welcome to the British International School Abu Dhabi

KEY FACTS ABOUT OUR SCHOOL

Application now open
Admissions open all year round
Tuition Fees
From AED54,204 per annum
Age range
From 3 to 18 years old
Curricula
Early Years Foundation Stage, National Curriculum for England, IGCSE and BTEC International Level 2, IB Diploma Programma and BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma
Nationalities
90+
Language of instruction
English

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PARENT TestimonialS

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BISAD is arguably the best school in Abu Dhabi. Apart from the academic accolades, it's the vibrant community that stands out.
Apostolos, Parent
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A great place to learn. The teachers are very kind, helpful and creative. Their teaching style is unique, and the classes are always fun and engaging. My son studies there and is doing very well. The sports facilities are excellent too. He enjoys learning at the school and feels happy and comfortable, just like at home.
Nehal, Parent
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An outstanding school that fosters a love for learning! The dedicated teachers, excellent curriculum and nurturing environment make it the perfect place for children to grow academically and personally. Highly recommended!
Amaria, Parent
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Moving from Korea to UAE last year brought many challenges, especially finding a suitable educational environment for our young children. We chose BIS Abu Dhabi, and it has exceeded our expectations. The faculty's dedication to holistic education and cultural inclusivity has made our children's transition seamless and joyful. We are grateful for the school's commitment to creating a nurturing and engaging educational atmosphere for all its students.
Sunglock, Parent
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Choosing BISAD was the best decision I've made for my daughter's education. She loves going to school and is always excited to learn new things, which means so much to me as a parent. The school offers a safe environment, a diverse community and an outstanding educational experience. Everyone at BISAD is welcoming and supportive. I couldn't wish for a better place for my daughter to grow, learn and enjoy the journey. At BISAD, the sky is the limit when it comes to learning.
Eman, Parent
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My 6‑year‑old son started at BIS Abu Dhabi in November 2024 when we moved from the UK. From the start, the Admissions team kept me well informed and supported throughout the process. On his first day, the school helped him settle in and ensured a smooth transition. He made friends straight away and continues to love coming to school. The facilities are excellent, the staff are well trained and supportive, and there is a strong sense of community. Thank you to all the staff!
Heenal, Parent
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For our family, BIS Abu Dhabi stands out because so much of life in expat communities is built upon recommendations. For key parts of life (job, school, where you live), the wrong choice can be the difference between staying in country or leaving. Therefore my recommendation of BISAD carries more weight than it would anywhere else, and it's built not only on my own impression and experience of the school, but also an awareness of the alternative school options in Abu Dhabi. BISAD has managed to retain the kind of community and family school feel that big schools can only dream of.
There's magic in those halls and, although it can be quickly lost, it's the kind of spirit that is slowly alchemised by staff, students and families alike, and is truly the most valuable asset for a great school.
Anonymous parent, Parent Survey, 2025/26
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As a parent, I rate BIS Abu Dhabi very highly because my children are happy, they are learning well, and they genuinely enjoy the activities provided at school. The environment is positive, supportive, and encourages their growth and wellbeing.
Anonymous parent, Parent Survey, 2025/26
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From our experience as a family, BIS Abu Dhabi stands out because my children have only been at the school a short time but in that time I have been hugely impressed by the staff and their support. You can see in the behaviours of the other children how the school upholds its values. The opportunities offered have been fantastic and I have been lucky enough to see the work two of my children have produced within their years and it has been marvellous. Parent inclusion is 10/10 too.
Anonymous parent, Parent Survey, 2025/26
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I would wholeheartedly recommend BIS Abu Dhabi because I’ve been extremely impressed with the quality of teaching, the supportive environment, and the wide range of opportunities offered to students. My child is thriving academically and socially, and the school community feels warm, inclusive and well-organised. Overall, it has been an excellent experience that I would confidently recommend to others.
Anonymous parent, Parent Survey, 2025/26
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For our family, BIS Abu Dhabi is the right choice because the school offers the best choices for my children in Senior years. The teachers have been amazing in supporting my children in the transition from the UK, they made lifetime friends and are doing very well.
Anonymous parent, Parent Survey, 2025/26
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Based on our experience, BIS Abu Dhabi earns the highest recommendation because the teachers are caring, attentive, and genuinely invested in each student’s progress. The school environment feels very safe and supportive, and communication with parents is always clear and timely. My child has shown remarkable academic and personal growth since joining, and the school provides a well-balanced approach that includes strong academics, emotional development, and diverse extracurricular opportunities.
Overall, I feel confident and grateful knowing my child is in a nurturing environment, and I would highly recommend BIS Abu Dhabi to friends, colleagues, and family.
Anonymous parent, Parent Survey, 2025/26
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Choosing BIS Abu Dhabi has made a real difference for us because the teachers and staff are friendly and truly enthusiastic about caring for the children. The school offers a great environment overall, especially the Eco Edventure Area where children can enjoy nature.
Anonymous parent, Parent Survey, 2025/26
Senior School
  • Senior School
  • Secondary
  • Primary
  • Early years

Our curricula

Our students follow the best in British and international curricula, including the English National Curriculum, Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE, International Baccalaureate (IB) and BTEC Diploma Programmes.

These qualifications set the standard for global education and provide pathways to higher education across the world.
curricula logo IB
16 to 18 years old
International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme
The pinnacle of international education, our IB Programme is the ideal springboard to the world’s top universities. Through a wide choice of subjects, leadership opportunities, and extraordinary learning experiences, the Full Diploma (IBDP) and IB Courses Programmes create successful, independent young people.
Find out more
The British International School Abu Dhabi | Nord Anglia - 05-Curricula Overview
16 to 18 years old
BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma
Our BTEC Business, IT and Sport programmes provide vocational pathways to university and beyond. They are perfect for students looking for a more immersive, practical experience. Developing our students' theoretical knowledge and practical skills, our BTEC courses offer the perfect blend of academic rigour and hands-on, real-world experiences.
FIND OUT MORE

our curricula

Our students follow the best in British and international curricula, including the English National Curriculum, Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and BTEC Diploma.

These qualifications set the standard for global education and provide pathways to higher education across the world.
curricula logo england curriculum
11 to 16 years old
English National Curriculum
Our secondary curriculum encourages our students to take on new challenges. Tailored learning experiences enable our students to pursue their passions, while expert teaching develops their knowledge in specialist subjects. Lessons challenge, engage and inspire, ensuring our students get outstanding IGCSE results.
FIND OUT MORE

our curricula

Our students follow the best in British and international curricula, including the English National Curriculum, Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and BTEC Diploma.

These qualifications set the standard for global education and provide pathways to higher education across the world.
curricula logo england curriculum
5 to 11 years old
English National Curriculum
Our Key Stage 1 and 2 curricula combine exceptional teaching in the core subjects with an astonishing variety of fun activities, trips, and hands-on projects. Our teachers will spark your child’s imagination, supporting them to become confident, curious, creative learners.
Find out more

OUR CURRICULA

Our students follow the best in British and international curricula, including the English National Curriculum, Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel IGCSE, International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) and BTEC Diploma.

These qualifications set the standard for global education and provide pathways to higher education across the world.
The British International School Abu Dhabi | Nord Anglia - 05-Curricula Overview
3 to 5 years old
Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Our curriculum is delivered through structured, multi-sensory play, where your child will sing, dance, swim, experiment, paint, read, explore and so much more. Hitting the seven EYFS areas of development, our littlest learners get the best possible start to their education.
Find out more
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DISCOVERING TALENTS, IGNITING PASSIONS

At BIS Abu Dhabi, there really is an activity for everyone. We run more than 100 co-curricular clubs that will nurture your child’s talents and passions.
Learn More About Co-Curricular Activities
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Performing arts
Our world-leading performing arts programme – delivered in collaboration with The Juilliard School – puts our students in the spotlight.
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Performing arts

From an early age, we encourage all our students to express their creativity. Drama, dance, and music enrich our students’ experience, and are delivered by specialist teachers in purpose-built spaces.

Our creative after-school clubs offer a myriad of exciting opportunities. Your child can audition for our chamber orchestra, join one of our dance groups or – for our born entertainers and aspiring pop stars – have fun with friends at our lip sync battle club.

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Sports
Your child will compete in local and national competitions, get fit and healthy, and try new activities in our outstanding sports facilities.
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STEAM
Our STEAM programme will inspire your child to imagine a world of infinite possibilities, cultivating their creativity, curiosity, and confidence.
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STEAM

Our STEAM programme in collaboration with MIT develops students who can solve problems, work together, and challenge the norm.

In our dedicated STEAM lab, students strive to solve some of the trickiest puzzles facing the world today. Our STEAM collaboration days deliver university standard learning experiences, where your child will work on challenges set by MIT professors.

After-school activities include our fun Lego robotics club, where students learn about computer programming, how machines work, and develop their reasoning skills.

The British International School Abu Dhabi | Nord Anglia - 04 - Feature Cards Pattern - Creativity and Culture
The Duke of Edinburgh's Award
On the world’s leading youth achievement programme, your child will do what they love, try something new, and make a real contribution to our community.
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The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award

We encourage all our students to take part in The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. The Award supports our holistic educational approach and complements the activities your child will do through our BISAD Diploma programme.

As part of the Award, each student sets their own goals and challenges. They can choose to do what they enjoy or try something different. They also work on social responsibility projects that help others. As they progress, students develop resilience, learn more about themselves, and grow in confidence.

Students with their hands up in class
French and Spanish Mother Tongue Programmes
Our FLAM (French) and ELM (Spanish) Mother Tongue Programmes offer native-speaking students dedicated language support that builds proficiency, cultural connection, and readiness for future academic pathways.
Two students practicing greetings in language class
French and Spanish Mother Tongue Programmes

Our FLAM (French) and ELM (Spanish) Mother Tongue Programmes support native-speaking students in maintaining and strengthening their language proficiency while staying connected to their cultural identity. Led by qualified specialists, the programmes follow international standards, including the objectives of the French Ministry of National Education for FLAM, and offer level‑appropriate study in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through authentic texts and engaging cultural content. 

Both programmes also help students maintain academic continuity, whether they plan to return to a Francophone or Spanish-speaking education system, pursue bilingual pathways such as the IB Diploma, or prepare for language certifications. Integrated into the school day and supported by select after‑school sessions, FLAM and ELM provide a consistent, nurturing environment where students can develop confidently. 

These are optional fee‑based programmes that provide enhanced, specialised instruction beyond the core curriculum. 

Girl student holds up Portugal flag in language class
Academic Enrichment
Through our broad range of academic support and clubs, our students strengthen their skills, deepening their knowledge and academic competencies.
Two students conducting experiment in biology class
Academic Enrichment

Our academic enrichment programme gives students the chance to extend their learning beyond the classroom. Through activities such as Model United Nations, support classes, masterclasses, and targeted exam‑paper practice for Years 10–13, students deepen their subject understanding and build the skills needed to excel. 

These opportunities help learners develop confidence in public speaking, explore global issues, strengthen their academic interests, and prepare effectively for their IGCSE and IBDP assessments, ensuring they achieve the best possible outcomes in their examination years and beyond. 

Student in an BIS Abu Dhabi art IBDP lesson

JOIN OUR INCLUSIVE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

We’re delighted you’re considering The British International School Abu Dhabi for your child’s education. Your journey starts with our warm and welcoming admissions team, who will guide you through our application process.
  • Get in touch with us today – we’ll explain what you need to do and answer any questions.
  • Come and visit our international school in Abu Dhabi or or sign up for a virtual discovery meeting (instead of virtual tour)
  • Send us your application form and supporting documents. Your child will then be asked to do a short assessment.
  • All being well, our admissions team will confirm your child’s place, and send you an offer of enrolment.

STEP-BY-STEP ADMISSIONS PROCESS

Ready to start your child’s enrolment journey? Here’s what you need to do.
Make an enquiry
Get in touch with our admissions team to let us know you’re interested in joining the BIS Abu Dhabi family. We can answer any questions, discuss your situation, and confirm whether we have places available.
enquire now
Make an enquiry
Exploring BIS Abu Dhabi with Our Admissions Officer
Join us for a tour
The best way to get a feel for our inclusive school community is to take a tour of our campus. If you’re not in Abu Dhabi, you can meet us online.
join us for a tour
Send us your application
We accept applications all year round. We promise to get back to you within 24 hours (excluding weekends and national holidays) of receiving your form.
Apply now
send us your application
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Assessment
Every child who joins us takes a short assessment, which vary by age. This may include testing your child’s English language fluency, writing, and cognitive skills.
assessment
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Finalising your place
You’re almost there! Once you’ve completed the first four steps – and if our school is the right match – we’ll offer you a place. We’ll send you an offer of enrolment to sign, too.
finalising your place
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Getting started
Once your child’s place is confirmed, we’ll make sure they get a warm welcome.
Getting started

EXCEPTIONAL LEARNING EXPERIENCE

At Nord Anglia Education, we inspire curiosity and innovative thinking in our students - giving them the tools and skills to succeed. Our educational approach uses our global reach, enabled by world-class technology, to bring our students truly transformational learning experiences.

The Juilliard School
Our collaboration with the world leader in performing arts nurtures our students’ love of drama and music.
MIT
The MIT-Nord Anglia STEAM programme develops our students’ problem-solving skills through real-world challenges that get them thinking outside the box.
UNICEF
Students are challenged to make a difference both locally and internationally, working together to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
IMG Academy
IMG Academy's sports and wellbeing programme helps students build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills through world-class athletic training, personal development, and elite coaching.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

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