Welcome Message from the Head of School

It is my great pleasure to welcome you to GEMS American Academy – Abu Dhabi. At GAA, we are committed to “developing global citizens who have the confidence to pursue their dreams and impact the world, in a caring international learning community offering a rigorous, relevant, and holistic education.”

What distinguishes a GAA education is our commitment to developing a spirit in students that enables learning through project development to impact and improve humanity. We do this by building structures that support personalized and caring learning environments and by meaningfully knowing each of our students.

Teaching and learning at GAA offers students the opportunity to take ownership of the outcomes they are trying to achieve and to identify and develop the necessary skills that will enable them to assimilate and adapt to change throughout their lives.

At GAA, we believe in the benefits of a holistic education, where students are motivated to take part and contribute to campus life. Student expression, self-discovery, and perseverance are encouraged through participation in the visual and performing arts. Wellness, balance, and character development – like winning with humility and losing with dignity – are promoted through athletic competition. We create a sense of belonging through sharing and participating as active members of our community.

Achieving this ambitious mission requires the intentional effort of all members of the community. We are centered on building collaborative relationships, based on trust and open communication, while continuing to develop a school-wide definition of what it means to be student-centered in our instruction and relationships.

I cordially invite you to learn more about the GAA experience through the pages of this website, and I look forward to welcoming you to our campus to get a sense of the incredible kindness and talent displayed by our students.