Music is a fundamental component of the Durham curriculum, yet the school places a strong emphasis on affording all students the chance to cultivate their musical interests and talents. Across the institution, there is a resounding encouragement for every student to take up an instrument and actively participate in musical events. Durham provides exceptional music facilities and a team of peripatetic music teachers will be on hand to collaborate with students, helping them refine their musical skills. Students can access lessons for various instruments, including piano, woodwind instruments, brass instruments, voice, and drums. Furthermore, opportunities will be accessible for those students interested in studying musical production and recording techniques.

Art and drama, in conjunction with other creative disciplines, hold a significant place within the framework of education at Durham. The institution firmly believes that nurturing student creativity is a crucial element in providing a well-rounded and balanced education. The array of art opportunities encompasses drawing and painting, sculpture, and art appreciation. Moreover, all students are encouraged to actively engage in drama as an integral part of the curriculum, participating in school performances and shows. This involvement begins at an early stage, with even the youngest students in Early Years taking part in assemblies and inviting parents to attend and enjoy their performances. Additionally, Durham emphasizes the importance of public speaking and oration skills in promoting student confidence, recognizing that persuasive speaking plays a pivotal role in leadership development.

In addition to offering a variety of sporting activities including football, rugby, netball, basketball, athletics, and volleyball, Durham provides swimming as both a recreational activity and a competitive sport for all its pupils. The school boasts an excellent 25m indoor swimming pool that is utilized throughout the year by all students, with a weekly swimming lesson scheduled for every age group. Furthermore, an after-school swimming club is available to enhance the fitness and technique of those interested in competing in local interschool and Gulf-wide swimming competitions.

Cricket is a very popular and successful game at Durham UK, with the school setting many of its pupils on the road to careers as successful professional cricketers. The institution fully intends for this success to be repeated in Dubai, and they are fortunate to have exclusive use of an outstanding, all-grass cricket pitch on which to develop their young players. The pitch, located just 5 minutes from the school, is complemented by superb indoor and outdoor facilities based at the school, where they host regular practice sessions for pupils of all ages.