Overview of Sports Offered (Primary & Secondary)

At DIA Emirates Hills, we deliver one of the region’s most expansive and inclusive school sports programmes, offering over 23 competitive sports across Primary and Secondary. In 2023-2024, we proudly fielded 165 teams (92 Secondary, 73 Primary) and engaged 1,899 student-athletes – a testament to the scale, depth, and diversity of our sports culture. We aim to achieve a record level of participation in 2024-2025, the current year, with registrations beginning by the end of June 2025.

Students represent the school in traditional team sports such as football, basketball, swimming, and netball, while also exploring emerging disciplines like fencing, water polo, triathlon, climbing, and sailing. Our broad development model also includes recreational and adventure activities such as yoga, cycling, skiing, and rock climbing, supporting physical literacy, wellbeing, and personal discovery.

From U8 to U19, all students—boys and girls—are guided through structured, age-appropriate developmental pathways that promote progression, participation, and performance. Whether striving for elite competition or enjoying sport for fitness and friendship, every child is included, encouraged, and given the opportunity to thrive through movement, connection, and lifelong learning.

DASSA, National, and International Leagues

At Dubai International Academy Emirates Hills, competitive sport is a cornerstone of our educational philosophy - developing not only athletic talent but also resilience, leadership, and school pride. Our students participate across all age groups in DASSA leagues, where 95% of our teams compete in the top-tier Performance Divisions. This consistent placement reflects the commitment of our coaches, the structure of our training programmes, and the passion and discipline of our student-athletes.

We are especially proud to announce that seven DIA EH students have been selected to represent the UAE in the prestigious DASSA Select Teams, chosen from 87 participating schools. This year, DIA EH contributes 2 girls and 1 boy in Basketball, 3 girls in Volleyball, and 1 girl in Football. As part of their elite journey, the DASSA Select Teams travelled to Hong Kong this year to compete internationally - an unforgettable opportunity that showcased our students’ talent on the global stage and deepened their experience of international sport and cultural exchange.

Beyond DASSA, our teams regularly qualify for championship rounds and proudly represent the school and the UAE in national and international events such as the World School Games, WSG Basketball in Valencia, and Cricket Tours in Sri Lanka and Malaysia. These experiences offer far more than competition - they inspire personal growth, foster global awareness, and build lasting memories that extend well beyond the scoreboard.

Fixtures, Training Schedules, and Team Selections

Training and fixtures at DIA Emirates Hills are purposefully structured to maximise development while maintaining academic balance. Sessions are scheduled before school, during PHE blocks, and after school, allowing for consistency without compromising learning. Each sports squad has two training sessions per week, which helps athletes build consistency, improve their skills more effectively, and stay engaged with their team. Fixtures are published and the start of each season, ensuring transparency and planning for students and families. Team selection is based on attitude, attendance, effort, and ability – with A, B, and C squads fielded in several age groups to offer appropriate challenge and opportunities for all. Trials are inclusive and well-communicated, while ongoing assessment enables flexible movement across teams. This structured approach to preparation and competition instils discipline and ownership, ensuring that students value commitment and understand the responsibility of representing their school. Open sports clubs are available for everyone to join, offering a fun and supportive environment to develop skills - perfect for those who didn’t make a team or simply want to enjoy playing recreationally.

Coaching Philosophy and Structure

Our coaching framework is grounded in passion, care, challenge, and consistency. With 51 dedicated coaches and external specialists supporting over 165 teams, students benefit from expert guidance in every sport. Many coaches are highly qualified, with national or international playing or coaching backgrounds, and participate in regular CPD to stay at the forefront of best practices. At DIA, we view coaches as mentors who teach more than just tactics - they develop leadership, respect, and teamwork. Our philosophy blends high expectations with emotional intelligence, creating a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to take risks, reflect, and improve. Our talent identification processes start at Year 3 and continue until Year 13. Whether coaching a beginner or an elite performer, our aim is always the same: to inspire progress, build confidence, and foster character through sport.

Sports Scholarship Programme

At DIA Emirates Hills, our Sports Scholarship Programme recognises and supports 32 outstanding student-athletes across both Primary and Secondary School. These scholarships are not limited to financial assistance - they offer a comprehensive development package that includes free coaching through our Sports Academies, access to professional development workshops, and bespoke CPD opportunities. Scholars receive structured mentorship, sport-specific training, and invitations to exclusive development sessions designed to elevate their performance and leadership capacity. The programme is tailored to nurture talent while balancing academic success, ensuring that our student-athletes are equipped with the tools, resources, and support necessary to thrive. Through this initiative, we reinforce our commitment to fostering excellence, honouring dedication, and providing every scholar with a platform to grow both within sport and in life.

Alumni and Talent Pathways

Our alumni have gone on to study and compete at top-tier global institutions, including Loughborough University, NYU, Boston College, UCLA, Boston College, and The University of Edinburgh. Many have transitioned into professional sport, coaching, sports science, or management, thanks to the strong foundations built at DIA EH. Our partnerships with local and national federations, professional clubs, and sport-specific academies help identify and support talent through federation-linked training and performance pathways. We also provide career talks, mentorship, and advisory services that help students map their future in sport. Whether aspiring to represent their country, gain a university scholarship, or build a career in health and fitness, DIA students are empowered to pursue their ambitions with confidence, guidance, and real opportunity.