British Schools in the Middle East are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best British Schools in the Middle East, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Top British Schools Middle East 2026
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The Arbor School
Dubai, Middle East •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 49,500 to 90,250 AED
Foundation: 2018Nationalities: 87 different nationalitiesNr of students: 87 studentsExaminations: A Level - BTEC - IGCSELocated in Al Furjan, Dubai, Arbor School is a globally recognised British curriculum school offering an education that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and compassion. Winner of the World’s Best School Prize for Environmental Action 2025, and BSO ratArbor offers a British curriculum from Foundation Stage to Sixth Form, combining academic excellence with sustainability and character development. Students follow GCSE and A Level pathways, supported by expert teachers and a dedicated Futures Counselling Programme for global university preparation. Arbor’s unique ecoliteracy framework and living campus - featuring biodomes and ecolabs - bring learning to life through real-world, hands-on experiences. Graduates achieve strong results and leave as confident, compassionate changemakers ready to thrive in a complex world.Annual tuition fees at The Arbor School range from AED 49,500 to AED 90,250, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition:Boarding tuition: -
Knowledge Gate International School Muscat
Muscat, Muscat Governorate •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: Arabic - EnglishYearly fee: from 2,618 to 5,550 OMR
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: A Level - IGCSEKnowledge Gate International School (KGIS) is a premium school offering quality education from Kindergarten to University.KGIS offers a premium British curriculum from KG to Grade 12. We offer the broadest curriculum in Oman and 100 % of our teachers are UK trained and native English speakers.Annual tuition fees at Knowledge Gate International School Muscat range from OMR 2,618 to OMR 5,550, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Please note, annual tuition fees include the cost of daily school meals. They do not cover the cost of school uniforms, transport, or overseas travel.Boarding tuition: -
The British School of Bahrain (BSB)
Hamala, Bahrain •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 3,003 to 7,923 BHD
Foundation: N/ANationalities: 92 different nationalitiesNr of students: 92 studentsExaminations: A Level - IGCSEThe British School of Bahrain (BSB) has been one of the leading schools in the Kingdom of Bahrain for over 26 years.BSB has consistently achieved the highest A-level scores in Bahrain for four consecutive years, in addition to the many individual awards of highest A-Levels in the world in 2022, for Arabic and Economics. The school also had the best GCSE results in Bahrain, in 2023.At the British School of Bahrain, we follow the National Curriculum for England and Wales with adaptations to allow for the international nature of our students and also the location of our school in the host nation, the Kingdom of Bahrain.Annual tuition fees at The British School of Bahrain (BSB) range from BHD 3,003 to BHD 7,923, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: Tuition fees at BSB are divided into three instalments for the convenience of payment by parents. Enrolment into a new academic year includes a guarantee that parents will pay the full tuition for tha...Boarding tuition: -
Sharjah English School
Sharjah, Middle East •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 27,390 to 70,135 AED
Foundation: 1974Nationalities: 70 different nationalitiesNr of students: 70 studentsExaminations: A Level - AS - IGCSEEstablished in 1974, Sharjah English School is a pioneering not-for-profit educational institution in the UAE, proud of its rich heritage and commitment to providing a world-class education. We reflect on our journey of growth and innovation, guided by the principle of “Rich in History, Future Focused.”Sharjah English School follows the National Curriculum of England and caters to students of ages 3 - 18.Primary As the first accredited ‘Curiosity Approach’ setting in the UAE our Early Years specialists understand and value the importance of a holistic approach to child development. In the Foundation Stage at SES the curriculum is planned and resourced to ignite the children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning and to provide opportunities for all children to succeed in a secure atmosphere, one in which they feel valued. There is an increasing emphasis placed on the core subjects of English, Mathematics and Science, whilst classes also enjoy a child centred approach to learning and see a real purpose to everything they do. We further enhance the children’s experience through themed day...Annual tuition fees at Sharjah English School range from AED 27,390 to AED 70,135, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
Day school tuition: School fees include all books, medical services and classroom supplies although secondary students are expected to provide their own stationery.School fees do not include school uniform, transport and...Boarding tuition: -
International Schools Group (ISG)
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 29,975 to 86,600 SAR
Foundation: 1962Nationalities: 70 different nationalitiesNr of students: 70 studentsInternational Schools Group (ISG), formerly Saudi Arabian International Schools (SAIS), operates five individual schools in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: American School Dhahran (ASD), British School Dhahran (BSD), ISG Dammam, ISG Jubail, and Sara Village School (SVS).American School DhahranIn elementary and middle school, our core curriculum subjects are math, English language arts, science, social studies and physical education. Along with the core subjects, our learners have regular sessions in music, visual arts, Arabic and weekly visits to the school library. Technology is embedded into every aspect of their day. In high school, the AP Capstone program and the IB Diploma Programme are both academically challenging courses of study that students choose from. British School Dhahran From FS2-Year 13, BSD offers the National Curriculum for England and delivers the externally assessed IGCSE and the full A level programme. In Year 12 and 13, the A level programme requires great depth and specialisation in each chosen subject, which requires maturity, org...Annual tuition fees at International Schools Group (ISG) range from SAR 29,975 to SAR 86,600, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Why families choose a British school in the Middle East?
Choosing the right school is pivotal for any parent. Many expatriate and local families in the Middle East opt for British schools, drawn by their promise of high academic standards and a broad, balanced curriculum. But what specifically drives this preference? The reasons are multifaceted and deeply rooted in the perceived benefits of British education systems, as well as the unique offerings of these schools within the Middle Eastern context.
Recognized Academic Excellence
British schools are renowned worldwide for their rigorous curriculum and well-rounded approach to education. The British curriculum, particularly the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) and A-Levels, is highly structured and designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Parents choose British schools in the Middle East for this stringent academic framework that promises to prepare their children for competitive higher education and professional landscapes globally.
Cultural Diversity
The Middle East is a melting pot of cultures, and British schools here mirror this diversity. They provide a multicultural environment where students from various backgrounds learn to coexist and collaborate. Such an atmosphere not only enhances social skills but also instills a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures, which is invaluable in today’s globalized world.
English as a Primary Medium of Instruction
English is the lingua franca of the world, and proficiency in English opens doors to global opportunities. British schools in the Middle East conduct their instruction in English, which helps non-native speakers become fluent in the language. This is a significant draw for parents who want their children to have the best possible foundation for success in an interconnected world.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Beyond academics, British schools are known for their extensive extracurricular programs. From sports to arts and various clubs, these schools offer a plethora of activities that contribute to the holistic development of students. Engaging in such activities helps students develop leadership skills, teamwork, and other social skills that are as critical as academic achievements.
Stability and Continuity
For expatriate families, often on the move, the continuity offered by the British curriculum is invaluable. No matter where they might relocate next, the presence of British schools across the globe ensures that their children’s education remains uninterrupted and consistent. This stability is often cited as a key reason for choosing a British school, especially in a region as transient as the Middle East.
In conclusion, the choice of British schools by families in the Middle East is driven by a combination of high academic standards, opportunities for English language immersion, cultural diversity, and the promise of a well-rounded education that is recognized and respected worldwide. These schools not only cater to the educational needs of their students but also prepare them to be global citizens in a true sense.
How much does it cost to attend British Schools in Middle East?
The yearly tuition fees for British Schools in Middle East generally range from $10,000 to $30,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $40,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $10,000 | $30,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $835 | $2,500 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,500 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $500 | $2,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $11,200 | $35,000 |
Summary
Families choose British schools in the Middle East for their globally recognized curriculum, emphasis on English proficiency, and rich multicultural environment. These institutions not only prepare students academically but also promote a well-rounded development, preparing them to thrive in a global context.