8 minutes read
Rawan Haddad
Written by

Rawan Haddad

List of Top 10 Best IB Schools in Dubai [2025 Fees & Admission Dates Updated]

List of Top 10 Best IB Schools in Dubai [2025 Fees & Admission Dates Updated]

When it comes to your child's education, it's important to choose a curriculum that best suits their future goals. One of the increasingly popular curriculums is the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which is designed for students aged 3 to 19. If you are looking for the best IB schools in Dubai, here's a list of top choices with details regarding campus facilities, fees, location, and KHDA ratings.

What is the International Baccalaureate (IB) Education System?

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is a comprehensive education system that is divided into four programs:

  • Primary Years Programme (PYP),
  • Middle Years Programme (MYP),
  • IB Diploma, and
  • Career-Related Programme.

The goal of the IB is to inculcate critical and independent thinking amongst students, encouraging them to learn through inquiry and self-discovery. The IB curriculum is internationally recognized and is particularly preferred by those targeting Ivy League universities.

Top IB Schools in Dubai

Dubai is home to many top schools, but the International Baccalaureate system has gained popularity in the emirate in the last decade. Below are some of the best IB schools in Dubai that offer the International Baccalaureate program.

  • Dubai International Academy
  • Jumeira Baccalaureate School
  • GEMS World Academy
  • Raffles World Academy
  • Uptown International School
  • GEMS International School - Al Khail
  • Swiss International Scientific School
  • Dar Al Marefa School
  • Emirates International School Jumeirah
  • Greenfield International School

1. Dubai International Academy

Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is one of the oldest IB schools in Dubai, offering a rich language program and three IB programs: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP).

The school focuses on student development through mentoring, counseling, and teacher training. Through these functions, DIA encourages students to develop 21st-century skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking, which are necessary to operate and thrive in today's world. Prospective parents can book a tour of the school`s facilities online via the official Dubai International Academy website or by calling the school.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 35.0

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • The school boasts a “Future Skills Programme” focused on teaching transferable skills that children need in this rapidly changing society; including communication and collaboration, critical thinking and problem solving, adaptability and flexibility, creativity and innovation, leadership and emotional intelligence, digital literacy and technology skills, and lifelong learning.

Additional information:

  • Location: First Al Khail Street, Emirates Hills
  • Fees: AED 40.9k to AED 72.6k
  • KHDA Rating: Very Good
  • Contact: +971-4-368-4111

2. Jumeira Baccalaureate School

Jumeira Baccalaureate School is part of the Taaleem schools in Dubai and is a great choice for those residing in Jumeirah. The school boasts an extensive campus with state-of-the-art facilities, such as two rooftop tennis courts, padel courts, a FIFA-sized grass pitch, a rugby pitch, cricket nets, ICT labs, music studios, rehearsal rooms, and cafeterias.

The school focuses on the well-rounded development of students through extra-curricular activities across various disciplines, including academics, languages, performances, and art. JBS graduates have received offers from top universities in the US, UK, and Europe.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 31.5

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • Programme Francophone: A dedicated program for children whose native tongue is French.
  • Early Childhood Assistant (ECA) program to help children improve their confidence, knowledge, health, and well-being.

Additional information:

  • Location: Jumeirah 1
  • Fees: AED 39.7k to AED 84.1k
  • KHDA Rating: Very Good
  • Contact: +971-4-344-6931

3. GEMS World Academy

GEMS World Academy was established over a decade ago and has served as one of Dubai`s premier International Baccalaureate curriculum schools. The school has over 2,000 students from 90 nationalities enrolled from Pre-KG to Grade 12.

It focuses on the development of 21st-century skills and offers GWA Nursery (Early Learners Centre), Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, IB Diploma, and Career-related Programme to prepare students for real-world challenges. Students can participate in various enrichment activities related to sports, performing and expressive arts, innovation, entrepreneurship, trips, events, and social impact.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 32.0

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • Partnership with ESM, a sports management provider to provide activities such as sport, science, languages, media and art.
  • Music department comprising ensemble performance spaces, a green-screen video room, an industry standard recording studio and “live-room”, a video editing suite, a mac-lab dedicated to music technology, a black box drama theatre, and 12 small individual practice rooms all with a piano.

Additional information:

  • Location: Al Barsha South
  • Fees: AED 40k to AED 114k
  • KHDA Rating: Very Good
  • Contact: +971-4-373-6373

4. Raffles World Academy

Established in 2008, Raffles World Academy helps students discover their potential. It offers impressive extracurricular activities on its 30,000 sq.m. campus, which includes several sports facilities, laboratories, art rooms, dance, and music studios.

The school follows a parent-centric academic decision-making system, and students can take advantage of sports scholarships. RWA is a good choice for those looking for relatively affordable IB schools in Dubai.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 33.0

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • Mother tongue program which includes three hours per week where children learn their mother tongue. Languages include Russian, Spanish, French, German, Hindi and Italian.

Additional information:

  • Location: Umm Suqeim 3
  • Fees: AED 31k to AED 89k
  • KHDA Rating: Very Good
  • Contact: +971-4-427-1300

5. Uptown International School

Uptown International School is a great option for Mirdif residents who are looking for an IB school close to home. It caters to students from KG to Grade 12 and encourages them to participate in various sports, art, and live performances through its enrichment program that runs across three terms. Examples include TEDxYouth, Model United Nations, French DELF, gymnastics, martial arts, football, Lego robotics, Arabic poetry, coding, and more.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 33.0

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • IB Career-Related Program offering kids essential career development as well as transferable and life-long skills.
  • A Creativity, Activity, Service and Service Learning program which helps children improve their personal and interpersonal skills.

Additional information:

  • Location: Umm Suqeim 3
  • Fees: AED 40k to AED 73k
  • KHDA Rating: Very Good
  • Contact: +971-4-251-5001

6. GEMS International School - Al Khail

GEMS International School in Al Khail (GIS) is an accredited IB educational institute in Dubai. The school focuses on developing children into lifelong learners and contributors to society and offers the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, the IB Diploma Programme, and Career-related Programme.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 30.0
  • Top Schools Award for the Best School in the UAE for STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • Space Lab offering lessons in AI-infused robotics, driverless vehicles, and wearable haptics.
  • Flight simulator allowing students to explore the world of aviation in a safe and immersive environment.

Additional information:

  • Location: Near Al Khail Road (E44)
  • KHDA Rating: Good
  • Fees: AED 46.4k to AED 73.4k
  • Contact: +971-4-339-6200

7. Swiss International Scientific School

Swiss International Scientific School (SISD) is a prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) board school located in Dubai. Established with the goal of enabling students to reach their maximum potential, the school currently has students from 68 different nationalities.

The eco-friendly campus offers a wide range of sporting facilities and a carefully planned curriculum that encourages cognitive development. The staff is trained to provide research-backed exercises for students of all ages, as well as regular health awareness campaigns.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 33.2
  • Top Schools Index by Carfax Education 2024

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • Comprehensive extra-curricular programs that include physical, artistic, creative, cultural, or scientific activities.

Additional information:

  • Location: Dubai Healthcare City, Phase 2, Al Jaddaf
  • KHDA Rating: Good
  • Fees: AED 53k to AED 99k
  • Contact: +971-4-375-0600

8. Dar Al Marefa School

Dar Al Marefa School is another well-regarded IB school in Dubai. Located in Al Khawaneej, it offers bilingual programs in English and Arabic from KG to Grade 12. The courses focus on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The school has swimming pools, sports facilities, science labs, libraries, PE studios, and a cafeteria.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 31.0

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • Extracurricular Activity Programme which includes topics such as expressive arts, performance arts, language, design, artificial intelligence, robotics, calligraphy, Islamic cultures and sporting activities.

Additional information:

  • Location: Al Khawaneej 1
  • KHDA Rating: Good
  • Fees: AED 36,000 – AED 75,000
  • Contact: 800-627-332

9. Emirates International School Jumeirah

Emirates International School Jumeirah is one of the top IB schools in Dubai, offering all four IB programs: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). The school puts emphasis on academic and physical well-being, as well as knowledge acquisition and active learning.

The large campus also boasts a range of green spaces, and students can take part in after-school activities such as football, basketball, athletics, tennis, netball, journalism, performing arts, language club, and World Scholars Competition.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 32.0

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • Career Related Programme which helps children acquire knowledge, practical training, intellectual engagement, and international-mindedness.

Additional information

  • Location: Al Thanya Street, Umm Al Suqeim, Jumeirah
  • KHDA Rating: Good
  • Fees: AED 35k to AED 74k
  • Contact: +971-4-348-9804

10. Greenfield International School

Greenfield International School is an affordable IB school in Dubai, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP). The curriculum is designed to foster global citizenship.

Students have the chance to learn Arabic, French, and German, and participate in a variety of co-curricular activities such as cricket, football, swimming, martial arts, rugby, table tennis, volleyball, music, computer club, dance, and public speaking.

Academic Achievements:

  • IB Diploma Average Score of 33.0

Extracurricular Highlights:

  • ACE program (activity, creativity and enrichment): The activity part includes sports such as sports, football, basketball, swimming, athletics, rugby, cricket; the creativity part includes arts and music, school production, prop design, orchestra; and the enrichment part includes MUN, chess, book club, DP support classes.

Additional information

  • Location: Dubai Investments Park
  • KHDA Rating: Good
  • Fees: AED 31.7k to AED 76.3k
  • Contact: +971-4-885-6600
SchoolKHDA ratingFeesLocation
Dubai International AcademyVery GoodAED 40.9k to AED 72.6kEmirates Hills
Jumeira Baccalaureate SchoolVery GoodAED 39.7k to AED 84.1kJumeirah 1
GEMS World AcademyVery GoodAED 40k to AED 114kAl Barsha South
Raffles World AcademyVery GoodAED 31k to AED 89kUmm Suqeim 3
Uptown International SchoolVery GoodAED 40k to AED 73kUmm Suqeim 3
GEMS International School in Al Khail (GIS)GoodAED 46.4k to AED 73.4kAl Khail Road (E44)
Swiss International Scientific SchoolGoodAED 53k to AED 99kDubai Healthcare City, Phase 2, Al Jaddaf
Dar Al Marefa SchoolGoodAED 36k to AED 75kAl Khawaneej 1
Emirates International School JumeirahGoodAED 35k to AED 74kUmm Al Suqeim
Greenfield International SchoolGoodAED 31.7k to AED 76.3kDubai Investments Park

Final thoughts

For parents in the UAE looking for the best educational environment for their children, the options can be overwhelming. With the introduction of the International Baccalaureate (IB) system of education in the last decade, many schools in Dubai have adopted the curriculum. As a result, parents can find a variety of schools offering IB curriculums in the Emirate.

The list of IB schools in Dubai includes some of the most reputable international schools such as GEMS World Academy and Jumeirah International. However, some schools offer the IB curriculum in combination with other systems such as the British and American curriculums. For example, British expats may want to consider schools like GEMS Wellington International School and Repton School, both of which offer both British and IB curriculums.

Similarly, parents looking for an American-based curriculum combined with the IB system can check out schools like Collegiate American School, GEMS Dubai American Academy, and Universal American School. In addition, Innoventures Education offers courses tailored toward preparing students for the future. The list of Innoventures schools in Dubai includes Raffles International School (RIS), Collegiate American School, and Raffles World Academy.

Apart from the schools mentioned above, parents can also explore other options such as Mirdif American School, Greenwood International School, and other American schools in Dubai. With such a wide array of options, parents can find the perfect educational environment for their children.

To know more about the best Indian schools and nurseries in the UAE, stay tuned to Driven Properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What factors should I consider when choosing an IB school?

There are many factors to consider when choosing an IB school. These include accreditation, curriculum alignment, faculty qualifications, extracurricular offerings, and student support services. By aligning these factors with your vision for your children’s education, you will choose the right school for them.

2. Are IB schools in Dubai suitable for expatriate students?

IB schools in Dubai are ideal for expatriate students as many of them offer mother tongue enrichment classes. Additionally, these schools are known for their diversity which makes expat students feel more at ease and helps them learn about other cultures.3. What are the average tuition fees for IB schools in Dubai?

Currently, the cost of an IB school in Dubai averages AED 52,800 for kindergarten and AED 65,000 for primary school. The average tuition fee of a UK (English National Curriculum) school is AED 37,000 and AED 29,500 for an American (K12) school.

H4: 4. How do IB schools in Dubai prepare students for university?

IB schools in Dubai offer an IB Diploma Program, a worldwide recognized program, known for its academic rigor and comprehensive curriculum. This program provides students with the skillsets they need to apply and get accepted to the university of their choice.

5. How can I evaluate the quality of an IB school in Dubai?

To evaluate the quality of an IB school in Dubai, you can rely on their IB Diploma score, which should give you a fairly good idea on the education level of the school. You can also check their KHDA rating, to have a clearer idea on how they compare with other schools in the UAE.

Topics:
Other

The latest blogs, podcasts, and real estate insights

Popular Dubai Areas