The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, founded in Switzerland in 1968, has become one of the most esteemed systems of international education, now implemented in over 3,000 schools across 140 countries. Renowned for its student-centred approach, the IB emphasises creativity and critical thinking, preparing students for success in an ever-changing world.
With its globally recognised standards, the IB curriculum ensures accountability and fosters transferable skills sought after by prestigious universities worldwide. In recent years, many prestigious schools in Dubai have adopted the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, providing parents with multiple options for their children's education.
Top 10 IB Curriculum Schools in Dubai
Whether you're considering transitioning your child to an IB curriculum or simply seeking the best IB school in Dubai, we've curated a list of the top 10 IB Schools in the city, to help you with your options. These institutions are renowned for their commitment to excellence in delivering the IB programme, ensuring a high-quality education for students.
North London Collegiate School Dubai
North London Collegiate School Dubai, a branch of the renowned UK institution, offers a rigorous IB curriculum from Pre-KG to Grade 12, nurturing intellectual curiosity and global awareness. With impressive academic results and a commitment to holistic education, NLCS Dubai provides a supportive environment for students to thrive.
Admission is competitive, and the school provides both day and boarding options, offering outstanding facilities and a wide array of extracurricular activities. Recognised for its academic excellence, diverse opportunities, and strong sense of community, NLCS Dubai stands as a top choice for families seeking a world-class education and one of the best IB schools in Dubai.
Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches
Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS), Arabian Ranches, an extension of the Jumeirah English Speaking School in Al Safa, was established in 2005. Serving students aged 3 to 18, JESS Arabian Ranches offers a comprehensive education following the National Curriculum of England. With a diverse student body of over 1,400 from 60 nationalities, the school still ensures individual attention with a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:12.
Consistently achieving an 'Outstanding' rating from the KHDA, JESS Arabian Ranches provides a British curriculum from Foundation Stages to Sixth Form, preparing students for GCSE, IGCSE, and IB Diploma examinations. Admissions are facilitated through a debenture system, with a focus on English fluency and inclusivity. JESS is not only one of the best IB schools but also one of the best schools in Dubai.
The expansive nine-acre campus features top-notch facilities, including music and sports amenities, reflecting the school's commitment to holistic development. With a strong emphasis on character-building and a track record of excellence, JESS Arabian Ranches stands as a premier choice for quality education in Dubai.
Nord Anglia International School Dubai
Nord Anglia International School Dubai (NAS Dubai), part of the Nord Anglia Education Group, offers the National Curriculum of England and Wales up to Year 11 and the IB Diploma for post-16 students. With a focus on arts, music, drama, and sports, NAS Dubai has gained popularity since its establishment in 2014, known for its nurturing approach and excellent curriculum.
NAS Dubai excels academically, with students surpassing global and UAE IB score averages in May 2023, boasting a 34.1 points score and a 93% pass rate. Admissions are inclusive, with assessments ensuring support for all students, including those designated as students of Determination. The school's impressive facilities and strong arts, music, drama, and sports programs enrich the educational experience.
As part of a global network, NAS Dubai offers opportunities for international study and features collaborations with institutions like MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) to enhance its STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, & Mathematics ) curriculum. With a focus on personalised learning, NAS Dubai empowers students to achieve their full potential, making it a top choice for IB curriculum schools in Dubai.
Dubai International Academy
Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills, one of Dubai's oldest and best IB schools, offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). A highly reputed school, DIA has a high average IB score of 37.3, with numerous students achieving scores of 40 and above, including a perfect 45. Admissions are competitive, as the school seeks motivated students aligned with the school's values.
DIA's nurturing environment fosters 21st-century skills like problem-solving and critical thinking. With a wide range of facilities and extracurricular activities, DIA ensures a stimulating and engaging education platform for its students. Additionally, DIA integrates technology into learning, offering personalised learning experiences to help students explore and develop holistically.
GEMS Modern Academy
GEMS Modern Academy provides a rigorous academic environment with a curriculum that includes the IB Diploma, fostering critical thinking and global awareness. The school's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in impressive results and university placements. Admission is quite competitive, and the selection process is designed to identify students who will thrive in the school’s challenging academic environment. With state-of-the-art sports and arts facilities, plus a wide range of extracurricular activities, GEMS Modern Academy promotes a well-rounded education. Its reputation, innovative curriculum, and support for students with diverse needs make it a standout choice among Dubai's IB schools.
Repton School Dubai
Part of the Repton Family of Schools, Repton School Dubai, has a reputation for excellence in academics. The school provides a robust academic environment, offering the English National Curriculum and the IB Diploma Program. The aim here is to encourage and recruit students who are inquisitive, confident, and disciplined. Its strong academic record, averaging 36 points in IB exams, reflects its commitment to offering a fantastic learning environment.
Competitive admissions ensure a diverse student body benefits from Repton's well-rounded education and exceptional facilities. From expansive playing fields to Hogwarts-like buildings, Repton Dubai offers a unique educational experience, complemented by boarding facilities and a rich array of extracurricular activities.
GEMS Wellington International School
Catering to over 3000 students, GEMS Wellington International School is a trusted school that offers British and IB curriculum. Renowned for academic excellence, the school boasts impressive GCSE and IB results, emphasising critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.
Checking of academic records, followed by interviews, and entrance tests, is the selection process for admission to this school. The school provides state-of-the-art facilities, including indoor swimming pools and science labs, prioritising holistic development. Its commitment to technology integration and inclusive education fosters global awareness and understanding, enhancing the student experience.
Emirates International Private School
Emirates International School, situated in The Meadows, offers the International Baccalaureate program from FS1 to Year 13. Established in 2005 under the Al Habtoor Group, it features a diverse student body from over 81 nationalities. With a dedicated academic team, the school promotes excellence, preparing students to be globally-minded citizens.
State-of-the-art facilities include sports fields, swimming pools, libraries, and IT suites. The IB curriculum fosters critical thinking and social responsibility, ensuring academic success at all levels. From PYP to MYP and DP, students engage in a range of extracurricular activities, nurturing a well-rounded development and preparing them for the challenges ahead.
Raffles World Academy
Raffles World Academy in Umm Suqeim offers the full International Baccalaureate continuum from KG to Grade 12. With a vast campus and top-notch facilities, the school prioritises personalised education. The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) sets a strong foundation, leading seamlessly to the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). Graduates excel in critical thinking and real-world application. Extracurriculars, ranging from sports to arts, enrich the student experience, ensuring holistic development.
The school emphasises character development, encouraging students to become compassionate, responsible global citizens. With a diverse and inclusive community, students learn to respect and appreciate different cultures and perspectives. Through a combination of rigorous academics, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive learning environment, Raffles World Academy prepares students to thrive in an ever-changing world.
GEMS World Academy
GEMS World Academy stands out for its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, where students from over 90 nationalities come together to learn and grow. With a passionate and dedicated international staff, the school encourages students to be active learners and global citizens. The school's state-of-the-art facilities, including a 50m Olympic-sized swimming pool, advanced science labs, and a music recording studio, provide students with ample opportunities to explore their interests and talents. Through the IB programs, GEMS World Academy prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world, fostering inquisitiveness, thoughtfulness, and a desire to make a positive impact.
The International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum offers a multitude of benefits for students, making it a highly sought-after educational pathway. Offering a holistic approach to education while promoting critical thinking and a focus on global perspectives along with rigorous academic standards, IB schools in Dubai provide an enriching learning environment for students.
By fostering inquiry-based learning, creativity, and developing interpersonal skills, the IB programme prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. As you explore the best IB schools in Dubai, consider the unique advantages that the IB curriculum offers in shaping well-rounded, globally-minded individuals poised for future success.
