A parent’s guide to the new schools in Abu Dhabi
In recent years, the UAE capital has emerged as a prime destination for expatriates, resulting in significant population growth. As more families settle in the city, numerous new schools in Abu Dhabi have opened, introducing innovative teaching practices and enriching extracurricular activities. If you’re a parent planning to enrol your child in a school in the near future, be sure to keep an eye on the latest additions to the educational landscape.
NEW SCHOOLS IN ABU DHABI
The focus of modern-day education is to give individualised attention to every student. So, as we see the number of students rise, the demand for new schools goes up. Although there are quite a few schools in Abu Dhabi, there is also a need for new schools each year.
All new schools in Abu Dhabi have to pass the strict guidelines and standards set and monitored by ADEK. We look at some of the new schools in Abu Dhabi that have opened in the current academic year or will be opening in the upcoming year.
GEMS Founders School, Masdar City
GEMS Founders School opened in Masdar City, an area known for its eco-friendly approach, in September 2024. It currently offers classes from FS1 to Year 8, with a total capacity of 2,100.
Along with academics, the school encourages children to explore their interests and grow through extra-curriculars. The campus has two football fields, four MUGA courts for basketball, netball and volleyball, along with sports halls. Additionally, there will be music and drama spaces, food tech labs (to learn cooking), libraries and outdoor seating areas.
GEMS Founders School Masdar City heavily emphasises sustainability in their education and practices and will be a net-zero campus. You can enrol online and book a tour to apply for your child’s admission.
- Location: Masdar City, Abu Dhabi
- Curriculum: National Curriculum for England
- Fees: AED 26,000 to 34,000
- Contact: +971-2-614-3400
Noya British School, Abu Dhabi
Noya British Academy just opened its doors to students in 2024! Located on Yas Island, this school offers a British curriculum that promises a holistic learning experience.
Noya British Academy is a part of Aldar Education’s expansion and currently offers education from FS1 to Year 6. The goal is to promote physical, emotional and social growth through creativity, digital literacy and other extracurriculars. The school campus on Yas Island features dance rooms, music rooms, libraries and multipurpose courts (basketball, netball, volleyball and 4 badminton courts). Noya British School Yas Island plans to add grades until Year 13 in the near future.
- Location: Yas North Abu Dhabi
- Curriculum: National Curriculum for England
- Fees: AED 32,000 to 47,000
- Contact: +971-2-651-5101
GORDONSTOUN ABU DHABI
Gordonstoun is a renowned British boarding school in Scotland that has set itself apart for its high-quality education and well-rounded educational experiences. In fact, it is where three generations of the British Royal family have studied, as well as the President and Head of State of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Gordonstoun UK plans to open its doors to students in Abu Dhabi, making it the first international brand of this school. They have signed an agreement with the Jubail Island Investment Company and Spaces Investment & Real Estate Development, so we expect updates soon. Gordonstoun Abu Dhabi is expected to open in 2026, and we’re excited to see the brightest minds being moulded here.
- Location: Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi
- Curriculum: National Curriculum for England
- Fees: To be announced
This wraps up our list of new schools in Abu Dhabi. With a growing population, one can expect that along with more campuses of reputed schools in Abu Dhabi, new names will also come up in the near future.
FAQs
What are the best American schools in Abu Dhabi?
The American school system consists of 13 years of education, from Pre-kindergarten to 12th Grade. Subjects include math, sciences, social studies, arts and English, taught for two semesters with credits being accumulated throughout the year.
American schools in Abu Dhabi follow this framework and ensure that students receive a well-rounded education. Some popular options include the American International School in Abu Dhabi, Al Yasat School and Yas American Academy.
What are the best IB schools in Abu Dhabi?
IB, or International Baccalaureate, is a syllabus that aims to instil values of shared guardianship and common humanity in its students. Several IB Schools in Abu Dhabi have managed to build a strong reputation, including The Australian School of Abu Dhabi, Emirates National School and GEMS World Academy. Some, in fact, offer a mix of IB and the American Curriculum, thus creating creative and open-minded people of the future.
Keep following MyBayut to learn about educational institutes across the UAE.
Featured image credits: GEMS Founders School and Noya British School website
