Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Riyadh
Summary: If you're moving to Riyadh 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 Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is a bustling metropolis that has become a hub for expatriates and digital nomads from around the world. Catering to the diverse community, Riyadh offers a variety of international and bilingual schools, providing high-quality education for expat children. Among the most popular ones are the American International School-Riyadh and the British International School of Riyadh, both known for their rigorous curricula and multicultural environments. With a significant expat population, there are numerous options to choose from, ensuring that families can find the right fit for their children's educational needs.
American International School-Riyadh (AIS-R)
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): North Ring Road, Exit 8
Website: www.aisr.org
The American International School-Riyadh offers an American curriculum and is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. With state-of-the-art facilities, including a new high school campus, AIS-R provides a comprehensive education with a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Extracurricular activities are abundant, and the school boasts a diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities.
British International School of Riyadh (BISR)
Grades: Foundation Stage 1 through Year 13
Location(s): Al Hamra District
Website: www.bisr.com.sa
The British International School of Riyadh follows the English National Curriculum and offers IGCSEs and A-Levels. BISR is known for its high academic standards, excellent pastoral care, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school's facilities include science labs, art studios, and sports fields, catering to the holistic development of students.
French International School MLF Riyadh
Grades: Maternelle (Preschool) through Terminale (Grade 12)
Location(s): Al Nadiyah District
Website: www.efiriyadh.com
The French International School MLF Riyadh is part of the Mission Laïque Française network and offers a curriculum based on the French education system. The school is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and caters to French-speaking expatriates as well as other nationalities seeking a French education. It features modern facilities and promotes a multicultural environment.
Kingdom Schools
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): King Khalid Road
Website: www.kingdomschools.edu.sa
Kingdom Schools, affiliated with GEMS Education, offers a bilingual program with an international curriculum alongside a Saudi national program. The school emphasizes academic excellence, Islamic values, and Arabic language proficiency. It provides a variety of extracurricular activities and sports programs for its diverse student body.
Al Yasmin International School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Al Yasmin District
Website: www.alyasmin.edu.sa
Al Yasmin International School offers the Cambridge International Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels. The school is known for its focus on academic excellence and character development. With modern facilities and a range of extracurricular activities, Al Yasmin provides a supportive environment for expat students.
Advanced Learning Schools
Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Al Nafel District
Website: www.alschools.org
Advanced Learning Schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for all school levels. The school is committed to fostering a community of inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people. ALS has excellent facilities, including science labs, libraries, and sports complexes, and encourages students to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities.
Rowad Al Khaleej International Schools
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Several branches in Riyadh
Website: www.rs.edu.sa
Rowad Al Khaleej International Schools provide an American curriculum and the Saudi national curriculum, catering to both local and international students. The schools focus on creating a dynamic learning environment with an emphasis on technology integration. They offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service programs.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Cost of Living in Riyadh
- 5 Tips for Living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia
- Best Places to Live in Saudi Arabia
- Real Estate in Saudi Arabia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia
- What It's Like Living in Riyadh
- Pros and Cons of Living in Saudi Arabia 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Saudi Arabia