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.
The academy also facilitates parents who want to tour the school’s facilities. Those interested can book their visit online via the official Dubai International Academy website or call the school.
- Address: First Al Khail Street, Emirates Hills.
- Fees: AED 43,946 to AED 77,866
- KHDA Rating: Outstanding
- Contact: +971-4-368-4111
NORTH LONDON COLLEGIATE SCHOOL DUBAI
North London Collegiate Dubai is a highly regarded educational institution providing a superior academic experience by implementing the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. The school’s dedication to excellence has resulted in consistently outstanding academic achievements. NLCS Dubai also values personal growth and character development.
As an authorised IB World School, NLCS Dubai follows a challenging academic curriculum emphasising critical thinking, international-mindedness and comprehensive development. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is well-known for preparing students to succeed in higher education and beyond. The school’s Middle Years Programme (MYP) encourages exploration and inquiry-based learning, developing essential skills for success in the 21st century.
NLCS Dubai recognises the importance of nurturing individual talents and interests and provides a variety of extracurricular activities to accommodate every student’s unique abilities. Students have achieved excellent IBDP results, with an average score of 49 points.
At NLCS Dubai, every student is respected and supported as an individual. The experienced and dedicated teachers are committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, ensuring that each student reaches their full potential.
- Address: Nad Al Sheba, Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum City (MBR City)
- Fees: From AED 89,629 to AED 140,382
- KHDA rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-319-0888
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 42,330 to AED 89,730
- 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.
Another notable activity organised by the school is the Week Without Walls programme, which trains students to become more internationally minded and better global citizens.
- Location: Al Barsha South
- Fees: AED 42,271 to AED 120,608
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-373-6373
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 94,126
- 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 30,430 to AED 76,620
- 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 134,574
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-375-0600
EMIRATES INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL JUMEIRAH
Like most IB curriculum schools in Dubai, Emirates International School Jumeirah focuses on the academic as well as the physical well-being of students. The curriculum stresses knowledge acquisition and active learning.
EIS Jumeirah is one of the top IB schools in Dubai, which offers all IB programmes: IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), IB Diploma Programme (DP) as well a Career-related Programme for FS 1 to Grade 13. EIS Jumeirah’s sister school in The Meadows also offers the IB curriculum in Dubai.
The massive campus has a lot of green spaces. After school, students can compete in football, basketball, athletics, tennis and netball. Co-curricular activities include journalism, performing arts, language club and World Scholars Competition.
- Location: Al Thanya Street, Umm Al Sheif, Jumeirah
- Fees: AED 37,749 to AED 79,992
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-348-9804
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 33,680 to AED 80,960
- KHDA Rating: Very Good
- Contact: +971-4-885-6600
GEMS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL – AL KHAIL
GEMS International School in Al Khail (GIS) is an accredited IB educational institute in Dubai. Their primary focus is to develop children into lifelong learners and contributors to society. Students can pursue the Primary Years Programme, the Middle Years Programme, the IB Diploma Programme and the Career-related Programme at this school.
The well-designed campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including a swimming pool, football pitches, play areas, multiple sporting facilities, music rooms and laboratories.
Furthermore, field trips are part of school activities at GIS. Students undertake regular visits to historic buildings and museums.
- Location: Dubai Hills, Near Al Khail Road (E44)
- Fees: AED 49,914 to AED 75,695
- KHDA Rating: Good
- Contact: +971-4-339-6200
DAR AL MAREFA SCHOOL
Another well-reputed IB school in Dubai is the Dar Al Marefa School. The school is located in Al Khawaneej and offers bi-lingual IB programmes in English and Arabic from KG to Grade 12. Their courses equip students with crucial skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving. Students can access swimming pools, sports facilities, science labs, libraries, PE studios and a cafeteria.
- Location: 47th Street, Al Khawaneej 1
- Fees: AED 39,000 – AED 80,000
- KHDA Rating: Good
- Contact: 800-62-7332
This completes our list of IB schools in Dubai. However, some schools offer the IB curriculum in combination with the American and British curriculums.
Aside from international IB schools in Dubai, the following schools offer both British and IB curricula:
- Jumeirah English Speaking School
- GEMS Wellington International School
- Repton School
- Deira International School
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 ABOUT IB SCHOOLS IN DUBAI
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.
