Refunds and cancellation - Cancellation of a provisional offer/admission and any advance fee paid will not be refunded. The facility fee is non‑refundable (applicable to new admissions). For withdrawals during the academic year, fee adjustments and refunds are calculated in line with KHDA guidelines and the school's admission/withdrawal procedures; the Fees Department determines the amount payable or refundable at withdrawal. Parents must complete withdrawal formalities and clear dues before transfer certificates are issued. Fee payment options and procedures - Online payment: use the campus parent portal. - Bank transfer: DSO branch account – Bank of Baroda, Account Name: The Indian International School, IBAN AE04 0110 0900 1020 0015 457, SWIFT BARBAEADDUB. Parents should email proof of transfer to the school's fees email as instructed to enable receipt issuance. - Credit card standing instruction: accepted by arrangement with parents' bank; processing and receipt timing depend on the bank's transmission of payment details. Official receipts are issued after verification and may take up to three working days in normal periods. Notes on discounts and scholarships - The school applies staff discounts (school employees) up to 100% and a scholarship scheme up to 15% where applicable.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The school has a hygienic canteen on campus.	Food options —
House system	House system A flourishing house system enables senior students to work together for the benefit of the community and to take on responsibilities.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership GEMS Education operates the school; Our Own High School, Al Warqa'a, is a GEMS school created in 2005.	Governance and ownership The Indian International School – DSO is part of The Indian High Group of Schools. It is managed by a philanthropic Board of Trustees and operates as a not-for-profit school.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The school follows the Indian Curriculum and is one of the leading Indian Curriculum Schools in Dubai. Primary School provides an excellent grounding in basic skills while stimulating students' natural inquisitiveness. Middle School aims for students to reach their full potential through engaging learning. Secondary School helps students stay focused on their goals as they advance and broaden their knowledge. Senior Secondary programmes respond to individual needs and foster enthusiasm for learning. Teaching Principles ensure every student acquires a high standard of skills, and Inclusion underpins the school's policies and processes.	Curriculum details Primarily aligned to the CBSE curriculum. The curriculum combines learning intents and standards from international benchmarks and the UAE National Agenda. The school emphasizes holistic development with steady progression from grade to grade and embeds 21st-century learning skills. Reading is fostered as a culture through diverse contexts and platforms. Kindergarten (KG1 and KG2) focuses on literacy, numeracy, and Understanding Our World through inquiry-based, activity-led learning. In Secondary (Grades 9–10), Hindi and French are options for second language; Arabic and UAE Social Studies are part of the curriculum through Grade 9; Artificial Intelligence and Computer Applications are offered as skill subjects from Grade 9.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio The school maintains a teacher-student ratio of 1.63:1.	Student teacher ratio Compact class sizes with a 16:1 student-teacher ratio. This supports close attention to academic, social, and personal development.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results All India Secondary School Examination – 2025, CBSE Grade 10: 100% pass rate (210 students: 100 girls and 110 boys). 65 students (31%) scored 90% and above, 149 students (71%) scored 80% and above, and 195 students (93%) scored 70% and above. All 210 students (100%) placed in the first division (60% and above). The batch average was 84.3%.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression University Destinations show that graduates are accepted by some of the world's most prestigious universities. The school prepares students to pursue tertiary education in their chosen fields and to be ethical and socially engaged leaders. Through the CBSE curriculum, students develop analytical capability, versatility, and critical thinking, traits that are highly regarded by universities.	Higher education progression Career guidance prepares students for higher education. The Guidance Counsellor provides one-on-one sessions on university admissions, tests, and employability, and group sessions from Grade 8 onward to help students understand their interests and plan future study. Grade 9 focuses on aptitude to inform choices, while Grade 10 sessions support selecting streams and pathways. These services help students build a strong profile for further study and informed decision-making.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented The school has a learning support program addressing the needs of Students of Determination and Gifted and Talented students. The inclusion ethos ensures equal access to learning and development. The school aims to enable all students to learn, participate, and demonstrate their strengths.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning An inclusive pastoral system monitors students' academic progress and welfare. A counsellor is available for parents to discuss concerns. The inclusive ethos is recognized by DSIB as a success story, and the Inclusion Department is cohesive and well led. The school welcomes students with varied needs and provides appropriate provisions and accommodations in the classroom. The motto 'Every child is a Genius' underpins the school's approach to learning and development. The school maintains a transparent, open-door policy toward inclusion.	Social & emotional learning Student happiness and wellbeing is an integral part of learning at IIS DSO; the school provides a safe, secure and inclusive learning environment for all students. Mindfulness sessions are conducted at the start of the term to help students focus and reduce anxiety, supporting social-emotional learning. A de-stress lounge lightens moods during stressful periods and features calming elements such as plants, art therapy, and calming music. Thematic Weeks integrate knowledge with wellbeing, including KYS Week, Safety Week, Wellness Week, and Innovation Week. Building Bonds Sessions support social development by helping students from KG to Grade 5 build stronger bonds with peers and teachers through activities like Home Tour, memory games, scavenger hunts, and open mic events. Heartfulness Practice supports wellbeing through heart-based meditation, and Project Evexia is a student-led wellbeing program with Wellbeing Champions and a motto of “we'll keep each other well.”
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) DSIB recognizes the Inclusion Department as a success story. Students of Determination are welcomed, and staff provide provisions and accommodations in the classroom. The Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework (2017) and Federal Law No 29 of 2006 and Law No 2 of 2014 govern protection of rights of persons with disability in the Emirates of Dubai. An Inclusion Policy (2026) guides school support across all stages. The policy underscores the transparent approach to meeting diverse needs, and parents may discuss concerns with the school counsellor. Overall, inclusion is embedded in school policies and processes.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school welcomes students of determination and has a learning support program addressing the individual needs of students of determination, gifted and talented. The school creates a supportive environment that gives each student equal access to learning and development, enabling all students to learn from each other and engage in learning activities together. The school follows procedures for catering to individual needs with specialist staff and uses screening-tools to ensure accurate identification and inclusive teaching. Identified needs are evaluated and discussed in light of classroom observations, notebook work, periodic tests and term exams. Care & Support for Students with Learning Differences provides support in a variety of settings using methodologies based on individual needs. Care & Support for Highly Abled, Gifted and Talented Students provides extension work, opportunities to participate in external competitions, meetings with parents, and an Advanced Learning Plan.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language —	English as an additional language —
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Optimus Wellbeing Award recognizes the school's commitment to mental health and wellbeing. The Wellbeing Award is developed by the National Children's Bureau and Optimus Education. The award highlights dedication to promoting mental health and wellbeing across the school community. The school continues to foster a supportive environment where every student thrives. The award demonstrates the school's emphasis on student wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing Counselling Services collaborate with teachers and parents to identify academic and psycho-socio-emotional needs and provide targeted interventions. Interventions are tailored to the needs of Students of Determination to remove barriers and support learning. The Counselling team includes Counsellors, Special Educators and Learning Support Assistants who empower Students of Determination to manage difficulties and participate in wellbeing programs. Career Guidance provides university admissions, tests, and employability guidance, with group sessions from Grade 8 to help students plan their futures. The program focuses on developing skills and behaviours essential for academic achievement and holistic personal development. Heartfulness Practice supports wellbeing through heart-based meditation and is part of the school's wellbeing approach.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding GEMS Safeguarding Policy 2025 is listed. GEMS Safeguarding Policy - Arabic 2025 is listed. GEMS Child Safeguarding Commitment Statement is listed. Inclusion Policy 2026 is listed. These policies address safeguarding and child protection within the GEMS network.	Safeguarding Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy (Version 10: Sept 2025) sets out the school's commitment to protect and safeguard the rights and welfare of all students. The policy applies to all stakeholders and requires ongoing awareness, training and responses to concerns. Types of abuse include physical, psychological, sexual, potential and cyber abuse, with explicit examples. There are clear procedures for reporting concerns, including notifying the Designated Child Protection Officer and avoiding independent investigations; confidentiality is maintained. Digital safeguarding covers network security, data security, cyber hygiene, cyberbullying, and social media guidelines. External agencies are involved as needed, and parents are notified when required, with records monitored by the DCPO.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview General Facilities include spacious classrooms and centrally air-conditioned admin spaces, a large multi-purpose hall, an indoor play area, an art & craft room, a hygienic canteen, and a large canopy for morning assemblies. The library is well-stocked with periodicals, maps, charts, audio-visual materials, and provides computer access in the Senior Library. There are three large science laboratories, five computer laboratories with Pentium processors and interactive whiteboards, and a Composite Laboratory. The Play Field supports football, volleyball, basketball, cricket, badminton, table tennis, and athletics, with two basketball courts, a volleyball court, cricket nets, and an Astro-turf playground. Medicinal facilities include two first-aid centres with doctors, nurses, attendants and helpers. The campus also features a bookstore, a mosque, Robotics and STEAM programs, and participation in the F1 in Schools competition.	Facilities overview —
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has two basketball courts, a volleyball court, cricket nets, and an Astro-turf playground. It supports activities in football, cricket, basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis and athletics, with additional coaching outside hours and transport provided for matches.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Three large science laboratories provide facilities for physics, chemistry and biology. Five computer laboratories with Pentium processors and interactive whiteboards offer independent workstations for each student. A Composite Laboratory supports mathematics and science concepts through hands-on activities. Robotics and STEAM education are integrated to broaden learning, and the school participates in the F1 in Schools program.	Academic facilities —
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Our Own High School offers a kaleidoscope of co-curricular activities, community involvement programmes and school events, with an Activity period built into the timetable. Creative Expressions Visual Arts provides opportunities for art competitions and talent shows, with activities such as painting, crafts and other media. The Performing Arts program develops music through choirs and ensembles, with musicals, cultural performances, dances, elocution and drama. Public Speaking trains students in speeches, debates and elocution. Physical Education covers cricket, football, badminton, volleyball, table tennis and basketball, with free coaching after hours and inter-school matches. Scouting, Educational Field Trips and Olympiads in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Computer Science supplement the curriculum.	Extra curricular facilities —
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The school uses the CBSE curriculum to deliver a holistic education. GEMS Our Own High School - Al Warqa'a was created in 2005 as a single-shift facility for boys of Our Own English High School, Dubai, which was established in Bastakiya in 1968. Our Own High School - Al Warqa'a shares the same vision, ethos and work culture that has given the parent school its presence. Our Own High School - Al Warqa'a now has 4,700 students and 218 teachers. DSIB inspectors have awarded the school an overall GOOD for seven consecutive years.	History —
Community	Community Our Own High School embraces the GEMS philosophy of preparing the whole child for the whole world. The school offers a kaleidoscope of co-curricular activities, community involvement programmes and school events, with an Activity period built into the timetable. Creative Expressions Visual Arts provides a platform for student creativity through art competitions and displays around the school. The Performing Arts develop vocal and instrumental skills and include musicals, cultural performances, dances, elocution and drama; there are also opportunities for public speaking, sports, scouting, field trips, and Olympiads.	Community —
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Parent Partnership focuses on close communication between guardians and the school. Guardians receive progress updates through consultation evenings and written reports, and there is an open-door policy for speaking with staff. Parental engagement is supported by international research that shows it impacts student achievement. The program describes how parental involvement in daily learning activities can boost student outcomes. It also notes that parental engagement can enhance teacher effectiveness.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school runs KG 1 to Grade 12 and is affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi. The curriculum is designed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to prepare students for leadership in the knowledge society. A pastoral system monitors students' academic progress and welfare. The school prepares students for AISSE (end of Grade 10) and AISSCE (end of Grade 12), enabling admission to universities worldwide.	Academic & intellectual Extra-curricular activities cater to a wide range of talents and interests and develop essential life skills alongside academics. During school hours and after school, activities include health and wellness weeks, theme weeks, and celebrations that support holistic learning. A Model United Nations Club gives middle and high school students opportunities for research, public speaking, debate, and teamwork. The school participates in programs such as Round Square, Change Makers Challenge, and I Can, Expo 2020, with awards for outstanding delegates.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Visual Arts provides a wide platform for artistic energy, with art competitions and talent shows held throughout the year. Artworks are displayed around the school and students explore drawing, painting and three-dimensional work as well as crafts such as glass painting, fabric painting, sand painting, mask making and vegetable printing. The Performing Arts include vocal and instrumental development, participation in choirs and ensembles, and involvement in musicals, dances, elocution and drama. Public Speaking is taught from primary grades through high school, with debates and elocution to develop oral communication.	Arts & creative After-school clubs include Theatre, Art, Cookery, Music, Graphic, Oratory Club, Tech Club and Dance Club. There are exclusive collaborations such as One Step Ahead Production for Theatre and Drama and TEDx Talks. Vocal Music, Slice of Art, and Creative Writing are offered, including areas like Creative Writing for Grades 5-9 and related performances.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language National and UAE days are celebrated with performances and themed activities, including Republic Day and UAE National Day. Hindi Diwas features recitation, skits, and writing activities in Hindi. French language is offered in after-school sessions for Grades 1-4, and virtual tours plus Cultures of the World activities broaden cultural understanding.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies A kaleidoscope of co-curricular activities, community involvement programmes and school events supports the all-round development of the students' personality. An Activity period is incorporated into the timetable for these activities. The activities span arts, sports and other informal interests, enriching the school experience.	Social & hobbies Term-end celebrations, reading lounges, and social spaces like Reading Lounge and Reading Corners foster social interaction and creative expression. Corridor makeovers, Happening Junction, and related activities build collaboration and communication skills. Parent Talks and Doctor's Talks involve families and support student wellbeing.
Community & service	Community & service The school conducts Educational Field Trips and outings that are interesting, fun-filled and educative, with student involvement as a prime objective. There are community involvement programmes and volunteering opportunities embedded in school life. Olympiads in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Computer Science are organised by the Council of CBSE schools in the Gulf. These activities contribute to students' broader civic and educational experiences.	Community & service Ramadan Drive – Giving Back collects food, clothing and other necessities to help the less fortunate, fostering generosity and social responsibility. The school emphasizes service and volunteering as part of its global community mindset. Students engage in community outreach through various drives and service projects. The school's emphasis on social responsibility underpins these activities.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Student Council and Mini Council develop leadership and organizational skills. The Model United Nations Club and external programs such as Round Square and Change Makers Challenge cultivate research, public speaking, teamwork, and leadership. TEDx Talks and exclusive theatre collaborations expand opportunities for initiative and professional presentation.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Students participate in many physical activities including cricket, football, badminton, volleyball, table tennis, basketball, gymnastics, athletics and swimming. Free coaching is provided after regular class hours. Facilities for physical education are provided through Etisalat Academy. Inter-school matches and sporting events promote teamwork and a healthy lifestyle.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing is prioritized through Wellness Week, Mindfulness Sessions, International Yoga Day, and the Dubai Fitness Challenge. Heartfulness Sessions and other mindfulness programs support mental wellbeing. The Happiness & Wellbeing initiatives and related activities focus on students' physical and emotional health.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Language of instruction is English. Arabic is offered as an Additional Language; Arabic as a First Language is not applicable. In the early years, Arabic instruction includes KG1 daily 15-minute cultural sessions for basic Arabic and KG2 two weekly sessions, taught by two Arabic-speaking teachers. The Arabic and Islamic curricula connect with Emirati culture, and English is used for Moral, Social and Cultural Studies and other subjects.	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards The school has won the Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Distinguished School and School Administration in 2002 and 2005. It holds ISO 9001:2008 certification from Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance, UK. It is a member of Dubai Quality Group.
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations The school has Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Award for Distinguished School and School Administration in 2002 and in 2005. It has ISO 9001:2008 certification from Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance, UK. It is a member of Dubai Quality Group.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. The school is for BOYS from Grade 1 to Grade 12. It has an open admission policy and welcomes all students regardless of nationality, ethnicity, religion or medical diagnosis. First preference is given to siblings of students already enrolled. For Grade 1, the child must be 6 years old as of 31 March in the admission year. The new academic year commences on 1 April. 2. Registration is online in October each year. Admissions to Grade 2 and above depend on vacancies, which are known by February. For Grade 1 admissions, shortlisted applicants are invited for an admission and interaction session with the Supervisor and the Counsellor, after which admission is confirmed. For admissions to Grade 2 and above, an entrance test will be conducted if necessary. All admissions are subject to KHDA approval. 3. Documents required at the time of admission include: 2 copies of the student's passport with a valid UAE visa; 3 copies of the student's Emirates ID; 2 copies of the parents' Emirates IDs; 4 recent photographs of the child (plus one stamp-size photo for the identity card); 2 copies of the last examination mark sheet; and a Transfer Certificate. Transfer Certificates must be prepared according to the applicable attestations based on the student's origin as described in the Transfer Certificates section. 4. Transfer Certificates: For moves from Dubai, the original School Leaving Certificate must be collected from the previous school, and the parent must present the original certificate and the original Emirates IDs. For moves from another emirate in UAE, the original Transfer Certificate should be attested by the Ministry of Education in that emirate, with the parent bringing the original TC, a copy of the promotion report, and the original Emirates IDs. For moves from India, the Transfer Certificate must be attested by the District Education Officer in India and then attested in Dubai by the Indian Consulate and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. For moves from Gulf countries other than the UAE, the original Transfer Certificate must be attested by the Ministry of Education of that country, the Indian Consulate, the Ministry of External Affairs, and the UAE Consulate/Embassy in that country. 5. Parent School Contract: After submitting the original Transfer Certificate and registering with Emirates ID in the KHDA school system, the Parent School Contract is signed online through the mobile app or electronically in school. The contract is a one-time agreement when the child joins the school and is renewed every year unless the child changes schools. 6. Enrolling Online: Enquiries are made through the school's own website. A guide on how to fill out the online form is provided, and a service request number is issued. Print a copy of the receipt or note the service request number if you cannot print. The service request number must be provided to the school Registrar to proceed with admission. 7. New Admission Fees: An Application Fee of AED 525 is due upon acceptance of the Offer Letter (non-refundable and not applicable for GEMS Students). A Registration Deposit of 10% of the annual fee is collected during admission and is non-refundable but adjustable against the total tuition for the academic year. 8. Payment of Fees: Online fee payment is available. If online access has issues, contact the school. Fees can also be paid at the School Fee Counter by cash, card, or cheques (made payable to Our Own High School-Al Warqa'a, Dubai). Please bring the Student ID Number when paying. Students will not be permitted to take examinations if fees are unpaid, and reports may be withheld.	Admissions 1. Fill out the admission form. This is the first step in the IIS DSO admissions process. Submitting the form starts the application sequence and initiates the progression to the next steps. Ensure the information provided is accurate to avoid processing delays. 2. Submit documents & report card. The required documents include 1 copy of the child's passport, visa and Emirates ID; 1 copy of both parents' passport, visa and Emirates ID; 1 copy of the child's birth certificate (with attestation if issued outside UAE); 2 passport-size photographs; Vaccination records; copies of school progress reports for the last two years including the most recent examination; and Transfer Certificate or School Leaving Certificate (with attestations). If CAT4 assessment was not completed in the last two years, it will be required after admission. 3. Take the eligibility test. For KG 2 to Grade 9, admission is based on the performance in the Eligibility Test and panel interview. A merit list is prepared in rank order and offers are made in line with vacancies in each grade. Grade 10 admission requires CBSE registration and performance in the Eligibility Test and an interview; Grade 11 admission is based on an Eligibility Test with merit-based seat allocation. 4. Clear the eligibility test and receive offer letter. Successful candidates are enrolled after meeting the minimum performance criteria and ranking. A merit list is used to inform parents based on vacancies. An offer letter is issued upon meeting the criteria and completing any required interviews. 5. Pay the required fees and submit all other documents. Admission is offered to those meeting the criteria subject to payment of fees and submission of all valid documents listed. The required documents include copies of passports, visas, Emirates IDs, Birth Certificate, vaccination records, progress reports, and Transfer Certificate, among others. 6. Provisional admission and KHDA registration. Provisional admission is granted and confirmed upon KHDA registration. KHDA registration is mandatory for all new admissions and must be completed before attendance; registration is campus-specific and not transferable between IIS campuses. All admissions are subject to KHDA approval and seat availability.
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Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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