Several schools in the United Arab Emirates are celebrating high results as the first outcomes of the May 2026 International Baccalaureate (IB) exams begin to arrive this evening. Students demonstrated success significantly exceeding the global average, with some institutions reporting perfect scores and numerous other outstanding achievements.
Access to Results and Achievements
Students who took the IB exams in May 2026 will be able to view their results through the official IB candidate portal starting at 12:00 GMT (16:00 UAE time) on Monday, July 6th. Innovative educational institutions (Innoventures Education) reported the successful performance of Dubai International Academy – Emirates Hills, Dubai International Academy – Al Barsha, and Raffles World Academy. The Class of 2026 achieved a one hundred percent pass rate, an average score of 35.8 points, secured over $15 million in university scholarships, and received offers from leading global universities.
Outstanding Student Successes
Among this year's special achievements, four students scored the maximum of 45 points, which is rare as this result is achieved by less than 0.1 percent of IB candidates worldwide. Another six students received 44 points, and 60 students from the Innoventures Education cohort scored 40 points or higher. Graduates received invitations to many prestigious universities worldwide, including Cambridge University, Imperial College London, London School of Economics, King's College London, University of Edinburgh, Durham University, University of Leeds, University of Manchester, University of Pennsylvania, Brown University, McGill University, University of Texas, and others. These students plan to pursue degrees in fields such as medicine, engineering, economics, law, architecture, business, technology, and arts.
Leaders' Comments
Poonam Bodjani, CEO of Innoventures Education, noted that this year's results are a testament to the resilience, determination, and character of their students. She emphasized that they overcame difficulties with courage and became stronger, proving that success is built not only on academic ability but also on perseverance and dedication. She expressed immense pride in the Class of 2026 and anticipation for the significant contributions they will make to the world.
Students with Top Scores
Among this year's top students are Noor Al Hussaini, Kane Simpson, Adit Chandrani, and Arnav Jayaswal, who achieved a perfect score of 45 points. Noor Bilal Al Hussaini shared his feelings, saying that receiving the final IB results feels almost unreal after a long wait. He expressed relief and pride, recalling ordinary school days, laughter, challenges, and memories that made these years special, comparing it to closing a chapter of his life.
Kane Simpson mentioned that the IBDP was both challenging and rewarding, and he could not have managed without the support of the DIA community. He thanked his teachers and staff for the guidance that made this achievement possible. Adit Chandrani added that the IBDP was challenging but deeply enriching, and thanks to the dedicated teachers of DIA, strong support systems, and constant guidance, they were able to succeed and develop throughout the journey. Arnav Jayaswal recalled his journey, stating that the beginning and end of his IB journey at DIA gave him unforgettable memories both academically and personally.
Significance of Results Amidst Crisis
These results hold additional significance this year following the cancellation of final IB exams across the UAE and other Gulf states due to regional security issues related to the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. Instead, the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Education, awarded grades through its Non-Exam Contingency Measure (NECM)—a standardized system used when conducting exams is unsafe.
A Year of Resilience and Recognition
Richard Drew, Chairman of the IB UAE Association and Director of Jumeira Baccalaureate School, congratulated all IB Diploma Programme and Career-related Programme graduates in the UAE. He noted that the Class of 2026 demonstrated remarkable resilience, determination, and maturity throughout an academic year marked by serious regional difficulties. Despite unprecedented disruptions, students maintained their commitment to learning, embodying curiosity, compassion, critical thinking, and adaptability.
He added that this year, all IB schools in the UAE were supported through the IB Contingency Measure, introduced in response to conflict-related disruptions. The awarded grades are fully recognized as IB results, reflecting the rigorous quality assurance processes of the IB and its commitment to ensuring students can continue their education. Richard Drew concluded that these achievements are a tribute not only to the students but also to the exceptional dedication of teachers, coordinators, school principals, and support staff who worked tirelessly to maintain continuity of learning and support every student during this difficult period.
The Nature of Young People
Dino Varkey, CEO of GEMS Education, stressed that while academic excellence is important, these results speak to something deeper. They reflect young people of strong character, supported by exceptional educators and families who believe in the power of education to unlock potential. He congratulated the entire community on another outstanding year.
Lisa Krausby OBE, Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education, stated that exceptional academic results do not happen by chance. They are a reflection of students' hard work, their teachers' experience, the high expectations underpinning excellence in their schools, and a strong partnership with families that enables each student to achieve their best. She added that the International Baccalaureate is one of the most rigorous academic paths in the world, and they are very proud of how their students handled this challenge.
