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Message from the Principal

Welcome to RWA Sharjah

My name is Armeena Tabassum, and as the Founding Principal, it is my profound privilege and honour to welcome you to Raffles World Academy Sharjah - the first full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum school in Sharjah, where academic excellence, character development, and a deep love for learning come together to shape remarkable young people.

After 15 highly rewarding years at Raffles World Academy Dubai as Vice Principal and Head of Primary, leading RWA Sharjah marks not only the next chapter in my professional journey, but a personal commitment to building a school where every child feels valued, empowered, and inspired.

Bringing Raffles World Academy to Sharjah to extend the legacy of excellence and holistic, child-centred education. 

As a dynamic and visionary school leader with 29 years of experience, including 26 years in IB schools across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education- an education that goes far beyond subjects and classrooms. It is an experience that nurtures curiosity, builds character, and instills confidence. Throughout my journey, I have seen the remarkable potential that emerges when children are encouraged to take risks, reflect with purpose, act with integrity, and care deeply for others. These are the qualities that shape not only successful learners, but compassionate, resilient human beings.

Opening in August 2026, RWA Sharjah will welcome students from Pre-K (age 3) to Grade 8, expanding each year to offer the full IB continuum- the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), Diploma Programme (DP), and Career-related Programme (CP) alongside the US High School Diploma.

As part of the esteemed Innoventures Education family and building on the proud legacy of Raffles World Academy Dubai, our school is committed to serving the growing needs of the Northern Emirates through an education that is globally recognised and deeply rooted in local values.

At the heart of RWA Sharjah is our unwavering belief in the IB Learner Profile, which nurtures principled, caring, open-minded individuals who are ready to take meaningful action in their world. From their earliest years, our students will be encouraged to be inquirers, communicators, risk-takers, and reflective learners who embody resilience, empathy, and global mindedness.

Our mission is to empower students with a rigorous, holistic, and international education for success in an ever-changing world. Through personalised learning pathways and strong pastoral care, we will ensure that every learner discovers their strengths, embraces challenges, and grows into a confident, compassionate, future-ready global citizen.

In alignment with the UAE Vision and the E33 Strategy, RWA Sharjah will prioritise innovation, Arabic language and culture, and a deep sense of national identity. We are committed to Emiratisation and to cultivating future leaders who honour the heritage of the Emirates while engaging thoughtfully with the wider world.

I believe wholeheartedly that a school flourishes when it is built on strong partnerships. I am deeply grateful for the trust our families place in us and value the warmth, openness, and collaboration that define our community. Together with parents, teachers, and students, we will create a nurturing environment where well-being is protected, diversity is celebrated, and every child feels a true sense of belonging.



As we build this extraordinary school from the ground up, I look forward to welcoming every family into our community, a community where each child is cherished, challenged, and encouraged to become the very best version of themselves.

Dr. Armeena Tabassum
Founding Principal

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