Dubai American Academy
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GEMS Dubai American Academy (DAA) is a private international school located in Al Barsha, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is operated by GEMS Education and offers an American curriculum along with Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs. Since 2011, it has been consistently rated “Outstanding” by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).[1]
History
Founded in 1998, the school initially operated from a smaller campus before relocating in 2017 following its merger with GEMS Nations Academy. The relocation to a purpose-built 70,000 m² facility in Al Barsha South marked a significant expansion.[2]
Accreditation and curriculum
DAA is accredited by the NEASC, CIS, and authorized by the IBO. Its curriculum is aligned with the Common Core and includes:
- Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
- American curriculum (Grades 1–10)
- International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12)
- Advanced Placement (AP) courses
Campus
The Al Barsha South campus includes:
- Olympic-size and training pools
- 400-meter athletics track and FIFA-standard pitch
- Indoor gyms, shaded playgrounds
- 600-seat performing arts theatre
- Arts, dance, music studios
- Science labs, innovation hubs, and maker spaces
- Cafeterias and central library
The facility emphasizes flexible learning spaces and environmental sustainability.[3]
Academic performance
DAA students perform above global averages in IB exams, with a recent average score of 35.4, compared to the global average of ~30.[4]
Extracurricular activities
DAA offers extensive programs in:
- Sports (DISA and ESSF leagues)
- Performing and visual arts
- Academic clubs (MUN, robotics, debate, coding)
Notable alumni
- Dina Shihabi – Actress known for Jack Ryan and Altered Carbon.[5]
- Johnny Boufarhat – Founder and former CEO of Hopin.[6]
- Alia Al Mansoori – Emirati student scientist whose project was sent to the International Space Station.[7]
- Omar Al Busaidy – Emirati entrepreneur and author.[8]
- Keyaan Nanjwani – Canadian entrepreneur and visionary. [9]
Awards and recognition
- Rated “Outstanding” by KHDA (multiple years)[10]
- Recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for technology integration[11]
See also
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References
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Template:Schools managed by GEMS Education Template:International schools in Dubai
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- International schools in Dubai
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- GEMS schools
- International Baccalaureate schools in the United Arab Emirates
- American international schools in the United Arab Emirates
- Private schools in the United Arab Emirates
- Educational institutions established in 1998
- 1998 establishments in the United Arab Emirates