Looking for the best international schools in Abu Dhabi for 2025? Whether you’re an expat family relocating or already based in the UAE, choosing the right school is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Abu Dhabi is home to over 200 private institutions offering top-tier education in British, American, IB, and Canadian curriculum.
In this updated guide, we highlight the best international schools in Abu Dhabi based on:
- The latest ADEK inspection reports for 2024–25 via the TAMM app
- Verified fee structures and curriculum offerings
- Location, facilities, and real parent feedback
- Support for IB, British GCSEs/A-Levels, American AP/SAT, and more
Note: always check the School websites for the latest fees and changes to fee structures. Links to each school is linked below.
Table of Contents
Why These Are the Best International Schools in Abu Dhabi
These schools excel across several benchmarks:
- Curriculum Excellence: British, IB, American, and Canadian programs
- High ADEK Ratings: “Outstanding” in teaching quality and student outcomes
- Modern Facilities: Labs, sports centers, theaters, tech-integrated classrooms
- Strong Community: High parent satisfaction, diverse student body
- Academic Results: Consistently high university placement rates
➡️ We synthesized feedback from online parent forums, social media groups, and direct interviews where available.
Understanding ADEK Ratings in 2025
The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) conducts schools evaluation across performance, leadership, curriculum, and student well-being.
| ADEK Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Outstanding | Exceeds UAE and international standards in every area |
| Very Good | Performs above expectations and continually improves |
| Good | Meets standards with minor development needs |
➡️ Check ratings on the ADEK School Directory.
Outstanding ADEK-Rated International Schools in Abu Dhabi (2025)
Based on the latest verified ADEK data from the TAMM app, the following schools have received “Outstanding” ratings and represent the highest-performing private schools in Abu Dhabi for the 2024–25 academic year:
| School | Curriculum | ADEK Rating | Estimated Fees (AED) | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Community School (ACS) | American | Outstanding | AED 48852 – 88493 | Saadiyat Island |
| Bateen World Academy | British, IB | Outstanding | AED 55,420–75,310 | Al Manhal |
| Canadian International School | Canadian | Outstanding | AED 37,010 – 49,820 | Khalifa City |
| Cranleigh School Abu Dhabi | British, IB | Outstanding | AED 71,500 – 105,980 | Saadiyat Island |
| Merryland International School | British | Outstanding | AED 25,850 – 45,220 | MBZ City |
| Muna British Academy | British | Outstanding | AED 46,620 – 48,510 | Al Danah |
| Repton Foundation School (FS1 – Y2) | British | Outstanding | AED 63,740 – 70,700 | Al Reem Island |
| Yasmina British Academy | British | Outstanding | AED 49,740 – 67,270 | Khalifa City |
| The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) | British | Outstanding | AED 51,410 – 74,560 | Abu Dhabi Al Mushrif |
| The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy For Boys | American | Outstanding | AED 58,390 – 78,050 | Al Khalidiyah |
| The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy For Girls | American | Outstanding | AED 33,910 – 78,160 | Al Manhal |
| The British International School Abu Dhabi (BISAD) | British, IB | Outstanding | AED 56,330 – 76,950 | Abu Dhabi ZAYED CITY |
Note: ADEK ratings and fees are subject to change. Always verify the latest information directly with the school or the official ADEK website.
Profiles of the Best International Schools in Abu Dhabi
American Community School (ACS)
- Curriculum: American
- Location: Saadiyat Island
- Standout: Strong AP program, community values, and modern campus facilities.
Bateen World Academy
- Curriculum: British, IB
- Location: Al Manhal
- Standout: Offers IGCSE and IBDP pathways, with strong language and arts programs.
Canadian International School
- Curriculum: Canadian
- Location: Khalifa City
- Standout: Offers Alberta curriculum, inclusive ethos, and bilingual programs.
Cranleigh School Abu Dhabi
- Curriculum: British, IB
- Location: Saadiyat Island
- Standout: Premier arts and music facilities, holistic British education.
Merryland International School
- Curriculum: British
- Location: Mohamed Bin Zayed City
- Standout: Academic focus, affordable fees, and high parental satisfaction.
Muna British Academy
- Curriculum: British
- Location: Al Danah
- Standout: Outstanding primary education and nurturing environment.
Repton Foundation School
- Curriculum: British
- Location: Al Reem Island
- Standout: Heritage Repton model with a modern, technology-rich campus.
Yasmina British Academy
- Curriculum: British
- Location: Khalifa City
- Standout: STEM-focused, part of Aldar Academies, excellent student outcomes.
The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK)
- Curriculum: British
- Location: Airport Road
- Standout: One of Abu Dhabi’s most established schools, strong university pathways.
The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy For Boys
- Curriculum: American
- Location: Al Khalidiyah
- Standout: Blends heritage and innovation with strong Islamic studies integration.
The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy For Girls
- Curriculum: American
- Location: Al Manhal
- Standout: Exceptional bilingual support and personalized academic mentoring.
The British International School Abu Dhabi (BISAD)
- Curriculum: British, IB
- Location: Al Mushrif
- Standout: Known for strong IGCSE and IB results, excellent pastoral care, and diverse extracurriculars.
Choosing the Right School for Your Family
When comparing the best international schools in Abu Dhabi, consider:
- Curriculum compatibility with your child’s learning style and university plans
- School location and daily commute
- Special education needs (SEN) support and language assistance
- Facilities (sports, arts, labs, extracurriculars)
- Parent reviews, school leadership, and admissions process
📅 Top Tip: Begin your school search and application process at least 3–6 months in advance of your child’s intended start date.
Frequently Asked Questions – Best International Schools in Abu Dhabi (2025)
What are the best international schools in Abu Dhabi?
The best international schools in Abu Dhabi in 2025 include American Community School (ACS), Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, Bateen World Academy, Muna British Academy, and The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) all rated “Outstanding” by ADEK.
What is the best curriculum for international schools in Abu Dhabi?
British, American, IB, and Canadian are top options in the best international schools in Abu Dhabi. Choose based on your child’s learning style and future goals. British and IB are excellent for UK/EU pathways, American for North America.
Which is the most affordable outstanding international school in Abu Dhabi?
Among the best international schools in Abu Dhabi, Muna British Academy and Merryland International School offer high quality at a more accessible fee range.
Can I apply to Abu Dhabi international schools from abroad?
Yes, many of the best international schools in Abu Dhabi offer online applications, remote interviews, and digital assessments.
Which Abu Dhabi international schools follow the American curriculum?
American Community School, Canadian International School, and the Sheikh Zayed Academies are top-rated American curriculum international schools in Abu Dhabi.
Where can I find ADEK school inspection results for 2025?
You can verify all official ADEK school ratings through the ADEK Private School Directory.
How do British and IB curriculums compare in Abu Dhabi?
British curriculum offers IGCSEs and A-Levels. IB is more inquiry-based with international recognition. Many of the best international schools in Abu Dhabi offer both pathways.
Conclusion: Save Time & Choose Smart
The best international schools in Abu Dhabi offer more than strong academics they nurture global citizens with well-rounded development. With the latest ADEK ratings, verified fee ranges, and curriculum comparisons, this 2025 guide helps you make an informed decision for your child’s education.
📥 Need help choosing a school or relocating to the UAE? [Contact us today for expert support.]
Explore the best international schools in Abu Dhabi because your child deserves the best start.