Welcome to the
IB Diploma Programme
For highly motivated students, fostering intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth for future leaders.
About
IB Diploma Programme
The Diploma Programme (DP) is a curriculum framework designed by the International Baccalaureate (IB) for students in the last two years of secondary school. The programme is characterised by international-mindedness, university preparedness and service learning. These facets are combined with a sustained focus on thinking skills, academic writing and subject specific rigour. IB Diploma graduates leave GEMS World Academy - Dubai as mature, resilient, knowledgeable, principled and capable individuals, prepared for the challenges of studying at university and beyond.
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education with final examinations. It has been designed to address the intellectual, social, emotional and physical well-being of students. The programme, has gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities. The programme is designed for highly motivated students looking for a rigourous educational experience.
About our
IB Diploma Programme Coordinator
MS FARAH MAHMOUD
DP MATHEMATICS TEACHER / IBDP COORDINATOR
Farah joined our Secondary School last year as the Director of Learning for Mathematics and has recently taken on the role of IBDP Coordinator. With over 12 years of teaching and middle leadership experience in international schools across the UAE, she brings a proven track record of driving impactful change.
Before joining GWA, Farah served as Head of Mathematics and Progress Mentor, where she developed a strong interest in using student data to lead and promote high-quality teaching and learning within her department.
She holds a Bachelor's in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Isra University, a PGCE from the University of Nottingham, and an NPQSL. Farah has experience across IB, IGCSE, and IAL curricula, and extensive knowledge of inspection and accreditation frameworks.
She is passionate about technology and is eager to explore the role of AI in enhancing Maths education. Farah lives in Dubai with her husband and three children, and enjoys playing the keyboard, badminton, and discovering new cuisines.

Explore our
IBCP
Curriculum
The IB Diploma Programme (DP) is a rigorous two-year curriculum for senior students, focusing on international-mindedness, university readiness, and service learning. It develops critical thinking, academic writing, and subject knowledge, preparing graduates to be resilient, knowledgeable, and principled.
SUBJECTS
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS) is a core part of the IB DP, fostering growth, collaboration, and self-determination through diverse experiences. It provides balance, achievement, and enjoyment beyond academics.
SUBJECTS
Extended Essay (EE)
The Extended Essay, a core IB DP component, requires independent research in a 4,000-word paper. It builds research, analysis, and critical thinking skills while allowing students to explore a topic of interest.
SUBJECTS
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
Theory of Knowledge (TOK), a core IB DP component, challenges students to reflect on knowledge and its origins. It fosters critical thinking, cultural awareness, and real-world application across disciplines.
SUBJECT GROUPS
Language and Literature
This group develops students' linguistic and literary skills. At GWA Dubai, students can choose English Language and Literature (SL & HL) or a Self-Taught Language A SL, exploring literature in their native language.
SUBJECT GROUPS
Language Acquisition
Designed for students aiming to develop proficiency in a second language, this group offers Arabic, Spanish, French, or English options at various levels. Courses focus on communication and intercultural understanding.
SUBJECT GROUPS
Individuals and Societies
This group offers courses like Business Management, Global Politics, Economics, Psychology, and Environmental Systems & Societies, developing analytical skills for careers in business, law, and global affairs.
SUBJECT GROUPS
Sciences
This group offers Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Design Technology, Sports Science, Computer Science, and Environmental Systems & Societies SL & HL, fostering scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and practical skills.
SUBJECT GROUPS
Math Analysis and Maths Application
Students can choose between Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL & HL for theoretical maths, or Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations SL & HL, which focuses on real-world applications for various careers.
SUBJECT GROUPS
The Arts
This group encourages creative expression with Theatre Arts SL & HL, Music SL & HL, and Visual Arts SL & HL. Students explore artistic techniques, theory, and performance, fostering innovation and self-expression.
University
Destinations
Our students go on to study at some of the world’s leading universities with over 60% of our IBDP cohort being accepted to a Top 50 QS World University. These include University of Cambridge, Yale University, University of Oxford, Princeton University, London School of Economics, Australian National University, University of Edinburgh, New York University, Durham University and McGill University. All GEMS World Academy – Dubai students are accepted into one or more of their top three university choices.
Academic
Excellence
GEMS World Academy – Dubai is dedicated to academic excellence, fostering a culture of achievement and growth. Our passionate educators inspire students to strive for success, celebrate accomplishments, and build confidence. As an IB World School with a "Very Good" KHDA rating since 2015, we nurture intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for lifelong learning, preparing students for higher education and beyond. With a focus on personalised learning, we support each student’s unique strengths and ambitions, guiding them to reach their full potential. Our global perspective, enriched by diverse languages and cultures, empowers students to become innovative thinkers and responsible global citizens, ready to excel in an ever-evolving world.
Enrichment
Programmes
GEMS World Academy – Dubai has a comprehensive and active enrichment programme with the range of activities provided ensuring there is something to inspire and enrich every child, no matter whether they are sporty, musical, dramatic, thoughtful, competitive, curious, caring or creative. Students of all ages are encouraged to sign up to enrichment activities that excite and challenge them. The programme is diverse and offers opportunities across a multitude of disciplines including music, performing arts, sport, science, languages and public speaking.
Dedicated
DP Facilities
Our school offers world-class facilities that are designed to optimise and enhance the student learning experience. Among these is a dedicated space for our IBDP students, providing an environment where they can engage in collaborative projects and schoolwork. This facility fosters teamwork, independent thinking, and problem-solving skills, preparing students not only for academic success but also for a future where they can confidently work independently and lead in an ever-changing world.
frequently asked
questions
How many subjects do IB DP students need to study?
Full Diploma Programme students' study six subjects, three at the Higher Level and three at a Standard Level. Students must choose one subject from each of groups 1 to 5 (see the curriculum model), thus ensuring breadth of experience in languages, humanities, the experimental sciences and mathematics. The sixth subject may be an arts subject chosen from group 6, or the student may choose another subject from groups 1 to 5. Higher Level subjects include a range of modules to allow students to study the course in more detail and develop more specialised knowledge. In addition, students study the IB Core, which provides a unique opportunity for students to broaden their skills and experience.
What is the IB DP ‘Core’?
In addition to the six subjects (three at Standard Level and three at Higher Level), IB DP students complete three ‘Core’ requirements:
Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) – developing as global citizens by learning new skills, living healthy lifestyles and contributing to the local community.
Theory of Knowledge – reflecting critically on different ways of knowing and areas of knowledge.
Extended Essay – completing an extended piece of research-based writing, developing academic writing skills in preparation for undergraduate study.
How are IB DP students assessed?
Over the two-year teaching period, a variety of assessment methods are used at GEMS World Academy - Dubai to acknowledge both the content and the process of academic achievement. Final examinations in each subject take place in May of Grade 12. Students’ work is assessed by international teams of examiners, who are trained and monitored by the IBO. The marks awarded for each subject range from 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest). Students can also be awarded up to three additional points for their combined results on Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay. The full diploma is awarded to students who gain at least 24 points, and have satisfactory participation in Creativity, Action, and Service (CAS). The highest total that a Diploma Programme student can be awarded is 45 points. Students are assessed both internally and externally. The percentage of internal and external assessment varies from subject to subject.
What alternative pathways of study does the Academy have on offer for Grade 11 and 12 students?
Not all GEMS World Academy - Dubai students chose to take the full course load leading to a diploma. Instead, a student who does not satisfy the requirements of the full Diploma Programme, or who has elected to take fewer than six subjects, is awarded an IB Courses transcript for the examinations completed. Students who complete more than six subjects receive an extra certificate for the additional subject(s).
How do colleges and universities view the Diploma Programme?
The DP is internationally recognised as representing one of the highest standards in university preparatory education. In fact, more than 1,000 colleges and universities in North America have recognition policies on how they weigh it in admissions, advanced standing, college credit and scholarships. GEMS World Academy - Dubai graduates have attended universities such as Duke, Oxford, Delft, Cambridge, Bocconi, University of Toronto, UCL, Kings, McGill, Imperial College, ETH Zurich and many more.
A list of colleges and universities that grant credit, scholarships and/or advanced standing for DP diplomas and certificates is available at www.ibo.org.