Affordable British Schools in Abu Dhabi 2026: Fees & Ratings
Read ArticleTop Schools in Abu Dhabi 2026
British
British
American
Indian
Indian
British
IBAmerican
British
IBBritish
British
IBAmerican
Annual fees
24,380 - 53,350 AED
IBAmerican
Annual fees
22,190 - 32,410 AED
IBBritish
AmericanUAE Ministry of Education
BritishFrench
4.1(44)
Annual fees
31,238 - 51,660 AED
BritishIB
Indian
IBAmerican
4.3(157)
Annual fees
32,950 - 59,900 AED
Philippine
BritishIB
UAE Ministry of Education
4.3(36)
Annual fees
13,370 - 17,790 AED
UAE Ministry of Education
3.3(24)
Annual fees
5,420 - 11,050 AED
IBAustralian
British
British
4.3(12)
Annual fees
3,700 - 5,100 AED
British
AmericanUAE Ministry of Education
Average Tuition Fees by Area
Average published annual tuition for 2026-2027, by area
Each calculation uses the schools with fees explicitly dated 2026-2027, out of all schools listed for that area. Areas with fewer than five such schools are omitted. Averages cover grade fees, so schools with more grades carry more weight. These figures describe our available data; they are not estimates of the whole market. Missing, undated and older fees are excluded.
| Area | Average annual fee | Basis of calculation |
|---|---|---|
| Corniche & West | AED 41,810 | Based on 10 schools, out of 12 listed |
| Khalifa & Masdar | AED 36,333 | Based on 16 schools, out of 17 listed |
| Muroor & Embassies | AED 31,962 | Based on 6 schools, out of 7 listed |
| Mushrif & Karama | AED 29,199 | Based on 16 schools, out of 22 listed |
| MBZ & Shakhbout | AED 28,045 | Based on 25 schools, out of 26 listed |
| Al Dhafra (West) | AED 20,976 | Based on 5 schools, out of 6 listed |
| Baniyas & Wathba | AED 20,399 | Based on 20 schools, out of 26 listed |
| Mussafah Industrial | AED 10,603 | Based on 8 schools, out of 8 listed |
Average Tuition (AED)
Latest from Abu Dhabi schools
New principals, campuses, inspection ratings and awards, as announced by the schools themselves.
- Leadership
Sabah Rasheed appointed new principal of Liwa International School Al Mushrif
Liwa International School Al Mushrif has introduced Ms Sabah Rasheed as its new principal. The school describes a values-based environment with an international teaching team.
- Leadership
David Binan named new Principal of Lycée Louis Massignon
Lycée Louis Massignon has introduced Mr David Binan as its new Principal at the start of the school year. In a back-to-school message to families, he shared his ambitions for the year and stressed high standards, trust and collective success.
- Award
Shortlisted for Primary School Team of the Year at Education Achievement Awards
The school's primary section has been shortlisted for 'Primary School Team of the Year' at the Education Achievement Awards organised by Stratos Pulse, recognising its educators' collaborative spirit and innovative teaching.
- Award
Students earn 69 Bronze and 20 Silver Duke of Edinburgh International Awards
Students at the school were recognised at a Duke of Edinburgh's International Award ceremony, achieving 69 Bronze Awards and 20 Silver Awards after completing expeditions across the UAE's deserts and mountains, along with volunteering and skills development.
- Leadership
Nick Crafts appointed as new Head of Senior School
The school announced the appointment of Mr Nick Crafts as its new Head of Senior School, highlighting his leadership experience in pupil achievement, pastoral care and curriculum development gained across UK and international school settings.
- Award
Dunes International School Abu Dhabi wins School Category at Global Sustainability Awards 2026
Dunes International School Abu Dhabi was named winner in the School Category at the Global Sustainability Awards 2026. The school describes the award as recognition of sustainability becoming part of its culture, involving students, staff and the wider community.
Browse Schools by Curriculum
Browse Schools by Area
Schools in Al Dhafra (West)Schools in Al Marfa & Al Ras Al AkhdarSchools in Baniyas & WathbaSchools in Central DowntownSchools in Corniche & WestSchools in Gate & MaqtaSchools in Khalifa & MasdarSchools in Khalifa ParkSchools in MBZ & ShakhboutSchools in Muroor & EmbassiesSchools in Mushrif & KaramaSchools in Mussafah IndustrialSchools in Outer Suburbs (North)Schools in Reem & SaadiyatSchools in Yas & Raha
FAQ Abu Dhabi Schools
Find answers to the most common questions about schools in Abu Dhabi.
How does the school system work in Abu Dhabi?
The school system in Abu Dhabi is regulated by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). It includes public schools primarily for Emirati nationals and a wide range of private and international schools serving expatriate and local families. All schools operate under ADEK licensing, inspection, and quality assurance frameworks, ensuring consistent education standards across the emirate.
Is school free in Abu Dhabi?
Public schools in Abu Dhabi are free for Emirati nationals and follow the UAE national curriculum. Private and international schools charge tuition fees and are the primary choice for expatriate families living in the emirate.
How much does school cost in Abu Dhabi?
School fees in Abu Dhabi vary depending on the curriculum, grade level, and school tier. Tuition ranges from mid-priced private schools to premium international institutions offering British, American, IB, French, or Indian curricula. Additional costs may include uniforms, transportation, school meals, learning materials, and extracurricular activities.
What age do children start school in Abu Dhabi?
Children typically start school at age 3 or 4 in nursery or early years programmes. Compulsory education generally begins at age 5, although the exact entry age may vary depending on the curriculum followed by the school.
What types of schools are available in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi offers public schools following the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum, as well as private and international schools delivering British, American, International Baccalaureate (IB), Indian (CBSE), French, and other international programmes. This variety allows families to choose between local and global education pathways.
What curricula are available in Abu Dhabi schools?
Schools in Abu Dhabi offer a wide selection of curricula, including British (UK), American, IB, Indian (CBSE), French, and UAE national programmes. All curricula are supervised and approved by ADEK to ensure quality and compliance.
Where are schools located in Abu Dhabi?
Schools in Abu Dhabi are located across Abu Dhabi Island and surrounding residential areas, including Khalifa City, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Reem Island, Al Raha, and Saadiyat Island. This distribution allows families to find schools close to their home or workplace.
Are international schools common in Abu Dhabi?
Yes. International schools are very common in Abu Dhabi and are widely attended by expatriate families. Many schools offer strong academic outcomes and internationally recognised qualifications that support global university admissions.
How long is the summer break in Abu Dhabi schools?
The summer break in Abu Dhabi usually lasts between 8 and 9 weeks, depending on the curriculum and academic calendar approved by ADEK.
Are schools in Abu Dhabi regulated by the government?
Yes. All schools in Abu Dhabi are regulated by ADEK, which oversees licensing, inspections, quality assurance, and curriculum compliance across the emirate.
