Top British & UK-Curriculum Schools in Abu Dhabi
2025
British curriculum schools in Abu Dhabi offer expatriate and local families the backbone of the National Curriculum of England, guiding students through Key Stages, IGCSEs and A-Levels. These schools often integrate global perspectives, co-curricular breadth, and a strong ethos of community and character development.
BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL, ABU DHABI (BISAD)
The British International School Abu Dhabi, part of Nord Anglia Education, delivers the UK National Curriculum from Early Years to Sixth Form, leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels. The school is well regarded for its international outlook, modern campus, and strong university pathways.
KEY FACTS
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Established: 2009
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Age range: 3 to 18 years (Nursery–Year 13)
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Curriculum: UK National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-Levels
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Accreditations: Council of International Schools (CIS), Cambridge International
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Facilities: Purpose-built campus with science labs, theatre, sports halls, swimming pools
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Highlights: High A-Level results, extensive co-curricular programme, strong global university placements
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CRANLEIGH ABU DHABI
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi, a sister school of the prestigious UK boarding school, offers a holistic British education with a strong emphasis on character, creativity, and community. Its broad curriculum and green campus make it popular among families seeking both tradition and innovation.
KEY FACTS:
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Established: 2017
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Age range: FS1–Year 13
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Curriculum: UK National Curriculum, IGCSE, A-Levels
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Accreditations: BSO, CIS
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Facilities: Arts centre, sports pitches, science labs, performing arts spaces
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Highlights: Strong pastoral support, balance of academics and co-curriculars, British heritage with UAE roots
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REPTON SCHOOL ABU DHABI
Repton Abu Dhabi blends the strengths of a British curriculum school with international perspectives. Offering both IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, it prepares students for top global universities while fostering creativity and leadership.
Key Facts:
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Established: 2013
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Age range: FS1–Year 13
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Curriculum: UK National Curriculum, IGCSE, IB Diploma
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Accreditations: CIS, IB World School
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Facilities: Innovative learning spaces, sports courts, library, STEAM labs
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Highlights: Global Repton network, choice of pathways (A-Levels / IB), focus on digital learning
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The UK National Curriculum is divided into Key Stages: Early Years, Key Stages 1–5, culminating in IGCSEs (Key Stage 4) and A-Levels (Key Stage 5). These qualifications are recognized globally, facilitating entry into universities in the UK, US, Australia, and beyond.
Families often choose British curriculum schools for:
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Structured progression and predictability
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Strong emphasis on core subjects + breadth (arts, languages, sports)
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Quality of teacher training and alignment to UK standards
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Recognition by universities globally
Do British schools in Abu Dhabi accept students who are not from the UK?
Yes. British schools in Abu Dhabi are highly international, welcoming children from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Many also offer English as an Additional Language (EAL) programmes to support non-native speakers.
How much are the tuition fees at British schools in Abu Dhabi?
Annual fees generally range from AED 40,000 to AED 100,000+, depending on the year group, facilities, and reputation of the school. Additional charges may apply for registration, transport, uniforms, and extracurricular activities.
| SCHOOL | GRADE LEVELS / YEAR GROUPS | APPROXIMATE FEES (AED) |
| The British International School, Abu Dhabi | FS1 – Year 13 | 50,000 – 95,000 |
| Cranleigh Abu Dhabi | FS1 – Year 13 | 45,000 – 100,000 |
| Repton School Abu Dhabi | FS1 – Year 13 | 40,000 – 85,000 |
| Al Yasmina Academy (Aldar Academies) | FS1 – Year 13 | 42,000 – 85,000 |
(Figures are indicative, rounded, and subject to annual review by ADEK and the schools.)
What is the difference between A-Levels and the IB Diploma?
A-Levels allow students to specialise in a smaller number of subjects, offering depth and focus, while the IB Diploma requires a broader combination of six subjects plus core elements. Both are recognised by top universities worldwide.
How can parents apply to schools in Abu Dhabi?
Applications are usually open year-round, though places in popular year groups can be competitive. Parents are advised to apply early, prepare the necessary documentation, and arrange school tours before making a decision.
What qualifications do students graduate with from British schools in Abu Dhabi?
Students typically sit IGCSEs at age 16 and A-Levels at age 18. Some British schools also provide the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma as an alternative Sixth Form pathway.