International Academic School Dubai
Part of Athena Education, Secular, Founded 2006
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
Languages
International Academic School (IAS) is a private, WASC-accredited school in Al Warqa, Dubai, offering an American curriculum from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Established in 2006, it serves a diverse, multicultural student body of approximately 1,500 students.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school adopts a holistic view of education, aiming to ignite a passion for exploration, innovation, and global citizenship. It is committed to unlocking the unique potential of every child within a nurturing and inclusive environment that emphasizes emotional intelligence, resilience, and purpose. The school's values are rooted in the Islamic faith, which serves as a guiding light for the community.
Programmes
The school follows an American curriculum based on the State of California Content Standards, blended with the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum for Arabic and Islamic Studies. The academic program includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, alongside specialist subjects like Art, Physical Education, and ICT. In Grades 11 and 12, the school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including AP Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Calculus, Statistics, Computer Science, Psychology, and Language and Composition. A variety of career-readiness electives are available for students in Grades 10-12, covering subjects such as Business Studies, Accounting, Forensic Science, and Creative Writing.
Student support
Learning support
The school is an inclusive institution that provides dedicated support for students of determination. It employs a Head of Inclusion and maintains a specialized facility to provide personalized resources and support for learners with diverse needs. The school also offers support for students who study English as an Additional Language (EAL).
Frequently asked questions(4)
- What curriculum does International Academic School Dubai offer?
- International Academic School Dubai offers Advanced Placement.
- What accreditations does International Academic School Dubai hold?
- International Academic School Dubai holds accreditations including WASC.
- Is International Academic School Dubai co-educational?
- International Academic School Dubai is a co-ed school.
- Where is International Academic School Dubai located?
- International Academic School Dubai is an international school in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The school admits students of all nationalities and ethnicities throughout the year, subject to place availability. It welcomes students of determination, gifted and talented students, high achievers, and those transitioning from other curricula. Prospective families are encouraged to follow the formal admission process, which includes an enquiry form and school tour. A non-refundable registration fee of AED 525 is required for new students.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic calendar that includes the 2025-26 academic year. Families can access the specific academic diary and school timings through the school's official portal.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus in Al Warqa 1 features modern facilities designed to support 21st-century learning and accessibility, including wheelchair ramps at all entrances and access gates. Key facilities include a robotics lab, physics, chemistry, and biology labs, an ICT lab, and a main library. The school also provides a swimming pool, a multipurpose covered area for sports and assemblies, a canteen, a prayer room, and a green playground. A dedicated special needs facility is available to support students of determination.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a wide range of leadership and enrichment programs, including a Student Council, Sustainability Club, Model United Nations (MUN), and an Emirati Union. Students can participate in the IAS Football Club, Peer Mediation, and various ambassador roles such as Moral Ambassadors, Learning Ambassadors, and Junior Leaders for elementary and kindergarten students. These activities are designed to build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.


- Susanna ThomasPrincipal
As the principal of the International Academic School, Susanna Thomas leads the community with a focus on holistic education, academic excellence, and emotional intelligence. She is committed to the collective effort of "getting the best of every child" and nurturing the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
- Dr. Carol NoranAcademic Vice Principal
- Antonio Cardenas Jr.Administrative Vice Principal
- Mayra MariscalHead Of Curriculum And Assessment
- BASMA MOSTAFA MOHAMEDHead Of Inclusion
- Mohamed Issa Abd ElazimHead of Arabic (KG & Elementary)
- Michael ChristianAssessment Coordinator
- Christine ScottHead Of Primary
- Aligul Suhag BalochHOD Math
- Wajeeda ShaikhGuidance Counselor
- Roohie ShaikhHead of KG
- Basant Abd-El-HamidHOD Science
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Advanced Placement
WASC