Abu Dhabi International School vs Al Nahda National Schools

	A Abu Dhabi International School Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates	A Al Nahda National Schools Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 26,275 - 50,350	Fees / year AED 17,730 - 33,020
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 4 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Boys School, Girls School
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 3,500	Pupils 5,800
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1992	Opened 1983
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location AIS operates across two campuses in Abu Dhabi: the AD Campus is located on Al Karama Street in the Abu Dhabi City area, and the MBZ Campus is in Mohammed Bin Zayed City. The AD Campus address places it in a central Abu Dhabi neighbourhood, while the MBZ Campus serves families in the northern part of the emirate. The school arranges a two-way bus service with routes that reach multiple areas, including Abu Dhabi City limits, Shamkha, Reem Island, Yas Island, Khalifa City, and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.	Location Al Nahda National Schools are located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The schools operate two campuses: the Girls' School and the Boys' School. The mailing address is P.O. Box 815, Abu Dhabi. The schools are licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education.
Stages	Stages AIS offers Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, and High School, with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) available for Grades 11–12. The school operates across two campuses with programs aligned to K-12 education and IB pathways.	Stages Two campuses serve different year groups. Girls in Kindergarten to Grade 3 attend the Girls' School; girls in Grades 4-12 also attend the Girls' School. Boys in Grades 4-12 attend the Boys' School.
School type	School type AIS is a private, international, day school that is co-educational. The two campuses are located in Abu Dhabi City and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.	School type ANNS is a private, fee-paying day school with two single-sex campuses (the Girls' School and the Boys' School). There are no boarding facilities listed.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix AIS represents around 60 nationalities across approximately 3,500 students across its two campuses. The school notes a diverse international community, with a proportion of students and staff from many national backgrounds; local-to-international ratios are not published.	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support AIS provides a comprehensive Student Support Services program, including Counseling, Special Education services, Enrichment for gifted and talented students, Academic support, English Language Learner services, and Social and Emotional Learning programs.	Additional learning support The school provides support for students with learning difficulties. It also offers programs for gifted and talented students.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; AIS is licensed by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education (ADEK framework) and operates as a UAE-based international school.	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation listed. The school operates in the UAE and offers American and British curricula.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated. AIS emphasizes diversity and inclusion across a multicultural student body.	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is listed.
School day structure	School day structure Exact start and end times vary by campus and grade level. The Academic Calendar for 2025–2026 is published by AIS, and admissions hours are typically 8:00–15:00 on weekdays, with shorter hours on Fridays.	School day structure The administration offices operate Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 to 15:00 and Friday from 8:00 to 12:00. The site does not publish fixed start and end times for the school day.
Bus service details	Bus service details AIS offers a two-way bus service with separate PS, KG and Prep afternoon routes, and separate morning/afternoon routes for Grades 1–12 as needed. Pick-up locations include Abu Dhabi City Limits, Shamkha, Reem Island, Mohammad Bin Zayed City, Shabiya, Khalifa City, Yas Island, and other areas. The annual bus fee is AED 4,950, including a non-refundable AED 500 registration, and registrations are on a first-come, first-served basis.	Bus service details ANNS offers a school transportation service. Sign up for transport is completed through the re-registration process. If pickup details change, guardians must update them; only listed guardians may collect a child. A bus supervisor oversees pickups and drop-offs.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration fees - The tuition schedule lists a non-refundable registration fee of AED 1,500 per student. - The school's Tuition Fee Policy states that the registration fee (and the re‑registration fee) is normally calculated as 5% of the yearly tuition and is deductible from the student's final tuition fees for the academic year; specific refund conditions for registration and re‑registration are set out in the policy. Tuition fees by year group (MBZ Campus — full year, books, total and three term instalments) - S‑NY: Tuition AED 25,000; Books AED 1,275; Total fees AED 26,275; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 11,275, 2nd AED 7,500, 3rd AED 6,000. - KG: Tuition AED 31,800; Books AED 1,835; Total fees AED 33,635; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 14,555, 2nd AED 9,540, 3rd AED 8,040. - Prep: Tuition AED 31,800; Books AED 1,965; Total fees AED 33,765; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 14,685, 2nd AED 9,540, 3rd AED 8,040. - Grade 1: Tuition AED 37,200; Books AED 2,300; Total fees AED 39,500; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,180, 2nd AED 11,160, 3rd AED 9,660. - Grade 2: Tuition AED 37,200; Books AED 1,900; Total fees AED 39,100; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 16,780, 2nd AED 11,160, 3rd AED 9,660. - Grade 3: Tuition AED 38,850; Books AED 2,000; Total fees AED 40,850; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,540, 2nd AED 11,655, 3rd AED 10,155. - Grade 4: Tuition AED 38,850; Books AED 1,800; Total fees AED 40,650; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,340, 2nd AED 11,655, 3rd AED 10,155. - Grade 5: Tuition AED 40,500; Books AED 1,800; Total fees AED 42,300; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 18,000, 2nd AED 12,150, 3rd AED 10,650. - Grade 6: Tuition AED 40,500; Books AED 1,700; Total fees AED 42,200; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,900, 2nd AED 12,150, 3rd AED 10,650. - Grade 7: Tuition AED 43,000; Books AED 2,200; Total fees AED 45,200; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 19,400, 2nd AED 12,900, 3rd AED 11,400. - Grade 8: Tuition AED 43,000; Books AED 2,200; Total fees AED 45,200; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 19,400, 2nd AED 12,900, 3rd AED 11,400. - Grade 9: Tuition AED 45,450; Books AED 2,700; Total fees AED 48,150; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 20,880, 2nd AED 13,635, 3rd AED 12,135. - Grade 10: Tuition AED 45,450; Books AED 2,500; Total fees AED 47,950; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 20,680, 2nd AED 13,635, 3rd AED 12,135. - Grade 11: Tuition AED 47,950; Books AED 2,400; Total fees AED 50,350; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 21,580, 2nd AED 14,385, 3rd AED 12,885. - Grade 12: Tuition AED 47,950; Books AED 2,000; Total fees AED 49,950; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 21,180, 2nd AED 14,385, 3rd AED 12,885. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school divides the total annual tuition into three termly instalments. Term 1 covers September–December (4 months), Term 2 covers January–March (3 months) and Term 3 covers April–June (3 months). The standard due dates for the three term invoices are 1 August (Term 1), 1 December (Term 2) and 1 March (Term 3). A full‑year invoice can be issued on request with a due date of 1 August. - Tuition may be paid in three instalments; uniforms and books may only be collected after presentation/clearance of all three instalments. Students will not be enrolled if payments are not made. The school may suspend students, withhold reports or block re‑enrolment for unpaid fees following the stated late‑payment procedures. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. Abu Dhabi International School is a K–12 day school. Other costs and fees - Bus transport and uniform costs are not included in the tuition figures shown and are charged separately. Extra fees apply for special education services where required. - A separate IB Diploma Programme (DP) official examination fee of AED 3,500 is charged in Grade 12 for IBDP students; this fee is subject to adjustment. Refunds and withdrawal terms - Registration fee refund: the policy permits the registration fee to be refundable for new students if written notification is provided at least two weeks prior to the start of the new academic year (deadline stated as 15 August). Re‑registration refunds must be requested on or before 30 June. - Tuition retention on withdrawal: if a student attends up to part of the first week of term and then discontinues without sufficient written notification, the school may retain up to 5% of the annual tuition. If a student attends one to three weeks in a term, the school will retain one full month's tuition; attendance over three to six weeks leads to retention of two months' tuition; attendance beyond six weeks leads to retention of the full term fee. Refunds are otherwise handled according to ADEK rules and the school's published policy. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods include online payment link, bank transfer, cheque, cash, credit card and the PayNest mobile application. Returned cheque bank charges will be charged to the parent. Notes - The annual figures above are shown for the MBZ Campus fee schedule for the 2025–26 academic year and include the listed book charge; bus, uniform and other ancillary charges are additional. Instalment amounts and totals are those published in the school's published fee schedule.	Fee details Application and registration fees - A non‑refundable registration/seat‑reservation fee is charged on offer acceptance; the school applies a registration/re‑registration charge equal to 5% of the annual tuition fee (adjustable and then deducted against the tuition invoice). Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts in AED) - Kindergarten 2 (age 4): AED 17,730 (this total comprises Tuition AED 15,650 plus Books AED 2,080). - Kindergarten 3 (age 5): AED 17,730. - Grade 1 (age 6): AED 21,910. - Grade 2 (age 7): AED 21,910. - Grade 3 (age 8): AED 22,000. - Grade 4 (age 9): AED 23,030. - Grade 5 (age 10): AED 23,030. - Grade 6 (age 11): AED 23,030. - Grade 7 (age 12): AED 25,180. - Grade 8 (age 13): AED 25,180. - Grade 9 (age 14): AED 30,060. - Grade 10 (age 15): AED 33,020. - Grade 11 (age 16): AED 33,020. - Grade 12 (age 17): AED 33,020. Per‑term breakdown (three instalments) - The school issues tuition invoices in three termly instalments. The per‑term amounts below are shown as equal, termly instalments (annual fee divided by three) for reference. See the annual amounts above for full‑year totals. - Kindergarten 2 / Kindergarten 3: AED 5,910 per term. - Grade 1 / Grade 2: AED 7,303 per term. - Grade 3: AED 7,333 per term. - Grade 4 / Grade 5 / Grade 6: AED 7,677 per term. - Grade 7 / Grade 8: AED 8,393 per term. - Grade 9: AED 10,020 per term. - Grade 10 / Grade 11 / Grade 12: AED 11,007 per term. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed on a term basis and payments are expected according to the school's term calendar (three instalments across the academic year). Term invoices are issued at the start of each term and parents must settle the invoices or provide the required post‑dated cheques / payment arrangements by the stated due dates. - The registration/re‑registration charge (5% of annual tuition) is payable on offer acceptance and is adjusted against the tuition invoice for the year. - Outstanding fees from a previous year must be settled before re‑registration will be accepted. Boarding fees - Al Nahda National Schools operate as day schools. There is no boarding or hostel provision; all students are day pupils. Other costs and typical additional charges - School transport: typical annual charge AED 4,500 (transport availability and final route fees are confirmed at registration). - Books and learning resources: typical range AED 910 to AED 2,080 per year depending on grade; for early years the prospectus itemises a separate books charge (see K2 breakdown above). Digital learning resources are included within tuition and are processed as part of re‑registration. - Uniform: a typical uniform charge is shown around AED 250 (varies by campus/grade and by required items). - Examination / external assessment fees and optional activity charges: these are charged separately where applicable (year‑group and subject dependent). Refund information - The registration/re‑registration charge is treated as non‑refundable and is adjusted against tuition when the place is accepted. Security deposits (where required by other institutions) are normally refundable on leaving after due adjustments; standard ADEK‑aligned refund practices apply to deposits and fee refunds. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods include bank transfer, cheque and cash; the school also provides online payment capability for registration and invoices via the parent portal. Payment by card or instalment facilities may be available through the school's payment channels or approved third‑party providers — confirm with the school finance office when arranging payment. Notes - Fees differ by campus and by curriculum offered (American vs British routes); annual fee levels above are those published for the current academic year and are shown by year group.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements AIS is a private, coeducational K-12 day school with two campuses in MBZ City and Abu Dhabi City, and a planned third campus in Saadiyat. Boarding is not offered, as the institution operates as a day school. AIS provides a two-way bus service for students, with PS/KG and Prep routes separate from Grades 1–12 for afternoon trips, and Grade 1–12 buses that may operate in the morning and/or afternoon depending on demand. The annual bus charge is AED 4,950 (including a non-refundable AED 500 registration fee), and routes cover multiple locations around Abu Dhabi with registration on a first-come, first-served basis.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement AIS requires all students to wear the full AIS uniform. For boys, the dress code specifies AIS uniform trousers and shirt with the AIS jacket, plain white undershirts, plain black or white shoes, and white socks, with hair neatly groomed and facial hair not allowed. For girls, the dress code requires AIS uniform trousers/shirt with the AIS jacket, plain white undershirts, hair tied back, veils permitted in white/blue/grey/black, makeup and nail polish not allowed, and only a single stud per ear. Uniforms (including polo shirts for events) can be ordered online via the parent portal and collected from the school uniform store.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options AIS maintains a canteen that provides healthy, nutrient-rich meals in line with Abu Dhabi guidelines. Parents are encouraged to pack healthy meals for their child, and items such as nuts are prohibited; external food deliveries are not allowed during school hours. The school emphasizes hydration, with water available on site and students encouraged to bring a water bottle.	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership AIS is a private, MOE-licensed day school operating from two campuses (AD City and MBZ City) with a planned third campus in Saadiyat. Governance is provided by a formal structure that includes a Board of Trustees, a Parent Committee, a Student Council, and school leadership, reflecting a multi-body governance model within the AIS family.	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Trustees. It is licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education. It operates two campuses, the Girls' School and the Boys' School, and was established in 1983 as a private English‑medium school offering American and British programs. It holds accreditation from NEASC, CIS, ECIS, Cambridge International Examinations, Pearson Edexcel, and SAT. The Board's officers include Saeed Al Junaibi (General Manager and Director General), Amal Saeed Abdulla Al Junaibi (Information Technology Consultant), Basma Saeed Abdulla Naser Al Junaibi (Deputy General), Adnan Issa Abbas (Educational Consultant and Director General Assistant); the school's Principals are Salma Sidqi Eid (Girls School) and Ahlam Abou Radi (Boys School).
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details AIS offers a tri-path curriculum: the American Program with AP, the British Program with IGCSE and AS/A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), with the DP available at the MBZ campus for Grades 11–12 and the British/American tracks running through Grades 9–12 (IGCSE in Grade 10; AS/A Levels in Grades 11–12; AP in Grades 11–12). Kindergarten (ages 3–5) uses a play-based, inquiry-driven approach with the sMiles phonics program to support early English and Arabic literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development. Elementary School (Grades 1–5) emphasizes CCSS and NGSS-aligned learning, with core English, Math, Science plus Arabic/French language development, ICT, and STEM. Middle School (Grades 6–8) expands to English, Science, Math, Social Studies, Moral Education, Performing and Visual Arts, PE, Arabic/French, ICT, and Islamic Studies, with counseling services. High School (Grades 9–12) provides American, British, or IB pathways: AP courses in the American track, IGCSE in Grade 10 followed by AS/A Levels in Grades 11–12 for the British track, and the IB Diploma Programme for eligible students.	Curriculum details Al Nahda National Schools (ANNS) offer two international curricula on its Abu Dhabi campuses: the British Program aligned with the Cambridge International Curriculum and the American Program aligned with US standards. The curriculum encompasses Languages, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Information Technology, Islamic Studies, Physical Education, Music, Drama and Art, with English as the language of instruction. The Girls School site states kindergarten through grade 12, with the Primary division KG–Grade 6 and the Secondary division Grades 7–12, and notes that boys transfer to the Boys' campus after Grade 3. In the British Program, Cambridge IGCSE examinations are taken in Grades 9–10 with Arabic and Islamic Studies mandatory; students may choose from English (First/Second Language), English Literature, IT, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Accounting, Business Studies, French, Urdu and Art & Design. Under the American Program, the curriculum aligns with the Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics, uses New Generation Standards for Science, and follows MOE standards for Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies, with Advanced Placement (AP) examinations available and Pearson Edexcel IAL offered for senior levels. ANNS uses English as the primary medium of instruction.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning AIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through dedicated programs designed to develop self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making. The AIS Inclusion Services page explicitly lists Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs as a core component of student support. The AIS Student Support Services Department provides services designed to support students academically, socially, and emotionally, including counseling services. Counseling services are provided by counselors or psychologists to support students who may be struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, or other personal issues. SEL initiatives are integrated within the school's inclusive framework to promote well-being and positive relationships among students.	Social & emotional learning Al Nahda National Schools place wellbeing at the heart of its learning environment. The Wellbeing section specifies a safe, caring atmosphere that supports the development of self-image and respect for self and others, and it promotes moral values such as respect, tolerance, integrity, compassion, equality and care as the basis of relationships. The school also emphasises holistic development through a Lifelong Learning framework that includes opportunities to develop 21st‑century skills and to provide support for students with learning difficulties, alongside encouragement for gifted and talented students. A pastoral and social support network, described by school leaders as ensuring students feel valued beyond academics, supports social–emotional growth. Leadership narratives highlight the aim of nurturing social and emotional intelligence as part of preparing students to be global citizens. Programs and activities beyond the classroom are used to foster resilience and personal development.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AIS offers Special Education services to students with disabilities to ensure appropriate accommodations and support. The program includes speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. The school uses inclusive approaches such as full mainstreaming, adaptive classes, partial mainstreaming, and progressive mainstreaming to place students in learning environments that meet their needs. The AIS Inclusion Program has been recognized by ADEK as an outstanding program and best practice. The curriculum is described as increasingly individualized for SEN and Gifted & Talented (G&T) students.	Special educational needs (SEN) Al Nahda National Schools describe themselves as mainstream private English‑medium schools offering American and British curricula, not as specialist SEN institutions. They state that they provide support for students with learning difficulties and offer encouragement for gifted and talented students as part of an inclusive approach. The inclusion framework is reflected in policy materials that include Student Protection, Safeguarding and Inclusion, indicating an all‑through school approach rather than a dedicated SEN provision. The school's policies reference inclusion of diverse learner needs, including Students of Determination and Gifted and Talented as part of their policy framework. The school is licensed by ADEK and the UAE Ministry of Education and operates across two campuses (Girls' and Boys'), reinforcing its mainstream, non‑specialist SEN status within a broad international program context.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language AIS provides English Language Learner (ELL) services as part of its ESL Services to support students learning English as a second language. The ESL program is designed to provide individualized instruction and support to help students improve their English language skills. AIS notes that many students come from non-English speaking backgrounds and may need additional support to master English. ESL specialists work with students to ensure progress toward required curricular expectations. ESL/ELL services are integrated within the AIS Inclusion Services framework.	English as an additional language The school is described as an English‑medium private school, delivering instruction in English within both American and British programs. Public disclosure of explicit EAL programs, staffing, or dedicated EAL initiatives is not provided in publicly accessible materials. The information available focuses on its curricula, accreditation and inclusion policies rather than specific English‑as‑an‑additional‑language supports. Consequently, there are no detailed publicly disclosed EAL provisions to reference. The English‑medium status, however, underpins the language of instruction across the school's programs.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Counselling Services at AIS emphasizes that mental health involves more than the absence of illness and includes the development of self-esteem, confidence, empathy, positive peer relationships, coping skills, and adaptability. Mental health activities are designed to promote positive well-being because it is crucial to learning and achievement. The counselors are fully certified to provide confidential individual and group sessions, as well as counseling-related programs. The mission is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment that fosters holistic development and well-being. Counseling aims to support students in achieving both academic and personal success.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the school's wellbeing commitments and values, including a safe and caring learning environment and moral foundations such as respect, empathy and resilience. The pastoral and social support networks are described as ensuring students feel valued, with leadership emphasizing social‑emotional development and wellbeing as part of the learning journey. The Wellbeing statements include fostering self‑image, respect for self and others, and the development of global citizenship with empathy and care as core values. The school also highlights leadership and staff roles dedicated to supporting students' social and emotional growth beyond academic achievement. Curricular and co‑curricular activities are leveraged to reinforce wellbeing alongside academic learning.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding AIS has a Student Protection Policy that prioritizes safeguarding by protecting students from maltreatment and ensuring their safety. The policy defines roles such as the Child Protection Coordinator and mandates that all staff and volunteers are mandated reporters of suspected maltreatment. The policy enforces a zero-tolerance approach toward maltreatment and requires reporting to authorities as applicable. Concerns must be reported to the CPC and, where required, to the ADEK Child Protection Unit (CPU) within 24 hours. The policy aligns with UAE laws including Wadeema and related child protection regulations.	Safeguarding Al Nahda National Schools commit to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students, with recruitment and staff vetting aligned to safeguarding requirements. A Child Safeguarding Policy is referenced on the Careers page, alongside a broader policy framework containing Student Protection and Safeguarding policies. The policy manuals for both Boys and Girls schools include sections such as Student Protection and Safeguarding, indicating formal safeguarding governance. Public materials show the school maintains formal mechanisms to address safeguarding concerns and protect students. These safeguarding provisions are in addition to ADEK/MOE licensing and accreditation obligations governing the two campuses.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The AIS operates two contemporary campuses in MBZ City and Abu Dhabi City, with a third campus planned for Saadiyat. AIS has approximately 3,500 students across its two locations. The campus features a well-stocked library, a spacious theatre, vibrant play zones, a sparkling science laboratory, and fully equipped sports grounds. AIS provides dedicated spaces on campus for co-curricular activities.	Facilities overview The school has two campuses in Abu Dhabi: the Girls' School and the Boys' School. It offers excellent facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities AIS offers a range of sports teams that include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. Varsity level teams compete against other schools in the region. The teams have won championships over the years. The campus includes fully equipped sports grounds to support physical education and training.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The AIS campuses feature a well-stocked library and a spacious theatre. There is a sparkling science laboratory on campus. There are vibrant play zones and other dedicated spaces on campus to support the broader curriculum. Two contemporary campuses host the full academic program, with a third campus planned for Saadiyat.	Academic facilities ANNS is an English-medium school in Abu Dhabi offering both British and American programs. The curriculum includes languages, mathematics, sciences, humanities, information technology, Islamic studies, physical education, music, drama and art. The school is licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education. Accreditation includes NEASC, CIS, ECIS, Cambridge International Examinations, Pearson Edexcel and the SAT College Board.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities AIS offers a broad suite of co- and extra-curricular activities with dedicated spaces on campus. Sports and varsity teams include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field, with regional competitions and championships. Theatrical productions provide opportunities for acting, set design, and stage management, with public performances and regional recognition. Visual arts, science and engineering clubs, robotics, sustainability initiatives, and life skills programs broaden student learning. A community service program engages students in local volunteering.	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a variety of enriching and stimulating extra-curricular activities. The aim is to provide opportunities for students to engage beyond academics and develop 21st-century skills.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History AIS was founded in 1982 by Mrs. Jihan Nasr as a private, fully licensed coeducational K-12 school operating in a villa. In 1992 AIS opened its Abu Dhabi Campus, and a formal Parent Committee was established to involve parents in governance. By the 1990s the school had grown to over 300 students and expanded to two villas. In 2005, under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, AIS received praise for academic excellence while integrating sustainability and inclusion. AIS later opened the MBZ Campus in 2015, and today the school serves students and staff from more than 70 nationalities across two campuses, with a third campus planned on Al Saadiyat.	History Al Nahda National Schools (ANNS) was established in 1983 in Abu Dhabi as a private English-medium school to provide international education through its American and British programs. The school is licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education, and it operates on two campuses—the Girls' School and the Boys' School. It serves a diverse student body of nearly 5,800 students and has built a framework of international accreditation with CIS (since 2009), ECIS, NEASC, Cambridge International Examinations, Edexcel, and the SAT College Board. The late founder and General Manager, Mr. Saeed Abdullah Nasser Al-Junaibi, established ANNS and guided its early growth, emphasizing English language proficiency, Emirati identity, and broad engagement with the education community, including hosting notable visitors such as Muhammad Ali.
Community	Community AIS has an international community with students and staff from around 60 nationalities across its two campuses in MBZ City and Abu Dhabi City. The AIS family emphasizes ongoing engagement with parents and the wider community through a formal Parent Committee and a Student Council, guiding decisions and representing parents at events and external evaluations. The school hosts a range of community and cultural events, including Emirati Women's Day workshops, the Annual University Fair, and the Student Council Presidential Debate, as well as activities such as UAE Civil Aviation Day and visits from authorities. These programs reflect a commitment to inclusion, service, and civic learning within the school community.	Community ANNS has a diverse student community representing multiple nationalities, reflecting its international orientation. Students and staff participate in national and cultural events; for example, National Day celebrations have featured ANNS performances such as the Al Yolla traditional dance and national poetry readings. Core school life includes annual events such as science fairs, graduation ceremonies, and Heritage Nights Festivals. The school emphasizes ongoing engagement with families and the broader community, as evidenced by the founder's emphasis on parent communication and partnerships with parents.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Committee is an official body established to involve AIS parents in school governance, with origins dating back to the early years of the school when the first classroom session in 1982 encouraged parent engagement. The Committee comprises a core body of permanent members and a volunteer roster, and parents can participate as Volunteers or Members, with roles including attending meetings, supervising events, and supporting school initiatives. The Committee represents all parents at official school events, external evaluation visits, and other required meetings, providing regular communication and feedback to the administration. Parents can apply to join the Committee through the AIS portal, and the group coordinates outings, events, and curriculum-related activities such as Career Days and chaperoned trips. The Policy for the Parent Committee formalizes its governance, responsibilities, and relationship with the school.	Parent teacher association Publicly published materials do not describe a formal Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at ANNS. A Parents Portal provides a channel for parent communications with the school. The founder emphasized ongoing communication with parents and described parents as partners in their children's upbringing. The school notes active family engagement through events and ceremonies such as National Day celebrations and graduations, and maintains an Alumni program to reconnect graduates and to support current students. Alumni engagement is organized through an Alumni Sign Up process and related outreach. Overall, parent involvement is framed as a partnership rather than a formal PTA body.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers science and engineering programs with science and engineering clubs to foster student inquiry. The robotics program teaches programming, problem-solving, and teamwork and participates in regional and national competitions. Students engage in hands-on projects and experiments through science and engineering activities.	Academic & intellectual Al Nahda National Schools offer both American and British Curricula with English as the medium of instruction. The programs cover a broad range of subjects including Languages, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Information Technology, Islamic Studies, Physical Education, Music, Drama & Art. The Boys School serves Grades 4-12 and the Girls School KG-12, with enrollment of 2,224 and 3,576 students respectively. ANNS is accredited by NEASC, CIS, ECIS, CAIE, Pearson Edexcel and SAT, and emphasizes 21st-century learning with co-curricular activities.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Theatrical productions provide opportunities to act, design sets, and manage stages; productions are well-known for their high quality and have won regional and national awards. The visual arts program covers drawing, painting, ceramics, and sculpture, and students showcase their work in exhibitions and shows throughout the year. Dedicated spaces at the campus support these activities.	Arts & creative Music, Drama & Art are part of the curriculum. Arts education supports creative development and complements academic study.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language The British and American Curricula are offered, with a focus on global citizenship and cultural awareness. The American curriculum aligns with Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics; the British curriculum aligns with Cambridge International Curriculum. National Day and Cultural Evenings are celebrated as part of school life.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies AIS runs sports and varsity teams, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field, with teams competing regionally. The school hosts theatrical productions and a visual arts program as part of the co- and extra-curriculars, offering opportunities to perform, create, and exhibit. The programs emphasize creativity, community involvement, and skill development.	Social & hobbies Extracurricular activities include sports, robotics, and debating. National Day and Cultural Evenings are also part of school life.
Community & service	Community & service The Act & Impact Community Service Program engages students in local and global service projects that foster compassion, responsibility, integrity, and courage. Local service projects address issues in students' daily lives, while global projects involve partnerships with international organizations. Students log their service in the AIS Act & Impact Log and may be considered for the AIS Citizenship Award.	Community & service Global citizenship is a focus, with emphasis on serving the local and global community. Sustainability and environmental awareness are promoted as part of school values.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The Student Council represents the student body and links between students and school leaders, teaching older students to participate in healthy debate. The Act & Impact Program also fosters leadership through service and student-driven initiatives.	Leadership & professional Leadership development and 21st-century skills are central to ANNS education. The school aims to prepare students to become leaders who contribute to their communities.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports teams include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. Life skills programs include cooking classes, financial literacy workshops, and first aid training. Dedicated spaces at the campus support co- and extra-curricular activities.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school provides a safe, caring environment and promotes values such as respect, integrity and empathy. It offers support for learners with difficulties and for gifted and talented students. Physical Education and sports are included in the program.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Two modern languages are studied as part of AIS's IBDP. The IBDP is available at the MBZ campus for Grades 11 and 12. Arabic is taught under the UAE Ministry Curriculum for Arabic subjects.	Language provision The school is an English-medium private school in Abu Dhabi. The school offers both American and British curricula. The language of instruction is English.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards 87-94 includes Outstanding Inclusion Program; 100% University Placements across UK, USA, and other locations.	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations Band A ADEK rating; ADEK acknowledges high performance and governance.	Accreditations NEASC, CIS, ECIS, Cambridge International Examinations (CAIE), Pearson Edexcel, and SAT College Board.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Step 1: Admission for the 2025-2026 academic year is currently open for MBZ Campus only. The MBZ Campus offers the American curriculum from pre-school to Grade 12, with Grades 11 and 12 offering the High School Diploma, Advanced Placement (AP), or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). 2. Step 2: Applications are processed on a first-come-first-serve basis, with priority admissions given to children of AIS faculty members, siblings of current AIS students, former AIS students, and other eligible applicants. If there are no vacancies in the grade level, the applicant will be placed on a waiting list, and the school will contact the parents or guardians if a seat becomes available. 3. Step 3: New applicants to AIS: admission is open for pre-school to Grade 11; Grade 12 admissions are not accepted. Applicants must meet the age requirements for the grade to be applied to (e.g., Pre-school 3 years, Kindergarten 4 years, Prep 5 years, Grade 1 6 years) by September 1 of the admission year. Exceptions are not made for age when stated and admissions criteria will be considered. 4. Step 4: Attend a meeting with the School Registrar. For UAE-based applicants, meetings are held Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM, and Fridays, 8:00 AM–11:30 AM. Applicants outside the UAE should email admissions to schedule an online meeting. 5. Step 5: After the meeting, applicants attend a placement test or interview, scheduled by the Admissions Office. UAE-based applicants will receive an email with the date and time and should arrive on time; applicants outside the UAE will receive a link for the online test/interview. Enrollment follows acceptance: a Letter of Acceptance is issued, and enrollment must be completed within one week. A non-refundable AED 1,500 registration fee is payable at enrollment; bus service enrollment can be arranged at enrollment, and additional enrollment documents (e.g., Emirates IDs, transfer documents) may be required.	Admissions 1. Online registration and submission of the application and all required supporting documents. You will be given a reference number for your application. 2. Attend the oral interview after the application is accepted. 3. From the first to the twelfth grades, there is a computer-based entrance exam. 4. Register in the ADEK system. 5. Attend the interview and exam. 6. Pay the registration fees. The registration page notes that new registrations for the 2025-2026 academic year begin in January and continue throughout the year. 360-degree school tours are available for the Girls' Primary Campus, Girls' Secondary Campus, and Boys' Campus (A & B) as well as Campus Block C. For inquiries, contact the Registration Department via the provided channels.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist If a grade has no vacancies, applicants are placed on a waiting list. The Admissions Office contacts guardians if a seat becomes available.	Waitlist If there are no available seats in the required class, the registration request is placed on a waiting list with a maximum capacity. Priority is given to students with siblings already in the school or whose parents are employees. Guardians receive text and email updates, and status can be viewed through the parent portal.
	View full profile →	View full profile →