Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Mecca

Mecca, known for its religious significance, is not typically associated with a large expatriate community due to restrictions on non-Muslims entering the city. Consequently, the availability of international or bilingual schools within Mecca is extremely limited. However, expats and digital nomads who are able to reside in Mecca and are looking for educational options for their children might consider schools in nearby cities such as Jeddah, which is within a 40-minute drive and offers a variety of international and bilingual schools. Among the most popular ones are the British International School of Jeddah and the American International School of Jeddah.

British International School of Jeddah (BISJ)

Grades: Kindergarten to Year 13
Location(s): Al-Zahra District, Jeddah
Website: www.bisj.com

The British International School of Jeddah offers a British-style education and follows the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for the final two years. With a diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities, BISJ provides a truly international environment. The school boasts excellent facilities, including science labs, art studios, a theatre, and sports facilities. Extracurricular activities are abundant, catering to a wide range of interests.

American International School of Jeddah (AISJ)

Grades: Pre-K to Grade 12
Location(s): Al-Zahra District, Jeddah
Website: www.aisj.edu.sa

The American International School of Jeddah is an independent school that offers an American curriculum and the Advanced Placement (AP) program for high school students. AISJ is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and provides a comprehensive education with a focus on preparing students for higher education in the US and worldwide. The school's facilities include modern classrooms, a library, computer labs, and sports complexes. AISJ also has a wide range of extracurricular activities and clubs.

Jeddah Knowledge International School (JKS)

Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Location(s): Al-Zahra District, Jeddah
Website: www.jks.edu.sa

Jeddah Knowledge International School is a private school offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and Diploma Programme. With a commitment to holistic education, JKS emphasizes academic excellence, personal growth, and the development of skills for the global world. The school's state-of-the-art campus provides a conducive learning environment with technology-integrated classrooms, science and IT labs, and extensive sports facilities.

Continental School of Jeddah (CSJ)

Grades: Pre-K to Grade 12
Location(s): Al-Rehab District, Jeddah
Website: www.continentalschooljeddah.com

Continental School of Jeddah offers an international education with a curriculum designed to prepare students for the IGCSEs and A-Levels. CSJ prides itself on its multicultural environment, with students from various nationalities. The school focuses on fostering a community where students can develop their intellectual and social skills. Facilities include science labs, computer labs, art rooms, and a multipurpose hall, supporting a range of extracurricular activities.

Al Waha International School (AWIS)

Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 12
Location(s): Al-Naeem District, Jeddah
Website: www.alwahaschools.com

Al Waha International School is a bilingual school offering an international curriculum alongside Arabic and Islamic studies. AWIS aims to provide a balanced education that respects local traditions while incorporating global educational standards. The school has a variety of facilities, including science and computer labs, libraries, and sports areas. It also offers a range of extracurricular activities to enhance students' educational experience.

Please note that while these schools are not located within Mecca itself, they are accessible to those residing in Mecca and willing to commute to Jeddah for their children's education.