
Dubai Heights Academy
Secular, Founded 2017
Updated July 2026
Languages
Dubai Heights Academy is a progressive, KHDA-rated 'Very Good' British curriculum school located in Al Barsha South, Dubai, serving students from FS1 to Year 12. It is distinguished by its exclusive partnerships, including an AI curriculum developed with MIT and a golfing partnership with the Tommy Fleetwood Academy.
Teaching approach
Guided by the ethos 'Every Child, Every Mind, Everybody Matters,' the school prioritizes a holistic approach to education that balances academic excellence with character development. It fosters an inclusive, community-focused environment that integrates British and Islamic values while celebrating the diversity of its 90 nationalities. The school aims to nurture knowledgeable, innovative leaders and global citizens.
Programmes
The school follows the National Curriculum of England, offering a broad and balanced education from Foundation Stage to Sixth Form. The Foundation Stage utilizes the Development Matters framework, while the Sixth Form provides two distinct pathways: traditional A-Levels and vocational BTEC qualifications. Additionally, the school integrates an exclusive AI curriculum designed in collaboration with MIT and offers Ministry of Education subjects.
Outcomes
The school is KHDA-rated 'Very Good' and focuses on preparing students for university, employment, or entrepreneurship. Sixth Form students have achieved high performance in GCSE and A-Level examinations. Graduates are supported by expert career guidance and industry partnerships to ensure they are prepared for future challenges.
Student support
Learning support
The school emphasizes inclusivity and wellbeing, operating as a 'one staff school' that supports students of all backgrounds and abilities. The Inclusion Team, led by a dedicated Head of Inclusion, provides support for students with various special educational needs and disabilities, including Autism, ADHD, and hearing impairment. The school also offers support for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners and enrichment programs for students identified as Gifted and Talented.
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does Dubai Heights Academy offer?
- Dubai Heights Academy offers National Curriculum (England), British EYFS, IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- What accreditations does Dubai Heights Academy hold?
- Dubai Heights Academy holds accreditations including COBIS and IB.
- Is Dubai Heights Academy co-educational?
- Dubai Heights Academy is a co-ed school.
- Where is Dubai Heights Academy located?
- Dubai Heights Academy is an international school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The school provides a guided admissions process from initial enquiry to application. Prospective families can book tours Monday through Friday starting at 9:00 AM. The school utilizes an age calculator and provides information on transfer certificates and fees, which range from AED 35,000 to AED 70,000 with available discounts and flexible payment plans.
Calendar
The school maintains an online calendar detailing events, holidays, and important dates throughout the academic year. Term dates and specific event details are accessible to the community via the school's website.
Facilities
About the campus
The 292,000 sq.ft. campus in Al Barsha South features three purpose-built buildings with specialized learning spaces. Facilities include multiple science and computer laboratories, art and design technology labs (including food technology, ceramics, textiles, and robotics), drama studios, music rooms, and libraries. Sports facilities comprise three temperature-regulated swimming pools, a full-sized football pitch, multiple sports halls, and a rooftop multipurpose court for basketball, netball, and tennis. The primary section includes an Enrichment Zone with sensory and play rooms, while the secondary building offers flexible, modern learning environments.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a range of Enrichment activities and Extra-Curricular Activities (ECAs). Notable programs include a Football Academy and a unique golfing partnership with the Tommy Fleetwood Academy. Students also participate in activities that foster teamwork, confidence, and resilience.

Alison LambPrincipalAlison is an established school leader with more than 22 years of successful headship in the UK and internationally. Since 2019, she has served as Principal of Dubai Heights Academy, where she has led the school to a 'Very Good' KHDA inspection rating. She is also a PENTA trained British School Overseas inspector and has worked as an executive committee member for British Schools in the Middle East (BSME).
Rob HitchingsVice PrincipalRob has 28 years of experience in UK and international educational settings, including for-profit, non-profit, and government institutions. He is passionate about the intersection of education and technology, advocating for its use to empower educators and students. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Geography and Geology, a PGCE, and a Master's degree in Information Communications Technology and Education from Leeds University.
Kenneth LyonHead of PrimaryKenneth has over 11 years of senior leadership experience in primary and whole school settings, including roles as Assistant Head, Deputy Head, and Head of Primary at a leading British curriculum school in Dubai. He is committed to placing student needs at the center of decision-making and believes in empowering leaders at all levels.
Scott GoldsteinHead of SecondaryScott has spent the last 10 years in senior leadership roles in British Curriculum schools across London and the UAE, including a previous role as Whole School Principal. He holds the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) and is passionate about improving school effectiveness and educational outcomes.
Terrie SpencerHead of InclusionTerrie has extensive experience in leadership and teaching across various school settings in the UAE and UK, including mainstream and specialist schools. She holds a Master of Education in Special Education Needs with distinction, PENTA accreditation, and is a qualified neuro-developmental therapist. She is a member of professional bodies including The British Psychological Society.
Shahenda AhmedHead of Ministry of Education SubjectsShahenda is an accomplished educational leader with over 15 years of experience in teaching and leadership. She holds a bachelor's degree in Arabic Language and Literature from the University of Jordan and is dedicated to mentoring teachers and implementing innovative strategies to enhance Arabic language education.
Katie StatonAssistant Head of Primary and Head of Early YearsKatie has over 20 years of teaching experience, including more than a decade in Senior Leadership at an independent school in the North of England. She has a strong track record of raising academic standards and mentoring educators.
Matt CrazeAssistant Head of PrimaryMatt has over 10 years of experience as a class teacher and eight years leading Maths across the UK and UAE. He recently completed his National Professional Qualification in Senior Leadership (NPQSL) and is committed to enriching children's experiences both inside and outside the classroom.
Shazia ChoudhryHead of Key Stage 4/5Shazia has 12 years of experience in education, with a strong foundation in both classroom teaching and leadership. She is a Teacher of Psychology and has seen her students achieve the highest grades in the UAE and Middle East at both GCSE and A-Level.
Paul BegleyHead of Key Stage 3Paul has been leading the Secondary English department at Dubai Heights Academy for five years and has recently taken on the role of Head of Key Stage 3. He studied English and Politics at Queen's University in Belfast and completed his PGCE at Birmingham City University.
- Paul KingDirector of Sports
Paul has 11 years of teaching experience, 10 of which were in the UAE, and is a founding staff member of Dubai Heights Academy. He holds a Sport and Exercise Science degree, a PGCE, and an MBA with a focus on Educational Leadership. He is also a member of the DASSA Executive Committee.
Abdullah Bin SulayemCEO, Seven TidesAbdulla is the CEO of Seven Tides, a Dubai-based property development and holding company established in 2004.
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National Curriculum (England)
IGCSE
COBIS
IB