Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi: A new chapter in education
Gordonstoun School UK is set to open its first campus outside the country on Jubail Island Abu Dhabi, in September 2026. This exciting collaboration comes as Jubail Island Investment Company (JIIC) and Spaces Investment & Real Estate Development (Spaces) signed an exclusive licencing agreement with the UK Gordonstoun School. What else do we know about the upcoming Gordonstoun School Jubail Island? This overview guide contains all the details you’re looking for.
Gordonstoun Jubail Island – The Journey Begins
Gordonstoun School Jubail Island Abu Dhabi will open in September 2026, combining the best of Scottish education with rich UAE cultural heritage. The collaboration between JIIC, Spaces and Gordonstoun School presents an incredible opportunity to introduce a new kind of education to the region. Students can become leaders who positively impact society, guided by the values instilled by the parent Gordonstoun School.
The School’s Legacy of Excellence
Gordonstoun, located in Elgin, Scotland, has established itself as one of the world’s leading independent schools. Focusing on value-based education and character building, it caters to students aged four to 18. The school follows the English GCSE and A Level curriculum, providing a well-rounded and academically rigorous education.
Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi will bring the distinct ethos of its parent institution to the UAE. The original Gordonstoun School has 600 students representing over 40 nationalities. This multicultural environment is expected to be mirrored in the Abu Dhabi iteration.
The Royal Connection
Gordonstoun School, renowned for its rich history and distinguished alums, holds a special place in the hearts of the British royal family. His Majesty King Charles III, then Prince Charles, attended Gordonstoun School and has spoken fondly of the school’s impact on his character development. His father, Prince Philip – Duke of Edinburgh, was also a former pupil of Gordonstoun.
The connection between the UAE’s President, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, and Gordonstoun School is intriguing. His Highness is an alumnus of the school, having spent a summer there during the late 1970s. His time there enriched his educational experience and fostered strong ties with the British Royal family.
Aligned with UAE Values
The new Gordonstoun School Abu Dhabi combines the institution’s emphasis on leadership, challenge and service with UAE culture and tradition. This reflects the commitment to providing an education that fosters independence, perseverance and discipline keeping local values in mind.
The Gordonstoun Approach
Gordonstoun is not merely academically oriented but also focuses on ‘character education.’ The school seeks to instil resilience and confidence in its students and places a high value on outdoor education. Given its strong emphasis on ‘service to others’, it is likely that Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi will feature the Duke of Edinburgh International Award scheme.
Facilities and Environment
Details about the Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi campus have yet to be released. But it will be situated amid the rich biodiversity of the mangroves.
Given that most of the UK school’s facilities are relatively modern, it is expected that the Abu Dhabi branch will perhaps reflect its famous building.
Gordonstoun School Abu Dhabi is expected to boast state-of-the-art amenities befitting its reputation. The school in Scotland offers a wide range of facilities, including a rifle range, a five-hole golf course, a 400-meter running track and an indoor swimming pool. Abu Dhabi’s branch will likely incorporate modern facilities that cater to the needs of students and provide a conducive learning environment.
Age Groups
In its early days, Gordonstoun UK accepted students aged 13 to 18 years (Years 9 to 13). However, the co-educational school expanded to include a Junior School for children aged 4 1/2 to 12 years. Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi will follow suit, catering to a full range of age groups from Nursery and FS2 to Year 13.
Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi Curriculum
Although based in Scotland, Gordonstoun follows the National Curriculum for England, with GCSE and A Levels as primary qualifications. While the Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi curriculum hasn’t been confirmed, it might be the same as its UK counterpart, given the international mix of students it is likely to attract.
Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi term dates will likely be the same as other British schools in the UAE capital. The academic year would start in September and end in June of the following year.
Accolades and Achievements
Gordonstoun UK secured top accolades (‘Outstanding and sector leading’) from the HM Inspectorate of Education in their 2019 report. Additionally, the school was honoured as ‘Boarding School of the Year – 2021’ in the Independent Schools of the Year Awards.
Gordonstoun Jubail Island is expected to aim to uphold the high standards set by its parent school. Presently, there is no boarding school in the UAE capital. If Gordonstoun School in Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi, introduces a boarding facility, that would be a huge plus.
Joining the Elite List of British Schools
Gordonstoun School Jubail Island Abu Dhabi will join top British schools in Abu Dhabi, including Cranleigh Abu Dhabi and Repton Abu Dhabi.
The local education regulatory body, ADEK, has awarded high ratings to all these schools. Cranleigh Abu Dhabi has achieved an ‘Outstanding’ rating, while Repton School has been deemed ‘Very Good’.
Gordonstoun School Abu Dhabi Fees Structure
Gordonstoun School Abu Dhabi fees have not yet been announced. However, it is expected to be competitive with other UK schools in the city.
A Commitment to Inclusivity
Gordonstoun School Abu Dhabi will offer equal opportunities to students from all walks of life, just like its Scottish counterpart. The revenue generated from the international operations, including the Abu Dhabi branch, will contribute to the school’s bursary program. This program ensures that Gordonstoun’s education is accessible to talented students regardless of their financial circumstances.
FAQs about Gordonstoun School Jubail Island
Why is Gordonstoun UK so famous?
The reigning King of England, His Majesty Charles III, his father, the Duke of Edinburgh and a distinguished list of royalty and celebrities have attended the school.
What is the Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi location?
The upcoming school will be based on Jubail Island. It is set between Saadiyat Island and Yas Island, two coveted master-planned developments in Abu Dhabi. Spanning over 3,000 hectares, Jubail Island is known for its luxury residential properties, mangroves, water bodies and salt marshes, providing a serene setting for the school.
What impact will Gordonstoun have on the educational sector in Abu Dhabi?
The collaboration between JIIC, Spaces and Gordonstoun School marks an exciting milestone in the UAE capital’s education landscape. The school’s arrival in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the city’s growing status as a global education hub.
With its prestigious reputation and commitment to holistic education, Gordonstoun School Abu Dhabi will offer students an unparalleled experience. The school’s alignment with UAE values ensures that children develop academically in leadership and community service.
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Featured image credit: Gordonstoun UK official website
