Abu Dhabi has evolved into a global majestic city that grows outwards (and upwards) rapidly. With the constant influx of new residential areas, coastal living, and international schools it is tempting for many families. This international community makes up around 90 percent of the population, and international schools have various types of offerings for educational systems.
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. Not only will it impact your child’s education quality, but also influence the location of where you choose to live. This article presents the top 10 schools in Abu Dhabi for 2024.
1. Brighton College Abu Dhabi
Established in 1845, Brighton College Abu Dhabi is known for its high level of teaching. This school is an extension of the prestigious Brighton College family, where children enjoy learning and are encouraged to be intellectually curious. Besides academics, there is a focus on building confidence and promoting personal development above all else. Brighton College Abu Dhabi is positioned amongst the top 100 education providers on Spier’s School Index of 2021. Oxford, Imperial College London, and St Andrews are a few establishments where many graduates of this school have furthered their studies.
Curriculum: British
Location: 175 Das Street, Abu Dhabi
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
2. Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
Cranleigh is set on the beautiful island of Saadiyat and implements modern teaching approaches with traditional education values to provide the best educational experience to all students. Cranleigh was listed among the world’s top 100 private schools by Spear's Schools Index 2020 for its community engagement, sustainability, and student welfare. The campus provides a strong cultural affinity. Built upon a foundation of 450 years’ history, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi seeks to develop students' character and scholarship equally.
Curriculum: British
Location: Saadiyat Island
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
3. Merryland International School
With modern facilities including a 3D lab, robotics lab, and weather station, Merryland aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and inventors. The school's programmes that have earned Cambridge accreditation attest to its dedication to equal opportunity and future readiness. Merryland is praised by parents for a caring atmosphere and commitment to supporting students' academic and personal success.
Curriculum: British
Location: Mussaffah
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
4. Muna British Academy
Muna British Academy is known for being one of the leading primary schools, receiving an "Outstanding" rating from ADEK since 2015. It was founded in 2009 and serves students from Foundation Stage 1 to Year 6 with a happy and well-organised learning environment. Upon completion of their studies here, students typically progress to Bateen World Academy, Mamoura British Academy, or Yasmina British Academy. The school has great sports facilities – a netball court plus a swimming pool and multipurpose sports hall – promoting teamwork and physical development through various activities. Muna British Academy is culturally rich, with a student body representing over 50 nationalities.
Curriculum: British
Location: Zayed the First Street
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
5. Pearl British Academy
The school takes pride in its warm and family-oriented environment for young learners. The promise of this elementary school to deliver goes beyond education, moulding minds that can lead in creativity. Your child's impending secondary school experience with Aldar Education will prioritise their needs and nurture progress when they register at Pearl British Academy.
Curriculum: British
Location: Muroor Road
ADEK Rating: Very Good
6. Raha International School
Over 80 different nationalities make up the friendly and diverse community of Raha International School in Khalifa City. Raha, one of the best IB schools in Abu Dhabi, focuses on creative teaching that is tailored for each student. The school's passionate student body and highly skilled multinational staff are examples of its dedication to both academic success and global responsibility. The school's commitment to creating a supportive and stimulating environment equips students for success in a global community that is forever evolving.
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Location: Khalifa City
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
7. Repton School Abu Dhabi
A modern school with a traditional family feel, Repton School Abu Dhabi, is an extension of Repton School in the UK with 450 years of educational heritage. Offering the National Curriculum of the UK combined with the high standards of UAE, the school has world-class facilities. Students at Repton grow into self-assured adults. They develop a strong sense of curiosity, a love of learning, and a problem-solving approach that prepares them for the future world of work.
Curriculum: British
Location: Al Reem Island, Shams Abu Dhabi
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
8. The British International School
At the British International School in Khalifa City, the UK curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme provide a thorough education.The school is run by Nord Anglia Education and accommodates a multicultural student body from 75 different countries. The British International School prepares students for top colleges across the world.
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Location: Khalifa City
ADEK Rating: Very Good
9. The British School Al Khubairat
The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK), which has been a symbol of quality in education for more than 50 years, is a major institution in Abu Dhabi. BSAK is one of the most distinguished schools in the city, having been established in 1968 on land provided by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The school places a strong emphasis on staff and student wellbeing, with programmes that have earned recognition on a global scale. Students at this school benefit from an uplifting environment that has helped them get into highly selective universities like Stanford, Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge.
Curriculum: British
Location: Al Mushrif
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
10. Yasmina British Academy
Representing the UAE’s 2030 vision for a strong and forward-thinking approach towards shaping the future of learning, Yasmina British Academy, part of the Aldar Academies family, prides itself on comprehensive academic programmes and nurturing community, serving both local and international students. A great establishment for those seeking an excellent British education in Abu Dhabi, parents appreciate the school's high standards and pursuit of improvement.
Curriculum: British
Location: Khalifa City
ADEK Rating: Outstanding
Abu Dhabi's wide range of educational institutions promotes the growth of talented and well-accomplished individuals. These establishments provide a distinctive learning landscape that supports learners with the skills required for academic success and the ability to learn about one's self and the wisdom of life.
