Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a bustling metropolis that has become a hub for expatriates and digital nomads from around the world. Catering to the diverse population, the city offers a variety of international and bilingual schools, providing high-quality education to meet the needs of expat families. Among the most popular are the British International School Abu Dhabi and the American Community School of Abu Dhabi, both known for their robust curriculums and multicultural environments.

British International School Abu Dhabi (BISAD)

Grades: FS1 to Year 13
Location(s): Behind Abu Dhabi University, Al Ain Road, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.nordangliaeducation.com/our-schools/abu-dhabi

BISAD offers the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for senior students. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, music rooms, and sports fields. Extracurricular activities are abundant, with options ranging from arts to athletics, fostering a well-rounded education.

American Community School of Abu Dhabi (ACS)

Grades: Pre-K to Grade 12
Location(s): Khalidiya Area, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.acs.sch.ae

ACS follows an American curriculum and offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The school is equipped with modern facilities, including a performing arts theatre, a competition-sized swimming pool, and technology-integrated classrooms. ACS is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to service learning.

Raha International School

Grades: KG1 to Grade 12
Location(s): Al Raha Gardens, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.rahainternational.org

Raha International School is an IB World School, offering the full IB continuum of PYP, MYP, and DP. The school's multicultural environment supports students from over 80 nationalities and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and technology clubs.

GEMS American Academy Abu Dhabi

Grades: Pre-K to Grade 12
Location(s): Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.gemsaa-abudhabi.com

GEMS American Academy offers an American curriculum with the option of the IB Diploma in the later years. The school has impressive facilities, such as a planetarium, Olympic-sized pool, and multiple sports courts. It emphasizes a holistic approach to education with a strong focus on extracurricular engagement.

Abu Dhabi International School (AIS)

Grades: KG to Grade 12
Location(s): Al Rowdah and MBZ City, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.aisa.sch.ae

AIS offers both American and British curriculums, including IGCSE and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school is known for its diverse student body, representing over 70 nationalities, and provides a wide array of extracurricular activities, from Model United Nations to competitive sports teams.

The International School of Choueifat – Abu Dhabi

Grades: KG to Grade 12
Location(s): Khalifa City B, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.iscabudhabi.sabis.net

The International School of Choueifat is part of the SABIS® network and offers a rigorous curriculum that prepares students for the SABIS® External Examinations and college entrance exams. The school's facilities include science and computer labs, and it has a strong emphasis on discipline and academic achievement.

Canadian International School (CIS)

Grades: Pre-K to Grade 12
Location(s): Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.cisabudhabi.com

CIS follows the Alberta Education Curriculum, offering a Canadian education experience in the UAE. The school has excellent facilities, including a 400-meter track, swimming pools, and a fine arts center. CIS is known for its inclusive environment and commitment to fostering leadership and critical thinking skills.

Al Bateen Academy

Grades: Year 7 to Year 13
Location(s): Al Manaseer, Abu Dhabi
Website: www.albateenacademy.sch.ae

Al Bateen Academy offers the English National Curriculum and the IB Diploma Programme. The school has a strong focus on academic excellence and personal growth, with facilities that support a variety of sports and arts programs. It also places a significant emphasis on language learning, offering Arabic, French, and Spanish.