Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Al-Ahsa
Summary: If you're moving to Al-Ahsa with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Al-Ahsa
Al-Ahsa, also known as Al-Hasa or Al-Hofuf, is a traditional oasis region in Eastern Saudi Arabia, and while it may not boast the same number of international schools as larger cities like Riyadh or Jeddah, it still offers quality education options for expat and digital nomad families. Among the most popular international or bilingual schools in the area are the Dhahran Ahliyya Schools and the International Programs School. These institutions cater to the diverse educational needs of the expatriate community, providing curricula that facilitate a smooth transition for students from various educational backgrounds.
Dhahran Ahliyya Schools
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Dhahran, approximately 40 minutes from Al-Ahsa
Website: www.das.sch.sa
Dhahran Ahliyya Schools offer a bilingual education with an emphasis on both Arabic and English. They provide an American-style curriculum with the option of an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma for high school students. The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a commitment to fostering a multicultural environment. Enrollment is competitive, and the school is known for its academic excellence and community involvement.
International Programs School
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Al Khobar, within a 40-minute drive from Al-Ahsa
Website: www.ipsksa.com
The International Programs School in Al Khobar is an American curriculum school that serves the expatriate community. It is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and offers a comprehensive education from Pre-K through to Grade 12. The school has a diverse student body and provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and academic clubs. The facilities are modern, and the school is known for its supportive learning environment.
Al Jazeera International School Dammam
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Dammam, less than 40 minutes from Al-Ahsa
Website: www.aljazeera-schools.com
Al Jazeera International School Dammam offers a British curriculum and caters to students from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. The school is known for its focus on academic excellence and personal development. It provides the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) program and boasts a variety of facilities, including science labs, computer labs, and sports areas. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities to enhance the educational experience of its students.
Al Khobar International School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Al Khobar, within a 40-minute drive from Al-Ahsa
Al Khobar International School provides an American-based curriculum with an international perspective. The school is dedicated to nurturing students' intellectual, social, and emotional growth. With a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and technology clubs, the school aims to develop well-rounded individuals. The campus features modern classrooms, science and computer labs, and sports facilities to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Pakistan International School Al Khobar
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Al Khobar, within a 40-minute drive from Al-Ahsa
Website: www.pisk.org
Pakistan International School Al Khobar is an English-medium school that follows the Pakistani curriculum and is affiliated with the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Islamabad. It caters primarily to Pakistani expatriates but also welcomes students of other nationalities. The school emphasizes a balance between academic achievement and character development, offering a range of extracurricular activities to complement its educational programs.
Elite International School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Al Khobar, within a 40-minute drive from Al-Ahsa
Website: www.eliteschool.edu.sa
Elite International School offers an American curriculum and is committed to providing a high-quality, comprehensive education. The school fosters a multicultural environment where students from various backgrounds can thrive. With a focus on both academic and personal growth, Elite International School provides a supportive atmosphere for students to develop their skills and interests through a variety of extracurricular activities and modern educational facilities.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.