Private Schools in Abu Dhabi 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 Private Schools in Abu Dhabi, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.
Top Private Schools Abu Dhabi 2026
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The British International School Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •- from 3
- to 18 years old
School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB CurriculumLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 54,204 to 76,952 AED
Foundation: 2009Nationalities: 90 different nationalitiesNr of students: 90 studentsExaminations: BTEC - IB Diploma - IGCSEThe British International School Abu Dhabi The British International School Abu Dhabi is an outstanding-rated school for ages 3–18, offering English National Curriculum, IGCSE, IB Diploma, and BTEC pathways.English National Curriculum coupled with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and BTEC Diploma in Years 12 and 13Annual tuition fees at The British International School Abu Dhabi range from AED 54,204 to AED 76,952, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Raha International School
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 604,800 to 604,800 EUR
Foundation: 2024Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/ARaha International School boasts an impressive IBDP average score of 39+ points and features state-of-the-art learning spaces, offering a comprehensive IB curriculum for ages 3-18.The academic structure at Raha International School is meticulously designed to cater to students aged 3 to 18, encompassing the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). Each phase is tailored to develop students' critical thinking and inquiry skills. Transition points, such as moving from PYP to MYP, are supported through comprehensive guidance and assessment strategies that track student progress. Students engage with a range of subjects, including languages, sciences, and arts, with specific pathways that align with their interests and career aspirations. The school emphasizes formative assessments, allowing educators to adapt teaching methodologies effectively while fostering a growth mindset among students. This tailored approach, com...Annual tuition fees at Raha International School range from EUR 604,800 to EUR 604,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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GEMS American Academy - Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: EUR
Foundation: 2019Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: IB Diploma ProgrammeGEMS American Academy Abu Dhabi offers exceptional IB Programme results with a unique blend of American and IB curricula for ages 6-18, featuring award-winning STEAM facilities on a single campus.The academic framework at GEMS American Academy is segmented into distinct phases: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for KG1 to Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6 to 10, and the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11 and 12. Each phase emphasizes inquiry-based learning, ensuring that students not only acquire knowledge but also develop skills necessary for lifelong learning. Assessment is continuous and multifaceted, incorporating both formative and summative evaluations. Students are regularly assessed through projects, presentations, and traditional exams, with a focus on developing analytical and critical thinking skills. Transition points between phases are smooth, supported by comprehensive guidance that prepares students for the rigor of the IBDP.Annual tuition fees at GEMS American Academy – Abu Dhabi range from EUR to EUR , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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International Community School-Mushrif
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Arabic - English - OtherYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AInternational Community School-Mushrif follows the IB Curriculum, offering a comprehensive education pathway with small class sizes and dedicated pastoral care for a diverse international student body.The academic program at International Community School-Mushrif combines rigorous curriculum standards with innovative teaching methods. Students progress through carefully structured phases, building strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking. Senior students prepare for internationally recognized examinations, with pathways including IB Curriculum. The school maintains high academic standards while supporting individual learning needs. Assessment is continuous and comprehensive, providing regular feedback to students and families about progress and development.Annual tuition fees at International Community School-Mushrif range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 17,443 to 17,443
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AExaminations: IB Diploma ProgrammeGEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi features an Outstanding DSIB rating, offering an innovative IB curriculum with a strong focus on STEAM for students aged 3-18 and exceptional global university placements.The academic journey at GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi is divided into distinct phases, each aligned with the IB curriculum. Early Years (ages 3-5) focus on a play-based approach, while Primary Years (ages 6-11) emphasize inquiry-based learning. As students transition to the Middle Years Programme (ages 11-16), they engage in a more structured curriculum that prepares them for the IB Diploma Programme, which is offered to students aged 16-18. This progression ensures a seamless transition with clear benchmarks to assess student readiness.Students are assessed through a variety of methods including coursework, projects, and examinations. The unique aspect of the curriculum delivery lies in its emphasis on real-world applications, where students participate in community projects and global ini...Annual tuition fees at GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi range from 17,443 to 17,443, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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EMIRATES NATIONAL SCHOOLS - BRANCH 3
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AEmirates National Schools – Branch 3 is the only IB school in Abu Dhabi, offering a high-achieving IB Diploma Programme with an average of 40+ points and a STEAM Lab featuring advanced technology for ages 6-18.The academic structure of Emirates National Schools is designed to support a diverse student body, with educational pathways that span from early childhood through to secondary education. The school employs the IB curriculum, which is divided into three main phases: Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3-11, Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11-16, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16-19. Each phase is tailored to promote inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding.Assessment within the IB framework is continuous, utilizing both formative and summative methods to gauge student understanding and progress. At transition points, particularly when moving from PYP to MYP and from MYP to DP, students receive targeted support to ensure a seamless educati...Annual tuition fees at EMIRATES NATIONAL SCHOOLS – BRANCH 3 range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Bateen World Academy
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: Arabic - English - OtherYearly fee: from 604,800 to 604,800
Foundation: 2015Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/ABateen World Academy boasts an Outstanding DSIB rating since 2015 and an impressive IBDP average of 38+ points, offering a comprehensive IB curriculum for students aged 6-18 in purpose-built learning spaces. Abu Dhabi.Bateen World Academy embraces the IB curriculum framework, tailored for students from FS1 to Year 13. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) emphasizes inquiry-based learning for younger students, allowing them to explore and connect concepts across subjects. As students transition to the Middle Years Programme (MYP), they engage with a more rigorous curriculum that prepares them for the challenges of the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), which they undertake in their final two years.The assessment approach is continuous and comprehensive, with formative assessments ensuring that students receive timely feedback. Standardized testing, project work, and personal reflections are integral to evaluating progress, providing a holistic view of each student’s capabilities. Transition points are marked by a...Annual tuition fees at Bateen World Academy range from 604,800 to 604,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Australian School of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: Australian Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 94,501 to 604,800
Foundation: 2011Nationalities: 45 different nationalitiesNr of students: 45 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma ProgrammeAustralian School of Abu Dhabi boasts an IB Diploma Programme average score of 38+, offering a comprehensive IB curriculum for ages 6-18 with a strong community focus and diverse student nationality mix.The academic structure at the Australian School of Abu Dhabi is meticulously designed to support the developmental needs of students at each phase. In the Early Years (KG), children experience a foundation built on play-based learning, progressing to a structured Primary Years Programme (PYP) that emphasizes inquiry and exploration. As students transition to the Middle Years Programme (MYP), they engage in a challenging curriculum that prepares them for the rigorous IB Diploma Programme, which culminates in their final two years of high school.Assessment is continuous and multifaceted, incorporating formative and summative evaluations that gauge student progress against IB standards. This approach ensures that students not only meet academic requirements but also develop essential skills s...Annual tuition fees at Australian School of Abu Dhabi range from 94,501 to 604,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Aspen Heights British School
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: British Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Middle Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee:
Foundation: 2019Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AAspen Heights British School is rated Outstanding by DSIB, offering an IB curriculum for ages 6-18 and state-of-the-art STEAM facilities to enhance personalized education. Located in Abu Dhabi.The academic structure at Aspen Heights British School is divided into distinct phases, starting from Nursery, where foundational skills in literacy and numeracy are developed, through to the Primary Years Programme (PYP), which emphasizes inquiry-based learning. In the Secondary phase, students transition to the Middle Years Programme (MYP), culminating in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Year 12 and 13 students, providing them with international recognition.Assessment is a continuous process, with regular formative evaluations alongside summative assessments at the end of each term. The school employs a variety of assessment methods, including project-based learning and standardized tests, allowing for a well-rounded evaluation of student capabilities. Transit...Annual tuition fees at Aspen Heights British School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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American International School in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma Programme - IB Primary Years ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee:
Foundation: 1995Nationalities: 80 different nationalitiesNr of students: 80 studentsExaminations: IB Diploma ProgrammeAmerican International School in Abu Dhabi features an Outstanding DSIB rating and an average IBDP score of 36, offering a comprehensive IB curriculum for secondary students and innovative outdoor learning spaces.AISA’s academic structure encompasses several key phases, beginning with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 to 11. This foundational stage emphasizes inquiry-based learning, where students explore and engage with their environment. Transitioning into the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11 to 16, students delve into a broad range of subjects, fostering critical thinking and personal development.The culmination of AISA's curriculum is the IB Diploma Programme for grades 11 and 12, where students select from a diverse array of subjects, preparing for university applications. Assessment is conducted through a combination of internal assessments and external exams, with a strong focus on promoting independent research and communication skills. The curriculum's unique de...Annual tuition fees at American International School in Abu Dhabi range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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American Community School, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: American Curriculum - IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 1,856,145 to 1,856,145
Foundation: 1972Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AAmerican Community School Abu Dhabi offers award-winning STEAM programs and consistently achieves IBDP averages of 38+ points, providing an IB and American curriculum for ages 6-18.The IB curriculum at ACS is structured into several key phases, beginning with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3-11, which focuses on inquiry-based learning. This is followed by the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11-16, where students engage in a broader range of subjects, building critical thinking and research skills. Finally, the Diploma Programme (DP) for ages 16-18 allows students to specialize in subjects of interest, culminating in assessments that are recognized globally.Assessment at ACS is multifaceted, combining formative and summative evaluations, regular feedback, and standardized testing, ensuring students are well-prepared for their IB examinations. Transition points between phases are supported with personalized guidance, allowing students to navi...Annual tuition fees at American Community School, Abu Dhabi range from 1,856,145 to 1,856,145, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Al Najah Private School
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee: from 604,800 to 604,800
Foundation: 2025Nationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AAl Najah Private School offers a distinctive IB curriculum with a focus on critical thinking and cultural appreciation for students aged 6-18. Innovative STEAM learning labs enhance the educational experience in Dubai.The academic structure at Al Najah Private School is meticulously designed to cater to students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, ensuring a seamless transition between educational phases. In the early years, the focus is on foundational skills, gradually moving towards more complex concepts in the secondary years, where students engage in the IB Diploma Programme. This programme requires rigorous coursework and culminates in examinations that assess a wide range of skills and knowledge.Assessment is multifaceted, incorporating project-based evaluations, oral presentations, and traditional examinations, thus providing a comprehensive picture of each student's abilities. Transition points at the end of Grade 5 and Grade 10 are characterized by personalized guidance, helping students navig...Annual tuition fees at Al Najah Private School range from 604,800 to 604,800, depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Abu Dhabi International Private School
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates •Co-Education •School type: International School - Private SchoolCurriculum: IB Curriculum - IB Diploma ProgrammeLanguage of instruction: EnglishYearly fee:
Foundation: N/ANationalities: N/ANr of students: N/AAbu Dhabi International Private School offers an IB curriculum for ages 6-18, focusing on personalized education in small class sizes and dedicated pastoral care. The school provides a diverse, supportive environment in Abu Dhabi.The academic program at Abu Dhabi International Private School combines rigorous curriculum standards with innovative teaching methods. Students progress through carefully structured phases, building strong foundations in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking. Senior students prepare for internationally recognized examinations, with pathways including IB Curriculum. The school maintains high academic standards while supporting individual learning needs. Assessment is continuous and comprehensive, providing regular feedback to students and families about progress and development.Annual tuition fees at Abu Dhabi International Private School range from to , depending on the student’s grade level and program.
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Why choose a private school in Abu Dhabi?
Choosing a private school in Abu Dhabi offers a distinctive educational experience that merges global standards with local values. The city’s private schools are renowned for their high-quality education, international curricula, and the multicultural environment they foster. This unique blend makes them an attractive option for families seeking an enriching education for their children.
World-Class Curricula
One of the primary reasons parents opt for private education in Abu Dhabi is the access to international curricula such as the British, American, and International Baccalaureate (IB). These programs are not only globally recognized but also designed to encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The rigorous academic standards maintained by these curricula prepare students exceptionally well for universities, both locally and internationally.
Exceptional Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
Private schools in Abu Dhabi are often equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the learning experience. From science labs and art studios to sports complexes and music rooms, these institutions offer resources that are sometimes scarce in public schools. Moreover, the range of extracurricular activities available helps students develop a well-rounded personality, nurturing talents that go beyond the academic spectrum.
Personalized Learning Experience
The smaller class sizes typically found in private schools allow for a more personalized approach to education. Teachers can give more individual attention, understand each student’s learning style, and tailor their methods accordingly. This personalized attention helps in identifying and nurturing each child’s strengths and addressing their weaknesses more effectively.
Multicultural Environment
With students from various nationalities, private schools in Abu Dhabi provide a multicultural environment that is rich and diverse. This exposure to different cultures and perspectives prepares students for the global challenges of today’s world. It fosters respect and understanding among students, equipping them with the interpersonal skills necessary for success in a globalized society.
Language Development
In addition to the standard curriculum, private schools in Abu Dhabi often offer robust language programs where students can learn new languages or strengthen their skills in Arabic or English. This multilingual education is a significant advantage in the global job market and further enhances students’ cognitive abilities.
In conclusion, private schools in Abu Dhabi present a compelling choice for parents due to their emphasis on holistic development, academic excellence, and global readiness. The blend of superior educational standards, comprehensive development opportunities, and a supportive, diverse community creates an ideal learning environment that can significantly benefit every student.
How much does it cost to attend Private Schools in Abu Dhabi?
The yearly tuition fees for Private Schools in Abu Dhabi generally range from $8,000 to $20,000 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 $30,000 annually.
Category | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
Annual Tuition | $8,000 | $20,000 |
Monthly Tuition Equivalent | $670 | $1,670 |
Registration Fee (one-time) | $500 | $1,000 |
Uniforms & Materials | $200 | $500 |
Extras & Trips | $300 | $1,000 |
Total Est. Annual Cost | $9,000 | $22,500 |
Summary
Private schools in Abu Dhabi offer international curricula, superior facilities, and a personalized learning experience in a multicultural environment. These institutions prepare students for global university and career paths, emphasizing holistic development and academic excellence. The educational experience at these schools is designed to nurture a well-rounded, globally competent individual.