Dubai International Academy opens as scheduled

The first day of school was attended by nearly 1,500 people (including parents and students). Easy introductions, a sense of overwhelming achievement for the members of the school board and excitement marked the first day as families toured the new state-of-the-art school premises.

"It is a momentous day for us. What began as an idea of excellence in education is now a reality. It's truly rewarding to see parents and children reiterating their delight in the school's facilities and its promise of enabling young minds to become global citizens," said Abdullah Majed Al Ghurair, Chairman of DIA.

"We are all so proud. We are thankful to the committed staff of Emaar Properties and their principal contractors, Jasaf Building who worked tirelessly to honour their promise of completing the construction on time. The first day of school is usually stressful for parents who have put their faith in a new school. However, here in DIA, we were rewarded with appreciative and congratulatory smiles from all parents," said Avi Bhojani, Managing Director, DIA.

Mr. Donavon Reinsmoen, Elementary School Principal, who was briefing the Elementary School parents and children said: "One of the primary things I would like to highlight about the school is its true 'internationalism'. Diversity in cultural background and religion will provide an environment that will foster growth and healthy competition. "

Mr. Reinsmoen ended the briefing by making the kids say 'Good Morning' in their respective languages. 'This is only the beginning' - an ecstatic Mr. Reinsmoen added.

School Director, Mr Clive Carthew welcomed the high school parents and students and introduced the entire high school faculty to a full house. Mr. Carthew, a former DY director General of International Baccalaureate organization, said: "DIA's key differentiator would be our concerted effort and drive in making our pupils happy, which would ensure happy parents and an environment conducive to quality knowledge acquisition."

Mr. Naveed and Ms. Hania, a couple from Pakistan said: "We are here because of the IBO Curriculum this academy has to offer. Having heard a lot about this course, we thought it would be quite nice to have our son study here", said Mr. Naveed.

His wife, Hania added, "It's really amazing to see over 500 students on first day of school itself. The faculty and staff are so warm and friendly. In fact our son Osman already loves this place, and is very excited and enthusiastic about the first day of school."

Mr. Andre and Sonette from South Africa, who had come to with their son Trista for the first day of school said: "It is very encouraging to see that a school has put in such effort to capture the true spirit of Dubai, of being a multicultural society. There is a sense of warmth and good cheer here. I'm sure this will be the best school in Dubai for Trista to be in."

Dubai International Academy, located at Emirates Hills, aspires to achieve and set, within the framework of the Geneva-based International Baccalaureate Organisation, world-class standards of education and an all round development. It has already acquired candidate status of the IBO for the PYP and MYP programmes , and endeavors to be the first school in the country to offer all the three IBO programmes (The Primary Years Programme PYP, the Middle Years Programme, MYP, Diploma Programme DP), thereby bringing the 'IBO World School' in the country.

The school has opened with a student body of more than 512 students from 54 nationalities. It features 60 classrooms, specialist rooms for music, art, dance, drama and language learning, fully equipped science and computer labs, networked libraries, climate controlled multi-purpose halls for a wide range of sports, swimming pools, playing fields, basketball and tennis courts, and a cafeteria in a vibrant and modern environment.