I am delighted to introduce our new and exciting DIScovery Week, which brings together outdoor education, curriculum learning, and service opportunities. DIScovery week offers students a chance to fully immerse themselves in CAS, engage meaningfully with their surroundings, and invest in their personal growth and future.
As I present DIScovery Week, I am thrilled to share the global trips, local activities, and enriching experiences included in this brochure. Each opportunity has been carefully designed to inspire, challenge, and support the development of our young people. As you explore the following pages, you will
Welcome
discover an exceptional week of learning and personal development. This brochure provides an overview of all the international trips available, along with the administrative details, VISA guidance, and expectations for both parents and students.
If you require any further information, please feel free to contact the relevant member of staff or myself. We are always happy to support.
With excitement, Scarlett Keyworth
Whole School Assistant HeadteacherResponsible for the Student Experience
Dear Parent and Students,
At Deira International School, we believe that education is an adventure and one that shapes character, builds confidence, and inspires purpose.
Our new DIScovery Week is a celebration of that spirit: a week dedicated to exploration, teamwork, and service, designed to bring the Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) philosophy to life which is the very heart of an international education.
CAS isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about discovering who we are and how we can make a difference. Through DIScovery Week, students will step beyond the classroom, whether travelling internationally, engaging in local experiences, or contributing to in-school projects. It will challenge them to work with others, and serve their communities with integrity and compassion.
These experiences nurture curiosity, creativity, and courage. They remind us that learning happens everywhere in the laughter shared on a hike, the teamwork forged in service, and the pride felt when creating something new. CAS builds the resilience and empathy our students will
LETTER FROM THE HEADTEACHER
carry into university and into life. We want every student to embrace this opportunity wholeheartedly to take risks, to reflect, to connect, and to celebrate the joy of giving and growing. DIScovery Week is about unlocking potential, deepening friendships, and discovering the leader, thinker, and changemaker within each of us.
Thank you for your continued support as we make learning at DIS not just outstanding, but unforgettable.
With pride and encouragement,
Doug Pettitt Headteacher, Deira International School
PARENT ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
We ask you to be an integral part of the puzzle and support our inaugural DIScovery Week by:
▪ Reading, sharing, and discussing this brochure with your child.
▪ Support their decisions and encourage them to step outside of their comfort zone.
▪ Adhere to all deadlines from our Trip Co-Ordinator's ensuring that the relevant documentation is shared and completed in the given time frame.
▪ Disclose any health issues your child may be facing or have developed over time.
▪ Ensure all funding and fees are paid on time via the Zenda application.
▪ Obtain a VISA for your child with support from the school.
▪ Attending information sessions and Pre-departure Meetings to keep up to date.
▪ Engage with our social media platform; DISonTour to stay updated on the adventure from drop off to pick up
Financial Responsibility
Parents are responsible for funding their child’s DIScovery Week activity. The cost of each trip varies, due to location and the itinerary. You must also cover the cost of any special equipment required.
▪ The cost of on international trip will include –
▪ Flights
▪ Comprehensive travel insurance
▪ Accommodation
▪ All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
▪ Experienced and fully qualified expedition guides and team leaders
▪ Transfers and where applicable fully clean, sanitized air-conditioned vehicles
▪ Entrance fees to all sights
What is NOT included?
▪ Student VISA’s (parents’ responsibility)
▪ Vaccinations or PCR testing
▪ Spending money for souvenirs/gifts etc.
▪ Personal equipment and insurance excess
*Please note, all trips and expeditions are subject to change pending flight bookings, government announcements and the level of interest from our students.
The Process; a Step-by-Step Guide
All trips on offer will go through an administration process to ensure all students are on the right and relevant trip/activity for themselves.
1. Peruse the brochure as a family and select the international trip for your child. *
2. Complete the Expression of Interest Form online to register your child's interest on the selected trip. Choose ONE trip only.
I. From there, we will review each child carefully and look at the suitability of the trip and the educational outcomes. Most, and often, all students will be invited to book the trip of their choice, yet this may not always be possible if the trip has limited spaces and there are health and safety concerns.
3. Attend the DIScovery Week Coffee Morning for a QA session with Ms. Keyworth and Trip Co-Ordinator's.
4. When your child's place is confirmed, pay the required deposit payment to secure your child's place via Zenda.
5. START VISA applications if necessary.
6. Respond and make payment for the following instalments (each trip will vary, depending on cost and our travel companies).
7. Attend the Pre departure Meeting.
8. Pack and ‘Yallah’.
*If you decide as a family, your child will not travel as part of our 2026 DIScovery Week, please do not worry. We have many exciting opportunities in the UAE and on school site to keep the adventure and wonder alive.
Student Behaviour Expectations
On all local and global trips, students are expected to behave in a manner that represents the DIS Way. Positive and respectful interactions between students, staff, travel guides/representatives, and local people in the host country are essential.
Students have a responsibility to apply themselves and meet the DIS Way and behaviour standards at all times, displaying RESPECT, INTEGRITY, COLLABORATION and EXCELLENCE. Any behaviour that is challenged by an adult in charge may result in removal from the activity, a phone call home and if the behaviour compromises the safety of the group, immediate repatriation at the parent’s expense.
From the moment a student is enrolled on an international trip, they must:
▪ Attend all trip meetings
▪ Complete all registrations and documentation in a timely manner
▪ Respect all students and adults attending the trip
▪ Ensure G4S data is maintained to a high standard, including attendance, behaviour and punctuality.
▪ Follow all instructions from teachers, guides and adults, adhering to safety guidelines, lights out rules and phone policies
Student Eligibility
When a student expresses interest in a global trip, our Senior Leadership Team reviews the requirements below to ensure suitability and confirm that all behaviour standards have been met.
• Students must maintain a minimum of 94% attendance throughout the year.
• Maintain a positive punctuality record with no more than 10 lates recorded throughout the year.
• Consistently demonstrate positive behaviour in line with The DIS Way.
• Academic progress (particularly for GCSE and IB students)
• Positive conduct on previous local and global trips
NASA Space Camp – Turkey
24
June – 1 July 2026
For Year 7, 8 & 9 Students
Students have a responsibility to apply themselves and meet the DIS Way and behaviour standards at all times. Any behaviour that is challenged by an adult in charge may result in removal from the activity, a phone call home and if the behaviour compromises the safety of the group, immediate repatriation at the parent’s expense.
From the moment a student is enrolled on an international trip, they must:
• Attend all trip meetings
• Complete all registrations and documentation in a timely manner
• Respect all students and adults attending the trip
• Ensure G4S data is maintained to a high standard, including attendance, behaviour and punctuality.
• Follow all instructions from teachers, guides and adults, adhering to safety guidelines, lights out rules and phone policies.
Come join us as we live the life of an astronaut for 5 nights and 6 days.
Programme Highlights
Day 1 – Launch Day
• Arrival in Izmir, Space Camp orientation, and first astronaut missions:
• Apollo 15 Mission Simulation
• T-Chair Launch System Workshop
Evening: team science challenges and friendly competitions
Day 2 – Living & Working in Space
• Life in Space Workshop
• Satellite Communications
• 3D Printing Lab
Evening: Night Sky Observation with a 12-inch telescope
Day 3 – Mars Exploration
• Mars Rover Engineering Challenge
• Meteorology & Climate Lab
• Rocket Launch Programme
Evening: Planetarium experience in the Star Lab
Day 4 – Aurora Mission Simulation
• A fully immersive, multi-stage teamwork mission
• Evening activities: Space Station exploration, Hurricane 360 Simulator, Survival on Mars Team Challenge
• Guided visit to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the world
India Survival Camp and Volunteering Expedition –
Tirthan Valley
28 June – 3 July 2026
For Years 7, 8 and 9 ONLY
In partnership with Premium Choice Travel, we are excited to offer students a unique educational expedition to Tirthan Valley, a peaceful Himalayan region bordering the UNESCO Great Himalayan National Park. This programme blends volunteering, adventure, cultural learning, and leadership development in one unforgettable experience.
Students will stay in handcrafted eco-lodges and mountain camps, engage with local communities, contribute to environmental conservation, and explore the stunning landscapes of Northern India. This expedition has been designed to support students’ personal growth, global awareness, and appreciation for nature and sustainability.
Highlights of the Expedition
Volunteering & Community Engagement: Organic farming, agro-learning, and hands-on support at a local government school through beautification and cultural exchange.
Adventure & Outdoor Skills: Trekking inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site, river-crossing activity with trained instructors, waterfall hikes, tent-pitching, and mountain camping.
Environmental Responsibility: Trail-cleaning campaigns, eco-awareness sign installation, and exposure to Himalayan biodiversity.
Cultural Enrichment:
Traditional basket-weaving workshop with local artisans, storytelling sessions, and authentic village immersion.
Personal Development: Leadership activities, teamwork challenges, daily reflection circles, and opportunities for students to build resilience and independence.
Educational Focus
• Sustainability, eco-leadership, and environmental awareness
• Cultural exchange and global citizenship
Proposed Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival in Chandigarh → Scenic mountain transfer to Tirthan Valley → Orientation → Waterfall hike & trail clean-up. Day 2: Organic farming volunteering → Soil preparation, planting, and agro-learning → Reflection session.
Day 3: Visit to local government school → Cultural exchange & wall beautification → River-crossing adventure → Campfire reflections.
Day 4: Trek to UNESCO National Park → Tent-pitching → Nature learning on Himalayan ecology → Wood-fire pizza making & storytelling night under the stars.
Day 5: Basket-weaving workshop with local women → Experience-sharing ceremony & certificates.
Day 6: Return to Chandigarh → Flight back to Dubai.
Provisional Cost
AED 5,500 – AED 6,000 per student
• Team-building, problem-solving, and reflective learning
• Outdoor adventure skills and personal resilience This India expedition is ideal for students who enjoy outdoor learning and aspire to take on challenges such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in the future.
Trip Co-ordinator - mrahman@disdubai.ae
Sri Lanka Environmental Expedition
26 June – 1 July 2026
For Year 9, 10 and IB1 students
We are excited to offer students in Year 9, 10 and IB1 a unique opportunity to participate in the Sri Lanka Environmental Expedition Trip, a CAS-focused international experience in partnership with Trans World Educational Experiences (TWEDEX).
This 6-day trip is designed to support and promote students in completing the Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) component of the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) and the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) core.
This immersive experience blends community service, environmental sustainability, and physical activity, allowing students to gain valuable CAS hours while engaging with local communities, contributing to conservation efforts, and exploring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.
CAS Opportunities Include:
• Service: School renovation projects, turtle conservation volunteering, beach clean-ups.
• Activity: Surf instruction at Weligama Beach, forest hikes, beach volleyball tournament.
• Creativity: Cultural exploration through visits to Galle Fort, Tsunami Museum, and tea plantations.
Proposed Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Flight to Colombo, transfer to Southern Province, resort check-in
Day 2: Local school giveback (painting, reading, sports), cultural visits
Day 3: Surf lesson, tea plantation tour and shopping
Provisional cost – 9500 AED
Day 4: Mangrove boat tour, turtle conservation volunteering
Day 5: Forest hike, beach rescue and discovery mission
Day 6: Beach volleyball tournament, souvenir shopping, elephant spotting, flight home
Health and Medical Information
The health and safety of our students at DIS, both on campus and during local and global trips - is our highest priority. Please read the information below carefully.
What We Do to Ensure Safety
• Where possible, trips and host countries have been visited in advance by the Trip Coordinator as part of a site visit.
• Risk assessments have been completed in collaboration with the travel company, guides, and representatives.
• DIS staff and Trip Coordinators are First Aid trained.
• All locations have been reviewed and key factors have been incorporated into planning, including:
1. Disease and infection
2. Weather conditions
3. Proximity to hospitals and medical care
The Trip Coordinator carries a basic first-aid kit that has been carefully prepared by our on-site School Nurse and Doctor. This kit contains any necessary equipment suited to the travelling students, as well as basic items such as bandages, alcohol swabs, plasters, and a thermometer. These can be used to treat minor injuries, cuts, or falls.
Immunisations and Vaccinations
Families should consult their family doctor or physician regarding any recommended vaccinations for the trip destination. These recommendations may vary online. It is the responsibility of parents to stay informed and make the appropriate medical decisions for their child.
As a school, we do not assume responsibility for medical treatment advised for international travel.
We do NOT prescribe or administer medicine
Instructions for Personal Medications
Students are not allowed to carry their own medication, except for asthma inhalers or EpiPens. All other medication must meet the following requirements:
1. Medication must be placed safely in a zip-lock bag.
2. The medication must be clearly labelled with the student’s name.
3. Written instructions must be included, explaining when the medicine should be taken.
4. The medication must be handed to the teacher at the start of the trip.
5. No liquid medications are allowed.
If the Trip Coordinator does not teach or directly support your child in school, please contact them as soon as possible to explain the context of your child’s medical needs and care.
5 Safety Tips We Will Encourage During the Trip
1. Stay Hydrated – Safe drinking water will be available at all times. Staff will schedule water breaks and encourage students to drink regularly, especially in hot climates.
2. Wash Your Hands – Handwashing will be encouraged in busy cities and rural areas, supported by access to clean water, soap, or sanitizer where possible.
3. Sun Protection – A kit list will be provided before departure. All students should bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses as essential items.
4. Protect Your Feet – Suitable footwear must be worn at all times. Hiking boots are required for physical adventure trips; comfortable trainers for city tours. A full kit list will be provided by the Trip Coordinator.
5. Mosquitoes and Insects – Depending on the destination, students should use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and shorts when possible to prevent bites.
CULTURAL UNDERSTANDING
For student travel out of the UAE, each child is required to have –1. UAE residency and an in date Emirates ID (EID)
2. A passport that is valid for 6 months from the date of travel
Depending on nationality, VISA’s will be required for those students travelling internationally. As we are aware, depending on the passport you hold there can be differences in documentation requests, costs and length in processing time.
We strongly urge all parents to start VISA research as soon as you have decided on your international trip and pay the deposit. As a school, we can support all VISA applications with the documentation below.
- A school stamped and approved NOC
- Flight tickets
- Copy of the Travel Insurance Policy
- List of accompanying teachers
All requests for documents will need to be emailed to abegum@disdubai.ae Please ensure to attach student passport copy and Emirates ID.
The school will provide as much information as possible to support the VISA application and process; however, obtaining a VISA is ultimately the parents' responsibility.
DISCLAIMER
For students with multiple passports and annual VISA’s, it is up to you to decide which passport your child travels on –ensuring no problems are encountered on arrival in immigration. We cannot be held to account for any hold-ups or refusal of entry at any airport or port.
Barcelona Cultural Trip
28 June – 3 July 2026
For Year 11 ONLY
In collaboration with Trans World Educational Experiences (TWEdEx), we are delighted to offer a 5-night cultural and educational tour to Barcelona, Spain. TWEdEx are highly reputable providers who have beendelivering outstanding international learning experiences for schools for many years. We are confident that, together, we will provide a safe, enriching, and memorable trip for all students attending.
Our Barcelona Cultural Trip has been designed to give students a broad cultural experience, combining sport, history, language, food, art, and adventure. Throughout the week, students will engage in a variety of immersive activities. Ranging from iconic sightseeing and hands-on workshops to theme parks and performing arts ensuring a balanced mix of education, culture, and fun.
Proposed Itinerary
Day 1: Flight to Barcelona, transfer to hotel, and a visit to FC Barcelona including the megastore and home-ground experience.
Day 2: Full day at Port Aventura Theme Park.
Day 3: Visit to Montjuïc & the Olympic Ring, shopping time along Passeig de Gràcia, and a traditional Spanish cooking class.
Day 4: Full day at Illa Fantasia Water Park followed by a group pizza night.
Day 5: Visit to La Sagrada Família, sightseeing around the Gothic Quarter, Flamenco dance lesson, and an evening Flamenco show with tapas meal.
Day 6: Check-out, final shopping time at a local mall, and return flight to Dubai.
Educational Focus
Students will gain meaningful cultural understanding through:
▪ Exploring Spanish and Catalan history, landmarks, and traditions
▪ Learning local culinary skills through a hands-on cooking class
▪ Participating in performing arts via Flamenco dance
▪ Experiencing global citizenship through travel aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals
▪ Developing teamwork, confidence, and independence in a real-world setting.
Provisional cost – 13,350 AED
Creative Japan
Year 9, 10 and IB1
29 June – 5 July 2026
We are delighted to share an exciting opportunity for our Art and Design Technology students: the DIS Japan Art, Design & Technology Tour. This extraordinary educational journey will allow students to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich artistic heritage, cutting-edge technology, and vibrant contemporary culture.
Japan is a global hub for innovation and creativity, making it the ideal destination for young artists, designers and makers to expand their thinking, experience new perspectives, and draw inspiration for their coursework and future pathways.
Why Japan?
From ancient temples to futuristic design studios, Japan blends tradition and modernity in ways few places can. Across the week, students will:
Day 1 (29 June):
• Early morning flight from Dubai to Tokyo
• Transfer to accommodation, hotel check-in and dinner
Day 2 (30 June):
• Breakfast and metro trip to Asakusa
• Guided tour of Sensoji Temple
• Lunch at the “Kill Bill” Gonpachi restaurant
• Explore Shibuya Crossing and shopping area
• Evening meal
Day 3 (1 July):
• Visit to Tsukiji Outer Market
• Sushi-making experience and lunch eating what students prepare
• Harajuku exploration and shopping
• Immersive visit to TeamLab Planets
• Evening meal at the hotel
Day 4 (2 July):
• Breakfast and travel to the Mori Art Museum
• Visit exhibitions on video games, AI, and contemporary art
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Afternoon manga or calligraphy workshop
• Evening meal
Day 5 (3 July):
• Breakfast and visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art
• Lunch followed by further Harajuku exploration and shopping
• Evening meal in Harajuku and downtime at the hotel
Day 6 (4 July):
• Breakfast and hotel checkout
• Full-day visit to Tokyo Disneyland
• Evening return to hotel before transfer to Haneda Airport
• After midnight flight departing back to Dubai
Day 7 (5 July):
• Arrival in Dubai in the morning
Each day has been thoughtfully designed to connect with our Art and Design Technology curriculum, allowing students to develop visual research, cultural understanding, photography, design inspiration, and creative confidence.
The estimated cost is 17,900 AED per student, based on a minimum of 20 students.
Tour de Paris - CAS Trip
Friday 25th June – Wednesday 1st July For Year 10
and IB1 ONLY
Oh la la, Paris is ready to be explored! In collaboration with Premiership Experience, join us for an uforgetable week exploring one of Europe’s most renowned capitals. See iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, cruise along the River Seine, and experience the city’s rich culture. Enjoy football training sessions with expert coaches, participate in Performing Arts workshops led by industry professionals, and give back through community projects. Paris is packed with hands-on activities that inspire, challenge, and leave a lasting impact
Day 1: Arrive Paris Airport | Coach transfer to 3/4* partner Hotel Accommodation | Welcome Dinner
Day 2: Performing Arts Workshop* | Free Time (Notre Dame, Chams-Elysees etc) | Evening River Seine Cruise
Day 3: Pastry Making Experience | Afternoon Conservation Volunteering Opportunity
Day 4: Morning Training Session with French Professional Football Coaches | Visit to Louvre Museum | Attend a live show
Day 5: Morning Training Session with French Professional Football Coaches | Behind the Scenes Stadium Tour of Parc des Princes (PSG) | Evening Visit to Top of The Eiffel Tower
Day 6: Tour of the Arc de Triomphe with Access to Panoramic Terrace | Paris City Centre Shopping & Sightseeing | Depart Paris Airport
Provisional Cost: 40 Students max
Staff contacts – blomas@disdubai
Zenda: Simplifying School Payments for Families
At our school, we believe in making life easier for parents—and Zenda helps us do just that.
What is Zenda?
Zenda is a secure, user-friendly mobile app designed to streamline school-related payments. From to trips, enrichment activities and events. Zenda brings everything together in one convenient platform.
Why We Use Zenda?
• All-in-One Marketplace: Pay for extracurricular activities, trips, and more—without queues or paperwork.
• Real-Time Access: View payment history anytime, anywhere.
• Seamless Integration: Zenda works directly with our school systems, ensuring accurate and timely reconciliation.
How It Benefits You?
Parents love Zenda for its simplicity, speed, and reliability. Whether you're enrolling your child in a trip or registering for an activity, Zenda ensures the process is smooth and stress-free payments. Scan the QR code to Download the Zenda app
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The list below are answers to frequently asked questions on our previous international trips.
1. The purpose and importance of CAS
CAS (Creativity, Activity & Service) is a core component of the International Diploma (IB). With this is mind, our carefully designed progarmmes and expeditions allows all students who take part to immerse themselves in all three components and develop a holistic mindset. This will then allow your child the opportunity to develop their university applications, create a broad and exciting persional statemnet/profile, open their mind to new experiences and look at the world through a different lens and perspectives.
2. Accompanying Staff
DIS staff will of course be travelling with our students, meeting you at the airport and supervising our students throughout the trip until we arrive back in to Dubai.
Depending on how many students confirm their attendance on each trip (by making the deposit payment) and the ratio of boys and girls, will be a deciding factor on which staff will travel. We have identified the lead teacher for each trip at present.
3. Vegetarian vs. Halal
On all our international trips, we do cater for all dietary requirements. However, halal is more difficult to source and obtain in our Euroepean destinations due to the culture of culinary appetities. Where possible, we will aim to provide a halal option, yet this may not be daily, yet we will always provide a vegetarian option. Please do consider this when selecting your experience.
4. Accommodation
The accommodation is our venues can vary from hotels, dormitorys and camp sites. As outlined accomodation style is identified for each trip, please review this information.
All accomodationtion is perfectly safe, and provides your child an opportunity to develop independence and have social opportunities. Rooms are based and organised on sharing with who the students are comfirtable with. with. Gender will be kept separate and where possible on different hotel floors and areas of the camp.
5. Vaccines
Depending on your chosen location the authorities may advise vaccinations. We, as a school do not advise, nor do any of our travel companies on vaccination and medical treatment. We do suggest you seek medical advice from your GP or other healthcare specialists. Historically some students have taken tablets, prior to and on the trip, yet these have been advised by doctors. Equally some students and staff do not take any medication. We do not take any responsibility for personal choice.
6. Kit List and Equipment
Each trip will have it’s own requirements and packing list. A city trip will look very different to a rural camp. All trip leaders will communicate an appropriate Kit List with you prior to departure, in a timely manner.
DoMore,BeMore
Please do come along for the journey and follow our Discovery Week highlights at DISonTour
DISonTour is an opportunity for parents and members of the DIS community to feel part of the adventure by viewing our stories and pictures from around the world.
1. Give us a follow 2. Share the love with comments and likes
*Please note this is not a communication platform and should be treated as one to discuss family concerns and ‘check in’ with students. Please use the correct channels and contact the Trip Co-Ordinator in emergencies only.
