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.

Top Schools in abu dhabi 2026

BritishUK

Wales International School

Good

5.0(7)

Baniyas & Wathba

Annual fees

24,160 - 35,980 AED

Top Schools in abu dhabi 2026

Wales International School

United Private School Baniyas

California American School

GEMS Founders School – Masdar City

Italian International School

Nord Anglia International School

Al Rabeeh Academy

Al Maharat Private School

The Spanish School of Abu Dhabi

Emirates Autism Center

Virginia International Private School

Amity International School

Al Ansar Private School

Ashabal Al Quds Private School

Emirates National Private School – Al Manaseer

Noya British School

Global Indian International School

Ajyal International School - Al Falah

Abu Dhabi International School, MBZ

Elite Private School

Al Bashair Private School

Japanese School in Abu Dhabi

Abu Mousa Al Ashaari Private School

Liwa International School Al Mushrif

Al Manara Private School - Al Shamkha Branch

Crescent International Private School

Emirates Future International Academy

Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Bangladesh Islamia Private School

Ajyal International School - MBZ

American International School in Abu Dhabi (AISA)

British School Al Khubairat (BSAK)

Abu Dhabi Autism Center

The British International School

Mayoor Private School

Al Rabeeh School

Saint Joseph's School

Al Ekhlass Private School

International Academic School

Yas American Academy, Aldar Academies

Lycee Francais International Theodore Monod

Emirates Private School, Bani Yas

Hamoodah Bin Ali School

The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy of Girls

Al Afaaq School

Al Lulu School

American Community School of Abu Dhabi (ACS)

Pakistan Community Welfare School

Pearl British Academy, Aldar Academies

Lycee Louis Massignon

Al Roya Private School

Al Eman Private School

Cranleigh Abu Dhabi School

Rosary School

Muna British Academy, Aldar Academies

Abu Dhabi Indian School, Al Wathba

Brighton College Abu Dhabi

Al Aasimah School

Baraem Al Ain Private School

International Jubilee Private School

German International School Abu Dhabi

Ryan International School, Masdar

Horizon Private School (MOE)

GEMS American Academy

GEMS World Academy

Dar Al Uloom Private School

Armenian School of Abu Dhabi

Polaris Private Academy

Emirates National School

Maplewood Canadian International School

International Indian School

Raha International School

The International School of Choueifat

Al Yasat Private School

Ambitions Private (Al Tumooh)

Al Marfa School

Rawafed Private School

Repton School Abu Dhabi

Al Murooj Scientific School

Al Najah Private School