Pave your child’s future with popular IB schools in Dubai
Each academic system has its merits, and it is about choosing the one that best suits your child’s future goals. One of the increasingly popular curriculums is the International Baccalaureate (IB), a unique education program for students aged 3 to 19. If you are searching for the best IB schools in Dubai, here’s a list featuring the top ones with details regarding campus facilities, fees, location and KHDA ratings.
WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE EDUCATION SYSTEM?
International Baccalaureate (IB) is a comprehensive education framework for students aged 3 to 19. It is divided into four programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), IB Diploma and Career-related Programme.
The focus is on fostering critical and independent thinking in students. Pupils are encouraged to learn through inquiry and self-discovery. A good performance measure is the KHDA rating for IB schools in Dubai.
The IB curriculum is internationally recognised and particularly preferred by those targeting Ivy League universities. All IB schools in Dubai are closely monitored regarding educational practices and campus facilities. Moreover, as co-curricular activities are part of the curriculum, schools must ensure that sporting facilities are available.
So, which are the best IB schools in Dubai? Let’s find out.
BEST IB SCHOOLS IN DUBAI 2024
IB schools in Dubai are motivated to create a better world through education. There are many top schools in Dubai. However, the International Baccalaureate system has gained popularity in the emirate in the last decade.
Here is a list of IB curriculum schools in Dubai that offer the International Baccalaureate program.
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY – EMIRATES HILLS
Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills is one of the oldest IB schools in Dubai, offering a rich language and three IB programmes: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP).
The school functions on seven distinct facets that offer academic enrichment through mentoring, counselling for future studies and student development through teacher training. Through these functions, this IB school in Dubai tries to instil 21st-century skills such as problem-solving and critical thinking.
- Address: First Al Khail Street, Emirates Hills.
- Fees: AED 43,946 to AED 79,696
- KHDA Rating: Outstanding
- Contact: +971-4-368-4111
GEMS Wellington International School
As one of the top IB schools in Dubai, GEMS Wellington International School has created a legacy of excellence, achieving Outstanding ratings for 14 consecutive years. The school provides a comprehensive journey from FS1 to Year 13 under the International Baccalaureate curriculum.
Beyond academics, the school is an inclusive, dynamic environment where students are supported to explore their strengths and ambitions. Offering the IBCP, IBDP and IB Courses, learners regularly exceed local and international benchmarks.
- Address: Al Sufouh Area, Sheikh Zayed Road
- Fees: AED 46,436 to AED 103,399
- KHDA rating: Outstanding
- Contact: +971-4-307-3000
DEIRA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Deira International School, established in 2005, has earned a strong reputation for its inclusive and well-rounded approach to education. From FS1 to Grade 13, this one of the best schools in Deira, fosters a supportive environment where each student is encouraged to achieve their potential.
As one of the respected International Baccalaureate schools in Dubai, it offers both the IBDP and the IBCP, giving students access to globally recognised academic pathways. In addition, the school also offer National Curriculum of England and is accredited for Cambridge Assessment International Education (CIE).
- Address: Al Badia, Dubai Festival City
- Fees: AED 43,592 to AED 89,889
- KHDA rating: Outstanding
- Contact: +971-4-232-5552
JUMEIRA BACCALAUREATE SCHOOL (JBS)
Jumeira Baccalaureate School is part of Taaleem schools in Dubai. If you reside in Jumeirah and are looking for an IB school close to home, JBS may be the best choice. It is one of the most popular schools in Jumeirah and has a huge campus. Other benefits include 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.
Academics aside, JBS focuses on the well-rounded development of students. This is achieved via extra-curricular activities across various disciplines like academics, languages, performances and art. Furthermore, JBS graduates have received offers from top universities in the US, UK and Europe.
- Location: 53 B Street, Off Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1
- Fees: AED 62,727 to AED 96,300
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-344-6931
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. Over 2,000 students from 90 nationalities are enrolled here from Pre-KG to Grade 12. Modern facilities, experienced teachers and a keen focus on 21st-century skills make it an ideal place for learning.
The GEMS World Academy offers a GWA Nursery (Early Learners Centre), Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, IB Diploma and Career-related Programme to help prepare students for real-world challenges.
Students at GEMS World Academy can participate in various enrichment activities related to sports, performing and expressive arts, innovation, entrepreneurship, trips, events and social impact.
- Location: Al Barsha South
- Fees: AED 69,480 to AED 123,442
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-373-6372 (Senior School)| +971-4-373-6373 (Junior School)
RAFFLES WORLD ACADEMY
Established in 2008, this Dubai IB school helps students discover their potential. Raffles World Academy hosts impressive extra-curricular activities on their 30,000 sq.m. campus, which is home to several sports facilities, laboratories, art rooms and dance and music studios.
The Raffles World Academy is part of Innoventures Education, meaning its academic decision-making is parent-centric. Furthermore, students can take advantage of sports scholarships.
RWA is also good for parents looking for relatively affordable IB schools in Dubai.
- Location: Al Marcup Street, Umm Suqeim 3
- Fees: AED 32,774 to AED 93,922
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-427-1300
UPTOWN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
For Mirdif residents, Uptown International School is among the top International Baccalaureate schools in Dubai close to home. It caters to students from KG to Grade 12.
The Uptown International School encourages students to participate in various sports, art and live performances. This is possible via an enrichment programme that runs across three terms. Examples include TEDx Youth, Model United Nations, French DELF, gymnastics, material arts, football, Lego robotics, Arabic poetry, coding and more.
- Location: Corner of Tripoli Street and Algeria Road
- Fees: AED 38,044 to AED 96,461
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-251-5001
SWISS INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC SCHOOL
Swiss International Scientific School (SISD) is an IB board school in Dubai that focuses on cultural aspects of work and enhancing problem-solving skills. The school currently has students from around 68 different nationalities.
It is one of the few boarding schools in Dubai offering the International Baccalaureate framework from Pre-KG to Grade 12.
The eco-friendly campus has many sporting facilities and a well-planned curriculum to enhance students’ cognitive development. The trained workforce conducts research-backed exercises to ensure quality education for all age groups.
There are also two fully equipped clinics and the medical staff carries out regular health awareness campaigns. All in all, the academy deserves a place among Dubai’s best IB schools.
- Location: Dubai Healthcare City, Phase 2, Al Jaddaf
- Fees: AED 67,287 to AED 137,736
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-375-0600
GREENFIELD INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
Greenfield International School is another alternative for parents searching for affordable IB schools in Dubai. It is one of the Taaleem schools offering all four IB programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP) and Career-related Programme (CP).
The curriculum focuses on developing caring global citizens. Students have the opportunity to learn Arabic, French and German as well.
Exceptional facilities and a rigorous staff training program ensure quality and a well-rounded education from KG 1 to Grade 12. Students can participate in activities like cricket, football, swimming, martial arts, rugby, table tennis, volleyball, music, computer club, dance and public speaking.
- Location: Dubai Investments Park
- Fees: AED 34,286 to AED 89,192
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-885-6600
This completes our top IB schools in Dubai list. For parents interested in institutions offering both the British and IB curriculum, the following options stand out:
- Jumeirah English Speaking School
- Sunmarke School FZE
- Dubai Heights Academy
If you are looking for American and IB curriculum schools in Dubai, here are some of the top ones:
- Collegiate American School
- GEMS Dubai American Academy
- Universal American School
FAQs
What extracurricular activities are available at IB schools in Dubai?
IB schools in Dubai offer a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities that complement academic learning. Students can jump into sports, illuminate the stage with music, dance, drama or stretch their minds with clubs like robotics, coding, public speaking and learning languages.
Where can I find Innoventure schools in the emirate?
Are you looking for schools from Innoventures? Innoventures Education offers courses that prepare students for tomorrow’s world. The Innoventures schools in Dubai include Raffles International School (RIS), Collegiate American School and Raffles World Academy.
Which schools offer an American curriculum in Dubai?
Aside from the institutes mentioned above, parents searching for a school that offers US-based curriculums also have plenty of options. Your choices include Mirdif American School, Greenwood International School and other American schools in Dubai.
Are there any Taleem schools in Dubai?
Yes, there are many fabulous Taleem schools in Dubai. These schools offer British, American and IB curricula. Some top ones are the Dubai British Foundation, the American Academy for Girls (AAG) and Greenfield International School.
While IB has gained acceptance in the education industry in the last decade, many parents still prefer traditional curriculums. For example, British expats prefer British curriculum schools in Dubai.
That is all we have for you regarding the best IB schools in Dubai. Those who live in the capital may also consider IB schools in Abu Dhabi for their children.
