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GEMS International School Al Khail

United Arab Emirates, Dubai

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· Reviewed by · B2C Marketing Manager

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees AED 52,415 - 79,488
Ages 3 - 18 years
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Introduction

GEMS International School Al Khail is a co‑educational IB World School located on Al Marabea Street (Exit 18, Al Khail Road) in the Dubai Hills/Al Marabea East area of Dubai. The school delivers the International Baccalaureate continuum—Primary Years (PYP), Middle Years (MYP) and Diploma (DP)—and also offers the IB Career‑related Programme for post‑16 students, serving children aged 3 to 18 across kindergarten, primary, middle and senior phases. English is the main language of instruction; the school's curriculum and subject listings indicate taught additional languages that include Arabic, French and Spanish. Campus facilities highlighted by the school include a dedicated STEAM and an Aviation Centre, and the school is named by GEMS as its Centre of Excellence for Aeronautics, Aviation and Space, with practical programmes such as pilot training, drone work, coding, robotics and space‑related activities noted on the school site.

Al Marabea Street, Exit 18 Al Khail Road, Al Marabea East, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

The Essentials

GEMS International School Al Khail has instruction in English.

Location
GIS Al Khail is located in Dubai Hills Estate, Dubai. The campus sits within the Dubai Hills development and is accessible via Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and Al Khail Road (E44), serving families across Dubai including areas such as Al Barsha, Arabian Ranches, and Business Bay. The address is Al Marabea Street, Exit 18 Al Khail Road, Dubai Hills Estate, Al Marabea East, Dubai, UAE.

Stages
GIS Al Khail serves Pre-KG to Grade 12. It is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP) for a continuous IB continuum from early childhood to the pre‑university level. The typical age range is about 3 to 19 years.

Type
The school is a co‑educational day school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
The school hosts students from more than 100 nationalities; the community includes 105 nationalities represented in Early Childhood. The most represented nationalities are not published, and the local Emirati proportion is not disclosed.

Additional learning support
GIS emphasises inclusive education and provides support for English language learners (ELL) and students with Additional Learning Needs (SEN) within its campus. There is a focus on inclusion and multilingual learning environments.

Country affiliation
None. It operates as an IB World School in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Religious affiliation
None.

School day structure
The school day starts at 8:10 am. For Early Years, formal learning ends at 2:20 pm with optional after‑school activities until 3:05 pm. For Grades 1–12, the usual finish is around 3:15 pm from Monday to Thursday, with Friday hours typically earlier (about 11:40 am).

Bus service
STS Group provides GIS with a dedicated transport service featuring CCTV surveillance, GPS tracking, and ADAS. To register or query routes, contact the school's Service Delivery Executive at sde-gis@sts-group.com or call +971 558775488.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniforms are compulsory for all students at GIS Al Khail and can be purchased from Threads at the Time Square branch or online via ThreadsMe. The school maintains a standard dress code with occasional alternate dress days for events (e.g., UAE National Day or 'Wear it Pink'), and guidelines prohibit figure-hugging clothing, spaghetti straps, exposed midriffs, offensive logos, open footwear, and ripped jeans.

Food Options
The campus features a cafeteria where students can enjoy nutritious meals. A Food Technology Lab supports culinary and nutrition-focused activities as part of the facilities.

Governance and Ownership
GIS Al Khail operates as part of the GEMS Education network. The school is accredited by the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Fees

Annual tuition at GEMS International School Al Khail ranges from AED 52,415 to AED 79,488 for 2026/27.

Application fee

- Application fee for new students: AED 525. This fee is refundable only if the school does not offer a place (unless registration is carried forward to the following academic year). The application fee is non‑refundable if the school offers a place and the family chooses not to accept it, and it is not deductible from total tuition if a place is accepted.

Registration deposit

- New students: a registration deposit equal to 10% of total tuition fees is payable once a place is offered and parents accept the offer. This 10% deposit is deductible from the total tuition for the academic year and is non‑refundable.
- Existing (re‑enrolling) students: a re‑registration deposit equal to 5% of total tuition fees is payable at re‑enrolment; this is deductible from the total tuition for the academic year and is non‑refundable.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and per term)

- Pre KG: Annual fee AED 52,415. Term 1 AED 20,965; Term 2 AED 15,725; Term 3 AED 15,725.
- KG 1: Annual fee AED 54,301. Term 1 AED 21,721; Term 2 AED 16,290; Term 3 AED 16,290.
- KG 2: Annual fee AED 54,301. Term 1 AED 21,721; Term 2 AED 16,290; Term 3 AED 16,290.
- Grade 1: Annual fee AED 59,023. Term 1 AED 23,609; Term 2 AED 17,707; Term 3 AED 17,707.
- Grade 2: Annual fee AED 59,023. Term 1 AED 23,609; Term 2 AED 17,707; Term 3 AED 17,707.
- Grade 3: Annual fee AED 59,032. Term 1 AED 23,609; Term 2 AED 17,707; Term 3 AED 17,707.
- Grade 4: Annual fee AED 59,023. Term 1 AED 23,609; Term 2 AED 17,707; Term 3 AED 17,707.
- Grade 5: Annual fee AED 70,827. Term 1 AED 28,331; Term 2 AED 21,248; Term 3 AED 21,248.
- Grade 6: Annual fee AED 70,827. Term 1 AED 28,331; Term 2 AED 21,248; Term 3 AED 21,248.
- Grade 7: Annual fee AED 70,827. Term 1 AED 28,331; Term 2 AED 21,248; Term 3 AED 21,248.
- Grade 8: Annual fee AED 70,827. Term 1 AED 28,331; Term 2 AED 21,248; Term 3 AED 21,248.
- Grade 9: Annual fee AED 75,550. Term 1 AED 30,220; Term 2 AED 22,665; Term 3 AED 22,665.
- Grade 10: Annual fee AED 75,550. Term 1 AED 30,220; Term 2 AED 22,665; Term 3 AED 22,665.
- Grade 11: Annual fee AED 79,488. Term 1 AED 31,796; Term 2 AED 23,846; Term 3 AED 23,846.
- Grade 12: Annual fee AED 79,488. Term 1 AED 31,796; Term 2 AED 23,846; Term 3 AED 23,846.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Tuition fees must be paid in advance, either annually (single payment) or by term. Schools collect annual tuition in three instalments if paid by term. The instalment split is: Term 1 = 40% of annual tuition; Term 2 = 30%; Term 3 = 30%.
- For students enrolling during an academic year, tuition may be charged starting from the first day of the month of enrolment.
- Non‑payment consequences include potential loss of the student's place, withholding of school reports, references and/or examination results, and possible suspension or expulsion.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not offered; the school operates as a day school with the campus facilities and student services listed for day students.

Other costs and fees

- Uniforms: Uniforms are required and are available for purchase from the named supplier (Threads). A uniform guide is provided; uniform items and costs are purchased separately from the supplier.
- Transport: A school bus service is provided by the contracted operator (STS Group). Bus registration and route allocation are managed through the school/transport provider; bus fees are separate and payable via the online payment channel indicated by the school. Specific bus fees vary by route and must be arranged with the transport team.
- English language support (ELL): Students requiring additional English language learning may be charged for supplementary ELL classes.
- Sibling discounts: discounts apply for the 4th sibling (15%) and the 5th sibling and above (25%). Sibling and corporate discounts are not applicable to Nursery places; they apply from PKG to Grade 12.

Refund information

- Registration and re‑registration deposits are non‑refundable except in extenuating circumstances (for example relocation). Refunds are processed according to the school's refund schedule:
- Tuition paid prior to the academic year start is refundable subject to deduction of the registration/re‑registration fees.
- If a student is enrolled for two weeks or less, one month's fees are deducted on refund.
- If enrolled between two weeks and one month, two months' fees are deducted on refund.
- If enrolled for more than one month, the full term's fees will be deducted on refund.
- Refunds are calculated from the start of the term and the date of the official written withdrawal request. Refunds paid by credit card or online are returned to the card used; cash refunds are issued by cheque.

Fee payment options

- Accepted payment methods: cash, credit card, cheque (payable to GEMS International School, Al Khail), wire transfer, and direct online payment via the school's online payment portal. Bank account details (account name, account number, bank, IBAN and SWIFT) are provided for wire transfers in UAE Dirhams (AED). Parents are instructed to include the applicant name and enquiry number in wire transfer memos and to account for service fees so the school receives the full amount.

Important notes on deposits and deductions

- Registration deposits (10% for new students, 5% for returning students) are deductible from the total tuition payable for the year but are non‑refundable except in specified extenuating circumstances.
Academics

GEMS International School Al Khail teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
GIS is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme (DP), and the Career-related Programme (CP) for students aged 3 to 19. Kindergarten follows a blended IB PYP and Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) approach for ages 3 to 6. The Primary Years Programme serves children aged 6 to 11 with an inquiry-based, transdisciplinary curriculum. The Middle Years Programme covers ages 11 to 16 and includes a Centre of Excellence for Aviation, Aeronautics, and Space as part of its focus on STEAM. The Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme provide pre-university and career-related pathways for ages 16 to 19. GIS is located in Dubai Hills and is accredited by the International Baccalaureate.

Exam Results
For the Class of 2024, 100% of graduates gained university entry, with 91% achieving their first-choice offers. There were 602 university offers in total, averaging 8.25 offers per student. Scholarships awarded totaled USD 31.5 million. GIS graduates pursue higher education at universities in the UAE, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Netherlands, and Canada.

Higher Education Progression
Graduates pursue higher education at universities in the UAE, the UK, the US, the Netherlands, and Canada. The IB framework supports university preparation and global mobility, with strong university placements highlighted for the DP and CP cohorts. GIS notes ongoing university destinations as part of its KPI and communications about higher education outcomes.

Gifted and Talented
GIS welcomes students of all abilities and maintains a culture of inclusion, including explicit support for Students of Determination, English Language Learners (ELL), and More and Exceptionally Able (MEA) learners. The school uses a graduated Level 1–3 support model with tailored Student Profiles, ILPs (or GLPs), and, when needed, an Individualized Service Agreement (ISA). The Inclusion approach emphasizes early identification of needs, collaboration with families, and ongoing professional development for staff.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school integrates inquiry-based, international-minded learning that supports students' social and emotional growth through IB-aligned approaches and a global mindset.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Inclusion is part of the school's framework, with IB-style support embedded in its curriculum to address diverse learner needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English is the main language of instruction. Arabic, French, Spanish, and 58 additional languages are offered through the IB Diploma, with mother tongue options available where numbers permit.

Mental Wellbeing
The IB framework and school culture focus on developing well-rounded individuals, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and resilience.

Safeguarding
The school operates within GEMS Education's safeguarding and wellbeing practices as part of its IB World School framework.
Parent Experience

History
GIS opened in September 2013 as a premium IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, IB Diploma Programme, and IB Career-related Programme. It is part of the GEMS Education network. The campus is located in Dubai Hills, Dubai. Over its first decade the school expanded its multinational community and embraced digital learning through a BYOD programme and Digital Learning Coaches. GIS celebrated its 10th anniversary in October 2023; enrolment had grown to about 2,200 students since opening.

Community
GIS has a vibrant, multicultural community of students and staff from over 100 nationalities. The school hosts cultural and community events, including International Day, reflecting its diverse student body. The GIS community is further enriched by active parent involvement through GISPA, the school's parent association, which plays an ongoing role in school life.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
GISPA is the GEMS International School – Al Khail Parent Association, an official body that connects parents with school leadership. The GISPA committee is elected by parents to represent their interests and to act as the voice of the parent community. GISPA organizes a range of events and engagements throughout the year, including family activities, cultural events, and volunteering opportunities. Past examples include Spirit Week and Sports Days, illustrating ongoing parental involvement in school life. GISPA contributed to the school's 10th anniversary celebrations with activities and gifts as part of the programme. GISPA maintains a news blog and photo galleries to keep families informed and engaged.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The school is located in Dubai Hills Estate. It is an IB World School. The campus is designed to support learning, creativity, and personal growth with extensive outdoor spaces and specialist facilities for academics, sports, and the arts. Notable spaces include an Early Childhood Library, Senior Hub, Design Technology spaces, Space Lab, Robotics Lab, Flight Centre of Excellence, Science Lab, Indoor Sports Hall, Swimming Pool, Playground, and Outdoor Learning Spaces.

Sports Facilities
The school has an Indoor Sports Hall and a Swimming Pool for physical education and aquatic activities. Outdoor spaces support PE and team sports.

Academic Facilities
Academic facilities include specialist classrooms for science, technology, and the visual and performing arts, along with dedicated spaces such as Space Lab, Robotics Lab, Design Technology labs, and a Flight Centre of Excellence.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Extracurricular offerings include the Aviation Centre of Excellence (Flight Centre of Excellence) and related STEM activities, Robotics, and design technology projects; the campus provides spaces and labs that enable hands-on projects in aviation, robotics, and space exploration.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
GEMS International School, Al Khail, offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). The school opened in September 2013 as a premium IB World School and features an Aviation Centre of Excellence as part of its STEAM focus.

Arts & Creative
Kindergarten includes weekly Music, Art, Library, and PE. In the Diploma Programme, students study six subjects with options to take additional science or humanities instead of an Arts subject.

Cultural & Language
The IB promotes intercultural understanding and international mindedness. Communicators express ideas in multiple languages.

Social & Hobbies
The Primary Years Programme fosters inquiry-driven learning and transdisciplinary themes. The Career-related Programme Core includes Reflective Project and Community Engagement.

Community & Service
The Career-related Programme Core includes Reflective Project and Community Engagement, which connects students with service and community activities.

Leadership & Professional
The school is led by CEO/Principal Nevita Pandya MBE. There is an Exceptional Leadership Team described on the site.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The Curriculum Overview describes a holistic approach that includes wellbeing. The IB Learner Profile identifies 'Balanced' as a goal, emphasizing intellectual, physical, and emotional balance for personal wellbeing. Kindergarten provides outdoor play and integrated learning to support wellbeing.
Languages

Language Provision
The school includes English in the Kindergarten curriculum as part of integrated learning (Math, English, Science, and Social Studies). The IB framework emphasizes multilingual communication, with communicators expressing ideas in multiple languages.
Reputation

Accreditations
IB World School accreditation; the school is accredited by the International Baccalaureate (IB).
Admissions

Admissions
Step 1. Submit your enquiry through the Apply Now page to begin the application process. The submission initiates the admissions workflow and provides initial information about the applicant. This step helps GIS determine fit with the IB World School programmes offered.

Step 2. After you have completed the online application, you will receive an acknowledgement email containing the next steps sent to the address you provided. The email outlines the subsequent steps in the process. You should monitor your inbox for further instructions.

Step 3. After the acknowledgement, pay the Registration Fee of AED 500 plus VAT of 5%. This fee is non-refundable, non-transferable, and non-adjustable, and is required along with the requested documents to proceed with the registration process. The Registration Deposit is 10% of the total tuition fees and is deducted from the total tuition for the academic year; it is non-refundable. Submit the documents listed to the Registrar, including passport photos, birth certificates (in English), vaccination records, copies of passports for applicant and parents, and the Confidential Admissions Referral form; a Transfer Certificate is required later for enrollment.

Step 4. After completing Steps 1–3, the Registrar will contact you to set up a meeting for you and your child with a member of the Education Team. A placement test or assessment may be required as part of this process. The meeting assesses fit and discusses programme options for the child.

Step 5. Screening and Assessment. Students may be required to take an entrance test or assessment to determine suitability for the curriculum. Based on the assessment, a student may be offered a place, placed on the waiting list, or denied entry if the school cannot support the student's learning needs. Assessments are conducted by the school's faculty and-progress is evaluated as each child progresses.

Scholarships
Scholarships awarded totaled $31.5 million USD for the GEMS International School – Al Khail Class of 2024.

Waitlist
If places are not available, a student may be placed on the waiting list. The assessment and placement process can lead to an offer of a place, placement on the waiting list, or denial of entry.
School Events
The school has not added events
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