The cream of the crop! Top schools in Abu Dhabi
Finding the perfect school for their children is one most important decisions for parents. It influences the child’s social skills, plays an important role in shaping their personality and allows them to adapt well to the world around them. There is a wide selection of schools for families living in the UAE’s capital. Here are some of the best schools in Abu Dhabi to consider for your offspring, with an Outstanding Irtiqaa or BSO rating.
BEST SCHOOLS IN ABU DHABI
Here is a list of the best private schools in Abu Dhabi, which offer a range of curricula.
Yasmina British Academy (YBA)
Those in search of commendable schools in Abu Dhabi may consider enroling their kids at Yasmina British Academy. As per the official website, student progress here is considerably above major global averages across all year groups.
Yasmina British Academy follows the English National Curriculum with core subjects being English, Science and Mathematics. To make fee payments more manageable for parents, the school offers several payment plans.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees: Pre-school to Year 13: AED 44,590 to AED 63,560
- Location: Khalifa City A, Raha Gardens
- Contact: +971-2-501-4888
Pearl British Academy
Rated Outstanding by BSO, Pearl British Academy is an elite academic institute in Abu Dhabi. It is part of the ALDAR Academies group of schools and offers a curriculum for kids aged 2 to 18.
Apart from an extensive educational programme, Pearl British Academy offers facilities for extra curricular activities like a swimming pool, indoor sports hall and outdoor Astroturf. Activities range from horse riding to dance and even sailing.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees: FS1 to Year 6: AED 43,450 to AED 44850
- Location: Muroor Road, Al Danah
- Contact: +971-2-641-8887
Raha International School
Raha International School, one of the best schools in Khalifa City, is an IB World institute with two branches in the capital. It is part of the Taaleem family and caters to students up to Grade 12. Furthermore, it was among the first academic bodies in Abu Dhabi that received authorisation to offer the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years and Diploma Programme.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees for Khalifa City Campus: KCC Minis and EYI: AED 39,710 to AED 62,590
- Fees for Gardens Campus: EYI to Grade 12: AED 40,880 to AED 64,340
- Location: Khalifa City A, Al Raha Gardens | Khalifa City, Sector 13
- Contact: +971-2-556-1567
American Community School (ACS)
Looking for the best schools in Abu Dhab that offer an American curriculum? American Community School is a safe bet. It is among the oldest academic institutes in the capital and was first established in 1969 in Al Bateen before it eventually was moved to Saadiyat Island.
Those interested in enroling their children here must first fill out a pre-application form on the school’s website. Students in Grade 11 and 12 are offered the IB Diploma Program.
Those interested in this curriculum may also consider the other American schools in Abu Dhabi like GEMS American Academy.
- Curriculum: American
- Fees: KG 1 to Grade 12: AED 50,318 to AED 91,148
- Location: Al Saadiyat Island
- Contact: +971-2-681-5115
Merryland International School (MIS)
The curriculum at Merryland International School Abu Dhabi is British, with grades offered up to Year 12. It is also among the affordable schools in Abu Dhabi with an Outstanding rating.
The largest student nationality groups here are from Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Indian descent — with over 2,500 students and 150 teachers. While the curriculum here is UK, it follows the CBSE grading structure. Merryland International School fees is comparable to the schools of similar ranking and repute.
For Merryland International School admission, you can visit their official website.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees: FS1 to Grade 12: AED 24,430 to AED 42,720
- Location: Mussafah
- Contact: +971-2-551-9626
British School Al Khubairat (BSAK)
Our top schools in Abu Dhabi include British School Al Khubairat. Established in 1968, this non-profit institution is one of the oldest schools in the emirate. Boasting high teaching standards, the British School Al Khubairat features a mix of nationalities among its large student population.
The school follows the National Curriculum of England in primary and secondary school, with students sitting for A-Level exams in the Sixth Form. As one of the top schools in Abu Dhabi, this institution emphasises holistic learning, offering a range of arts, music, sports and recreational clubs. The British School Al Khubairat is also renowned for fostering an environment of mutual respect and producing conscientious students.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees: FS1 to Year 13: AED 44,450 – AED 72,740
- Location: Off Airport Road, Al Mushrif
- Contact: +971-2-204-0200
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi School
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi mirrors the upscale neighbourhood of Saadiyat Island that it calls home. The school follows an England and Wales-based curriculum with students taking EYFS and IGCSEs. Along with A-Levels, students in the Sixth Form also complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Cranleigh is an exclusive school with fees to match, which is among the highest school fees in Abu Dhabi.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees: FS1 to Year 13: AED 67,560 to AED 100,130
- Location: Off the Abu Dhabi-Al Falah Road, Near Manarat Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island
- Contact: +971-2-497-0000
Muna British Academy
Previously known as Al Muna Academy, Muna British Academy is one of the top schools in Abu Dhabi. It is ideally located for those living in and near the Madinat Zayed district. Following the National Curriculum of England, Muna British Academy encourages children to be independent, curious learners and thinkers.
This is one of the Abu Dhabi schools in the heart of the main island, with top-of-the-line facilities, including the latest technology in the classrooms and an array of sports facilities. However, parents interested in enrolling their child here should know that Al Muna Academy only caters to students until Year 6.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees: FS2 – Year 6: AED 45,210 to AED 47,040
- Location: Zayed the First Street
- Contact: +971-2-813-2118
The British International School, Abu Dhabi
Part of the prestigious education provider Nord Anglia, which has a network of 61 schools worldwide, the British International School is focused on developing confident and compassionate global citizens. Aside from a purpose-built campus with excellent facilities and an experienced leadership team, this Abu Dhabi school’s motto, ‘Be Ambitious’, ensures that your child will have the skills and knowledge to succeed in today’s rapidly changing world.
- Curriculum: British, IB
- Fees: FS1 to Year 13: AED 50,300 to AED 71,410
- Location: Off the Abu Dhabi – Al Ain Road, Behind Abu Dhabi University
- Contact: +971-2-510-0176
Brighton College Abu Dhabi (BCAD)
Brighton College Abu Dhabi is part of UAE-based Bloom Education. With grades offered to Year 13, this school can be a good option for parents looking for commendable schools with strong academic structures.
- Curriculum: British
- Fees: FS1 to Year 13: AED 50,830 to AED 80,780
- Location: Bloom Gardens, Near Khalifa Park
- Contact: +971-3-815-6500
Below are some of the other private schools to consider for your child:
- GEMS Cambridge International School
- GEMS World Academy
- GEMS Winchester School
- Abu Dhabi International School
- Belvedere British School Abu Dhabi
Remember to apply early for school admissions in Abu Dhabi to ensure your child is shortlisted. Most parents opt to apply a year ahead or sometimes even earlier to secure admissions for their children.
FAQs
What is the best school in Abu Dhabi?
Well, that depends on perspective, the type of curriculum you want your child to learn and your personal preferences. Whatever you decide, the above-mentioned schools can be a good start.
Is Abu Dhabi good for education?
The UAE has a regulated and well-developed education system. It offers a wide array of degrees and academic programmes. And the capital emirate is no exception. You won’t have trouble finding good and affordable schools in Abu Dhabi.
And that ends MyBayut’s picks for the top 10 schools in Abu Dhabi! We hope this article helps you choose the right school for your child. Contact this list of schools in Abu Dhabi to learn more about their admission procedures. Young parents can also consider government schools in Abu Dhabi.
Moving to Dubai? Check out some of the top schools in Dubai that offer American, British, IB and Indian curricula. Regarding Indian schools in Abu Dhabi, commendable ones include Private International English School and more. Stay tuned to MyBayut for more articles on education in the UAE.
