Al Hekma International School vs Hawar International School

	A Al Hekma International School Manama, Bahrain	H Hawar International School Manama, Bahrain
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year BHD 1,589 - 4,392	Fees / year BHD 1,194 - 3,298
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Bahraini Curriculum, American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 945	Pupils —
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Arabic
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location AHIS is located on Istqlal Highway in Sanad, Bahrain. The campus sits in a residential area within the Manama metropolitan region, providing convenient access for families living in central Bahrain. The site is accessible by car or taxi and is near main roads and local amenities.	Location Hawar International School is located in West Riffa, Kingdom of Bahrain, at Building 22, Road 42, Block 910. The campus sits in a residential area of West Riffa and is accessible by local roads. The school can be contacted at +973 13 666 555 and has a P.O. Box: 38338 for correspondence.
Stages	Stages The school runs from Preschool through Grade 12, with divisions into Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.	Stages The school offers education from Nursery and Kindergarten through Grade 12. Cambridge curriculum is used for K–8 and IGCSE is introduced for Grade 9; the school is authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme as an IB World School.
School type	School type AHIS is a co-educational international day school. It does not offer boarding facilities; the campus operates as a day school.	School type Hawar International School is a co-educational (COED) day school with no boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix There are about 26 nationalities represented at AHIS. The most common nationality is Bahraini. Local students account for roughly 55% of the student body, with international students representing about 45%.	Pupil nationality mix The school does not publish a formal nationality breakdown; enrollment is around 1,000 students and the school serves a diverse international community alongside Bahraini students.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support AHIS offers Gifted & Talented Programs. The Learning Support Team designs an Intervention Education Plan (IEP) for gifted and talented students and provides related academic and enrichment options, including an Advanced Placement program.	Additional learning support The Educational Support Unit (ESU) provides special education programs for students with special needs; students are evaluated and placed into ESU, with report cards indicating the current program. Continuous assessment occurs, and a shadow teacher may be required in lessons, with costs borne by parents as applicable.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school operates in Bahrain and is under the authority of the Bahraini Ministry of Education (MOE).	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation stated for Hawar International School; the school operates as a Bahraini private international school.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation AHIS does not have a formal religious affiliation listed in its official materials.	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious denomination affiliation; the school reflects Bahraini Islamic cultural context, including Islamic Studies in the curriculum.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically runs from around 7:00 AM to about 2:15–2:30 PM, depending on grade level. KG days end around 2:15 PM, while Middle and High School days commonly end around 2:30 PM. Breaks and lunchtime are scheduled per the school calendar.	School day structure Preschool hours are 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.; Elementary hours are 7:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.; Tuesdays end earlier at 12:30 p.m. (schedules may vary by year).
Bus service details	Bus service details AHIS Bahrain does not provide a school bus service; transportation is arranged by families or private providers.	Bus service details The school contracts a transportation company to provide bus service; buses are monitored by CCTV and may include a nanny on board.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Registration Fees - Application form fee: BD 35 for PS–KG1 and KG2; BD 35 or BD 45 for other grade bands as listed (Application Form: BD 35 or BD 45 depending on grade). - Seat reservation (booking) fee: BD 250 payable upon acceptance of enrollment. Booking/seat reservation fees are payable within five business days of acceptance and are not refundable. . Annual Tuition by Year Group (amounts inclusive of VAT) - PS–KG1: BD 1,589.000. - KG2: BD 1,616.000. - Grade 1–3: BD 2,510.000. - Grade 4–5: BD 2,513.000. - Grade 6: BD 2,524.000. - Grade 7: BD 3,377.000. - Grade 8: BD 3,371.000. - Grade 9: BD 3,432.000. - Grade 10: BD 4,146.000. - Grade 11: BD 4,256.000. - Grade 12: BD 4,392.000. What is included in the tuition - Tuition includes one set of sports uniform, one set of standard uniform, books and rental books, notebooks and the yearbook. The published tuition amounts also indicate the seat reservation amount as part of the fee structure. Per-term / Installment amounts (calculated from the annual tuition figures) - The following installment figures are calculated from the annual tuition amounts using the school's published payment splits (50/50 or 50/25/25). These numbers are simple arithmetic based on the published annual fees and the published payment schedule: - PS–KG1 (BD 1,589.000): 50% = BD 794.50; 25% = BD 397.25. - KG2 (BD 1,616.000): 50% = BD 808.00; 25% = BD 404.00. - G1–G3 (BD 2,510.000): 50% = BD 1,255.00; 25% = BD 627.50. - G4–G5 (BD 2,513.000): 50% = BD 1,256.50; 25% = BD 628.25. - G6 (BD 2,524.000): 50% = BD 1,262.00; 25% = BD 631.00. - G7 (BD 3,377.000): 50% = BD 1,688.50; 25% = BD 844.25. - G8 (BD 3,371.000): 50% = BD 1,685.50; 25% = BD 842.75. - G9 (BD 3,432.000): 50% = BD 1,716.00; 25% = BD 858.00. - G10 (BD 4,146.000): 50% = BD 2,073.00; 25% = BD 1,036.50. - G11 (BD 4,256.000): 50% = BD 2,128.00; 25% = BD 1,064.00. - G12 (BD 4,392.000): 50% = BD 2,196.00; 25% = BD 1,098.00. Billing schedule and payment terms - Payment schedule options: - One full payment (due at the start of the year in August). - Two installments: 50% in August and 50% on January 1. - Three payments: 50% in August, 25% on January 1, and 25% on March 1. - If a student is admitted in the first half of a semester, a full semester's fees are charged; if admitted in the second semester, half of the annual fees are charged. - Booking/seat reservation fee is payable upon acceptance and must be paid within five business days or registration will be cancelled; registration, testing and interview fees are non-refundable. Discounts, if granted, will be revoked if parents are more than two weeks late on the due date. A late-payment fine of 7.5% applies and additional penalties may be added for further delay; a returned/bounced cheque carries an added fine. Failure to pay can result in withholding of certificates, transcripts and denial of examination or graduation participation. Boarding fees - No boarding fees are listed and boarding is not presented as an offered fee category. There are no published boarding charges on the fee schedule. Other costs and additional fees - Books and uniforms (one set each) are included in the tuition, but the policy notes that books, uniforms, tablets, transportation and any additional fees are not refundable once paid. The published schedule also references registration, testing and interview fees as separate charges and non-refundable. Any additional services (transportation, extra devices, additional uniform sets, extra-curricular fees if charged separately) would be considered extra and are not covered in the base tuition amounts. Siblings discount - Sibling discount policy: first eldest and second child pay full tuition; third younger child receives a 10% discount; fourth younger child and subsequent children receive a 15% discount. Note: the sibling discount does not apply to PS–KG2 grade levels. Discounts cannot be combined and may be revoked for late payment. Refund information - Tuition fees are non-refundable whether the student attended or not. If a student withdraws, one full semester's notice is required or a full semester's fees become payable. Registration, testing, interview and booking/seat reservation fees are non-refundable. Books, uniforms, tablets, transportation and any additional fees are not refundable. If registration is cancelled due to missing required documents, paid fees are not refunded. If the school terminates registration for discipline or rule breaches, fees are not refundable. Fees paid will not be refunded even if the student did not start or attend. Cancellation of enrollment must be submitted in writing where required by the school policy. Accepted payment methods and banking details - In-branch payment at BBK (submit receipt to accounts or admissions) or bank transfer to the BBK account: Account Number 100000087325; Account Name: Al Hekma International School S P C; IBAN: BH35BBKU00100000087325; SWIFT: BBKUBHBM. - In-branch payment at AUB (submit receipt to accounts or admissions) or bank transfer to the AUB account: Account Number 0016-270218-001; Account Name: AL Hekma International School; IBAN: BH65AUBB00016270218001; SWIFT: AUBBBHBM. - Cash or cheque payments accepted at the school (school office hours noted). Post-dated cheques are accepted only in accordance with the published payment terms and due dates. Receipts should be submitted to the accounts or admissions office. Credit card payment is not listed as a published payment method in the fee schedule. Notes on enforcement and penalties - A two-week delay on payment can result in blocking of the student's name in the Ministry of Education system and potential legal action. Discounts may be revoked if payments are more than two weeks late. No certificates, transcripts or graduation participation will be issued if fees remain unpaid. Summary of non-refundable items - Registration/testing/interview fees, booking/seat reservation fee, tuition once paid, books, uniforms, tablets, transportation and additional fees are non-refundable under the school policy. A written notice and one full semester's notice are required for withdrawal to avoid further charges.	Fee details Application and registration fees - Registration (new student) fee: BHD 150 (payable once at registration for new students). - Evaluation/assessment fee (new students): small one‑off amount varying by age/grade (examples shown for Special Education Unit: BHD 50–70). Tuition fees — mainstream (annual totals by year group) - Kindergarten 1 (age 3): BHD 1,194 per year. - Kindergarten 2: BHD 1,649 per year. - Kindergarten 3: BHD 1,649 per year. - Grade 1: BHD 2,076 per year. - Grade 2: BHD 2,076 per year. - Grade 3: BHD 2,076 per year. - Grade 4: BHD 2,228 per year. - Grade 5: BHD 2,228 per year. - Grade 6: BHD 2,514 per year. - Grade 7: BHD 2,615 per year. - Grade 8: BHD 2,767 per year. - Grade 9: BHD 2,994 per year. - Grade 10: BHD 3,298 per year. - Grade 11: BHD 3,298 per year. - Grade 12: BHD 3,298 per year. Tuition fees — Special Education Unit (ESU) — full published detail (2025–26) - ESU tuition (annual) and mandatory/one‑off items by group (all figures in BHD): - Nursery: Tuition BHD 2,408; Registration (new student) BHD 150; Evaluation (new) BHD 50; Books BHD 120; Field‑trip transport BHD 20; Total BHD 2,748. - KG (KG1–KG2): Tuition BHD 2,408; Registration BHD 150; Evaluation BHD 50; Books BHD 120; Transport BHD 20; Total BHD 2,748. - Grade 1–3: Tuition BHD 2,835; Registration BHD 150; Evaluation BHD 50; Books BHD 120; Transport BHD 20; Total BHD 3,175. - Grade 4–5: Tuition BHD 3,214; Registration BHD 150; Evaluation BHD 50; Books BHD 150; Transport BHD 20; Total BHD 3,584. - Grade 6: Tuition BHD 3,753; Registration BHD 150; Evaluation BHD 50; Books BHD 150; Transport BHD 20; Total BHD 4,123. - Grade 7–8: Tuition BHD 3,753; Registration BHD 150; Evaluation BHD 70; Books BHD 150; Transport BHD 20; Total BHD 4,143. - Grade 9–12: Tuition BHD 4,057; Registration BHD 150; Evaluation BHD 70; Books BHD 150; Transport BHD 20; Total BHD 4,447. - ESU instalment (per‑term) breakdown is published for 2025–26: first payment, second payment and third payment amounts are shown in the ESU schedule and sum to the annual tuition for each group; sample instalments for ESU groups are shown on the ESU fee schedule. Per‑term instalments (how fees are billed and example instalment amounts) - Instalment schedule used by the school: fees are payable in three instalments. The first instalment is payable in the middle of the second semester (April) for returning students and at registration for new students. The second instalment is due at the start of the first semester (due before September 7). The third instalment is due at the end of the first semester (due before December 7). No school documents or transfer certificates are released while fees remain outstanding. - Published per‑term instalment amounts are available for the Special Education Unit (ESU) for 2025–26; those exact instalment amounts are shown in the ESU fee schedule. Example ESU instalments (BHD): - Nursery/KG: First BHD 1,000; Second BHD 704; Third BHD 704 (annual tuition BHD 2,408). - Grade 1–3 (ESU): First BHD 1,200; Second BHD 818; Third BHD 817 (annual tuition BHD 2,835). - Grade 9–12 (ESU): First BHD 2,000; Second BHD 1,029; Third BHD 1,028 (annual tuition BHD 4,057). - Estimated per‑term instalments for mainstream year groups (numerical examples): the school issues instalment amounts on the invoice. Using the school's published ESU instalment proportions as the billing pattern, approximate per‑term instalments for mainstream annual fees (2025–26) would be: - Kindergarten 1 (annual BHD 1,194): First ≈ BHD 496; Second ≈ BHD 349; Third ≈ BHD 349. - Kindergarten 2 / 3 (annual BHD 1,649): First ≈ BHD 685; Second ≈ BHD 482; Third ≈ BHD 482. - Grade 1–3 (annual BHD 2,076): First ≈ BHD 880; Second ≈ BHD 599; Third ≈ BHD 597. - Grade 4–5 (annual BHD 2,228): First ≈ BHD 971; Second ≈ BHD 629; Third ≈ BHD 629. - Grade 6 (annual BHD 2,514): First ≈ BHD 1,072; Second ≈ BHD 722; Third ≈ BHD 720. - Grade 7 (annual BHD 2,615): First ≈ BHD 1,115; Second ≈ BHD 751; Third ≈ BHD 749. - Grade 8 (annual BHD 2,767): First ≈ BHD 1,180; Second ≈ BHD 794; Third ≈ BHD 793. - Grade 9 (annual BHD 2,994): First ≈ BHD 1,476; Second ≈ BHD 759; Third ≈ BHD 759. - Grade 10–12 (annual BHD 3,298): First ≈ BHD 1,625; Second ≈ BHD 836; Third ≈ BHD 837. Note: those per‑term figures for mainstream are calculated estimates based on the ESU instalment pattern and the school's published annual mainstream fees; actual invoice instalment amounts are set by the school's billing office and are shown on each student invoice. Billing terms and penalties - Invoices are emailed to parents. Failure to pay by the due date may result in administrative charges and withholding of reports or certificates; the school may suspend or terminate enrolment for unpaid fees. The school may withdraw places for all siblings if the full family balance is not paid by the invoice due date. Boarding fees - The school operates as a day school; no boarding facility or boarding fees are published. Boarding fees are therefore not applicable. Other costs and optional charges - Books: published book fees vary by age/grade (examples shown on the ESU schedule: BHD 120–150). - Snacks: optional snack charges apply for early years in some groups (example shown in schedules). After‑school / extended care: BHD 20 per month (preschool/elementary example in FAQ). - Field‑trip transportation (optional): BHD 20 per year shown in fee schedules for many year groups. - Device / iPad and other grade‑specific items: device charges (iPad) and BC/device payments are required for Grades 4 and up at acceptance in some cases (listed as part of reservation requirements). - Other variable charges: examination fees, external exam (IGCSE/IB) fees, extra‑curricular activities, uniforms and school trips are charged separately when applicable; amounts vary by grade and activity and appear on term invoices. Refund policy - Registration fee is non‑refundable. For withdrawals the published policy applies: if withdrawal is notified in writing before the end of June the school retains 50% of fees to that date; withdrawals from the beginning of July until mid‑August result in the school retaining 80% of fees to that date; withdrawals between 16 August and the first day of the new academic year receive no refund; withdrawals during the academic year may result in the school retaining all fees. Refunds are subject to the school's written procedures. Payment methods and how to pay - Accepted payment methods: Credit and debit card, cheque, BenefitPay and bank transfer. The school does not accept cash payments at this time. Payments must include the invoice number or student name as specified on the invoice. Summary - New student one‑off fees: Registration BHD 150 + evaluation (grade dependent) + books/device charges as applicable. - Annual mainstream tuition: BHD 1,194 (K1) up to BHD 3,298 (Grades 10–12), billed in three instalments with the school's published instalment due dates. - ESU (special education) annual fees and exact per‑term instalments are published for 2025–26 in the school's ESU fee schedule.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements AHIS does not offer boarding; it operates as a day school for Preschool through Grade 12. The International Baccalaureate profile lists Boarding facilities as DAY, indicating there are no on-site boarding options.	Boarding arrangements Hawar International School operates as a day school with no boarding facilities. The IB information listing specifies 'Boarding facilities: DAY', indicating pupils attend as day students only. There is no on-site residential option or weekly/flexi-boarding offered.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are provided to all students upon registration. Only school-provided uniforms are allowed, and uniforms are worn according to the weekly schedule; sports uniforms are permitted only on designated sports days.	Uniform requirement Uniform is mandatory for all students and varies by grade level according to the school's detailed dress code. Shoes must be black leather in a regulation design; trainers, boots, open-toed sandals or slip-ons are not allowed. Hair must be neat with natural colours and long hair tied back; jewellery is restricted. Non-uniform jackets are allowed in colder months to/from school and during breaks; hats are not permitted inside.
Food options	Food options The catering and food page indicates a fully supervised cafeteria for students in grades 1 and above, offering hot meals, drinks, salads, and sandwiches; students may also bring lunch from home. Payments can be made by cash or via a cashless system, and the campus is nut-free to accommodate allergies.	Food options —
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership AHIS is governed by a Board of Directors that is appointed by the Managing Director to oversee operations, long-range planning, budgeting, and policy, including monitoring the School Wide Improvement Plan. The school operates under the Bahraini Ministry of Education and is privately founded, with Dr. Mona Rashid AlZayani listed as President & Founder.	Governance and ownership —
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details AHIS Bahrain serves Preschool through Grade 12 and offers an American curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) for the high school years. AHIS is an IB World School authorized to deliver the Diploma Programme and is accredited by the Middle States Association (MSA) and Cognia. The curriculum provides instruction in English and Arabic and covers a broad set of subjects, with additional emphasis on ICT, arts, health, and physical education. In high school, students have access to the American diploma pathway and the IB Diploma, with preparation for standardized tests such as SAT, AP, and TOEFL. AHIS also offers Global Programs (Junior Ambassadors Conference, Future Arab Leaders, Model United Nations) and STEM and Service-Learning initiatives as part of its curriculum.	Curriculum details Hawar International School offers education from Nursery to Grade 12 in Bahrain, with English as the language of instruction. Since 2018-19, the school has implemented the Cambridge curriculum for K–8 and started IGCSE for Grade 9 in 2019-20, with Arabic subjects following Bahrain Ministry of Education standards. In the Kindergarten, there is a 50/50 split between Arabic and English subjects, with KG2 Arabic following MOE and English aligned to Cambridge. The High School offers Arabic Language, Arabic Social Studies, Islamic Studies, English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies (including Business Studies and Economics), plus Art, Physical Education, ICT, and a Grade 12 Careers Education Development Programme (CEDP). HIS is an IB World School authorized to offer the Diploma Programme (DP) since November 16, 2020.
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 AHIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a values-driven, school-wide approach. The Vision states AHIS aims to foster global citizenship, high self-esteem, low anxiety, and a strong sense of belonging. The school describes its environment as safe and nurturing, with a professional staff supporting students across academic life, activities, and events. The Life Skills program provides SEL-aligned curricula across grades: Kindergarten CARE (Caring, Articulated, Respectful, Engaged); Elementary BEST (Brave, Engaged, Self-confident, Tolerant); Middle School D.A.R.E (Disciplined, Accountable, Reflective, Engaged); High School RE.A.C.H (Responsibility, Engagement, Accountability, Confidence, Honesty). The program emphasizes staff support to meet students' SEL needs throughout the school years.	Social & emotional learning Hawar International School provides a safe, inclusive and caring environment for students. The school adopts a whole-child approach with a focus on balance and a healthy lifestyle to support wellbeing. It emphasizes close academic monitoring and supportive pastoral care to help students grow socially and emotionally. The school describes its ethos as fostering a caring community and mutual respect within the school. This framework supports students in participating actively in school life and developing personal and social skills.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AHIS provides a Gifted & Talented Programs (GT) for students with high capability. An Intervention Education Plan (IEP) is designed for Gifted and Talented students by the Learning Support Team. The GT program seeks to engage students through venues for research, problem-solving, leadership, and social-emotional development. For students who are struggling academically, teachers offer remedial classes, tutoring, and access to social workers and counselors, with differentiation and IEP plans to assist learning. AHIS is not described as a separate SEN institution; SEN support is integrated through GT and Learning Support within the school.	Special educational needs (SEN) Hawar International School states that it provides special needs education and facilities for students with physical and learning needs. The school has an Educational Support Unit (ESU) that offers a special support program according to a student's level and directs students diagnosed as special needs to the ESU. Students are assessed continuously throughout the year, and the ESU may determine that a shadow teacher is required; parents must cover the costs of such support. Report cards indicate the program the student is currently on. The ESU page describes ongoing evaluation and the possibility of varying levels of support year to year.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The language of instruction is English. On-campus Arabic language options can be arranged for interested students through Special Arabic teachers. AHIS operates an American Program and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with English as the primary language of instruction. Differentiation and an IEP process are used to support diverse learners, including needs related to English as an additional language. The school also notes on-campus Arabic language offerings and an international, multilingual student body as part of its language and EAL approach.	English as an additional language Hawar International School provides a balanced bilingual education in English and Arabic. English is the language of instruction for the IB Diploma Programme. The KG curriculum features a 50/50 split between Arabic and English subjects, and the Cambridge curriculum is implemented for K–8 with English-taught subjects. Arabic subjects follow Bahrain Ministry of Education standards. Public pages do not describe a separate, dedicated EAL program or staff beyond the bilingual curriculum structure.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through a safe and nurturing environment; the Vision emphasizes low anxiety and high self-esteem. The school aims to foster belonging and global citizenship as part of wellbeing. The Life Skills program across Kindergarten to High School includes staff dedicated to supporting student wellbeing through a professional team. Affiliations with professional bodies (NESA, ASCD, UNESCO, PTC) indicate ongoing staff development that can support wellbeing. The IB DP candidacy and other global programs promote holistic development that underpins student wellbeing.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through the school's safe, inclusive environment and its pastoral care approach. The ethos emphasizes a whole-child model with a focus on balance and a healthy lifestyle to promote well-being. There is close academic monitoring paired with supportive pastoral care to aid students' social and emotional development. The school encourages student participation in school life and beyond to foster confidence and resilience.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school does not publicly disclose safeguarding and child protection policies on its site. The Vision describes a safe, nurturing environment with a sense of belonging. The Life Skills program across K-12 emphasizes safety and care as part of its values. The Life Skills page notes a professional staff dedicated to supporting students' well-being. AHIS's affiliations with professional bodies indicate formal professional development and policy alignment that may inform safeguarding practices.	Safeguarding The school publicly provides general safety information but does not publicly disclose a dedicated safeguarding or child protection policy on its pages. The Welcome page highlights a safe, inclusive environment, and the Health & Safety page covers specific health-related risks and management. No separate safeguarding policy page is listed among publicly accessible materials.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview AHIS provides modern facilities, including spacious buildings, multimedia classrooms with interactive Smartboards and wireless internet, science labs, music labs, art labs, and computer labs. It has two libraries, meeting and lecture halls, a cafeteria, and a modern theatre; large playgrounds and dedicated sports facilities complement the academic spaces.	Facilities overview —
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has a gymnasium, an air-conditioned sports hall, track and field facilities, a soccer field, a tennis court, basketball and volleyball courts, and play areas for children.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include spacious multimedia classrooms with interactive Smartboards and wireless internet, science labs, music labs, art labs, and computer labs, along with two libraries and meeting/lecture halls.	Academic facilities The school offers Cambridge curriculum for K–8 and IGCSE for Grade 9, and is an IB World School authorized for the Diploma Programme. The language of instruction is English.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities AHIS offers a variety of clubs and activities during and after school. Global programs include Junior Ambassadors Conference, Future Arab Leaders, and Model United Nations.	Extra curricular facilities The High School offers a range of clubs, sports and leadership opportunities, including student council officers and members, Model United Nations, and various special interest clubs.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History AHIS was founded in 1985 by Dr. Mona Rashid AlZayani, who is listed as President and Founder on the Board of Directors page. The school is governed by a Board of Directors, with Mohanned Al-Anni as Chairman; the board oversees long-range planning, budgeting, and adherence to Ministry of Education directives. AHIS operates as a co-educational international school from Preschool through Grade 12 offering an American and IB diploma, and it operates under the Bahraini Ministry of Education. It holds accreditations from the Middle States Association for Accreditation of Colleges and Schools (MSA), Cognia, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, and has affiliations with UNESCO and ALECSO.	History Hawar International School was established in 2001 by a group of dedicated Bahraini professionals to provide a bilingual education from Nursery through Grade 12, while preserving Bahrain's culture and Islamic heritage. The school began with fewer than 75 students and initially served kindergarten through the early elementary grades. It has grown to around 1,000 students, with the first high school graduating cohort in 2010. It was among the first Bahraini schools to offer services for students with special needs. Cambridge curriculum was introduced for K–8 in 2018–2019, IGCSE began for Grade 9 in 2019–2020, and the school received IB Diploma Programme authorization in November 2020.
Community	Community AHIS organizes a set of global programs to foster leadership and global engagement, including the Junior Ambassadors Conference, Future Arab Leaders, and Model United Nations, which connect students with local and international issues. AHIS hosts cultural and community events such as the Bahraini Women's Day event Razjia 2, with participation from board members and student councils. The school also runs overseas trips, such as a middle/high school trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, broadening horizons and developing life skills. AHIS offers a variety of clubs and activities during and after school, contributing to well-rounded development.	Community The school aims to provide a safe, inclusive, and caring environment in which students can learn to live and work together. There is a very supportive parent body and open two-way communication between home and school. Community life includes a range of events such as parents meetings, report card days, and school anniversaries, along with a broad set of after-school clubs. The weekly plans and calendar help keep families informed about activities across the KG through high school.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association AHIS has a PTA described as a grassroots organization made up of parents and teachers who have a special interest in children, families, and schools. The PTA's mission is to support and speak on behalf of students and youth in the school, in the community, and before governmental bodies and other organizations that make decisions affecting students, and to assist parents in developing the skills they need to raise their children and to encourage parent involvement in the school's activities. AHIS's PTA works to develop the school environment through its objectives, promoting the welfare of all children at home, at school, and in the community, and strengthening the home–school relationship. AHIS has creative and intellectual parents and teachers forming its PTA who work together toward offering the best quality of education in the most convenient educational environment, meeting the highest international standards. The leadership includes Chairperson Inshad Abdullah Johar, Vice Chair Ateqa Taheri, and a broad slate of members such as Donia Ahmed, Dima Nahouli, Shazeema Rasheed, Sabri Ben Trabelsi, and many others, with roles such as Secretary Asmaa Osman and Treasurer Rehab AlBaz.	Parent teacher association Hawar International School operates a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) with elections held for the 2025-2026 council. Latifa Hasan Janahi serves as President of the PTA; she is the Chief E-content – Head of E-learning and Training and the Managing Director. The Vice President is Noof Ali Fakhroo. Other PTA members include staff such as the School Principal Sameer Al Fetyani, Admin Manager, PS Science Teacher & Coordinator, ESU Specialist, Islamic Studies Teacher, and parent representatives including the Head of Internal Quality and other volunteers. The PTA supports school events and communicates with families through notices and updates.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual AHIS promotes academic development through a broad range of activities that build written and oral communication in Arabic and English. Throughout the year students participate in research tasks, presentations, field trips, and reading, spelling and writing competitions. AHIS courses include computers, health, art, music, drama, and physical education; these classes are taught by certified staff and designed to enrich students' self-confidence and creativity. Extracurricular programs such as Model United Nations and other global programs supplement classroom learning by developing research, analysis, and presentation skills.	Academic & intellectual Cambridge curriculum is taught for K–8 English-taught subjects and IGCSE is introduced for Grade 9. Arabic subjects follow Bahrain Ministry of Education standards. The KG section features a 50/50 split between Arabic and English subjects, with KG2 Arabic following MOE and English following Cambridge for other subjects. The school is an IB World School authorized to offer the Diploma Programme since November 16, 2020, and the High School prepares students for university with a Careers Education Development Program (CEDP).
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Art, music, and drama are part of the core AHIS curriculum and are taught by certified staff. These subjects foster creativity and self-expression and are supported by dedicated facilities. AHIS emphasizes creative development as a component of a well-rounded education.	Arts & creative After-school clubs cover arts, languages, and media. Music/Guitar, Art & Painting, Graphic Design, Movie Making, Creative Writing/English, Arabic Calligraphy, and French Language are offered. Sports and fitness activities include basketball, handball, gymnastics, football, volleyball, and table tennis, and wellness-oriented clubs like Eat Healthy & Live Healthy exist. Recitation & Learning of Holy Quran and other creative activities provide opportunities for expressive learning.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Bilingual communication in Arabic and English is a focus, with Arabic language included in the curriculum. Programs such as Future Arab Leaders and Model United Nations provide opportunities to develop bilingual communication skills and engage with global communities. The Model United Nations program is linked to UNESCO and emphasizes diplomacy and global understanding.	Cultural & language Language of instruction is English. Arabic Language, Arabic Social Studies, and Islamic Studies are part of the core curriculum, with the KG 50/50 Arabic-English balance and KG2 Arabic following MOE alongside Cambridge English. French Language is offered as an after-school activity. The Diploma Programme is offered under the IB, with English as the language of instruction in the IB framework.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies There are extensive opportunities to participate in school clubs and student-led activities. The high school profile lists MUN, YLC (Young Leaders Council), BYE (Bahrain Young Entrepreneurs), and Student Council as avenues to develop leadership and social engagement. Model United Nations also provides a forum for teamwork and debate as part of AHIS's global programs.	Social & hobbies There are Chess, Table Tennis, Handball, Gymnastics, Football, and Volleyball clubs. Creative and cultural activities include Arabic Calligraphy, Recitation of Holy Quran, Movie Making, Creative Writing/English, and Graphic Design. Model United Nations and a range of leadership-oriented clubs are part of the high school offerings.
Community & service	Community & service The Junior Ambassadors Conference focuses on child rights, citizenship, and health, education, and safety topics. Participants engage with communities and policy discussions to advocate for youth needs. The program links students with broader global citizenship initiatives within AHIS's global programs.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Future Arab Leaders develops leadership and social skills and bilingual communication through experiential simulations and current-events discussions. Model United Nations builds diplomacy, research, policy-writing, and public-speaking abilities. Young Leaders Council and Bahrain Young Entrepreneurs, along with Student Council, provide ongoing leadership and entrepreneurship opportunities.	Leadership & professional Student leadership opportunities include the Student Council and a variety of clubs. Model United Nations is offered as a leadership activity, and there are multiple leadership opportunities within clubs. The High School provides a Careers Education Development Program (CEDP) to prepare students for university and the workplace.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Life Skills programs provide age-appropriate modules with names like CARE, BEST, DARE, and REACH to promote values such as caring, bravery, self-confidence, discipline, responsibility, and accountability. AHIS describes a safe, nurturing environment with a dedicated staff supporting students' development across academic life and activities. The program emphasizes wellbeing, organization, and healthy study habits through ongoing guidance.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports, fitness, and wellbeing are supported through regular PE and a wide range of after-school clubs, including basketball, handball, gymnastics, football, volleyball, and table tennis. Wellness-focused activities include Eat Healthy & Live Healthy. The school also emphasizes leadership and community engagement through clubs such as Model United Nations.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Arabic language is taught as part of the curriculum to develop written and oral communication in Arabic. English language is taught as part of the curriculum to develop written and oral communication in English. The school offers American and IB Diploma Programme options.	Language provision The language of instruction is English. In Kindergarten, Arabic and English subjects are taught with a 50/50 split between the two languages. Cambridge curriculum is used for K–8 and IGCSE for Grade 9, with Arabic subjects following Bahrain Ministry of Education standards. The school is an IB World School authorized to offer the Diploma Programme.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The school provides bilingual education in English and Arabic.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations MSA, Cognia, and IB Diploma Programme; Cognia STEM Certification; MSA Service-Learning Program of Distinction.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1. Submit the application with the required documents. Attach a copy of the student's passport, a copy of the parent's passport, a copy of the residency ID (CPR), a copy of the residency permit in the passport (for expats), the student's vaccination record, the birth certificate, one photo, and transcripts for the past two years. Students applying from outside Bahrain must attest the last year's report card from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Bahrain, then present these documents to the Ministry of Education in Bahrain to receive an equivalency letter. Step 2. Take entrance exams and participate in an interview. Students must sit for entrance exams in English, Arabic, and Math; non-Arabic speaking students are exempted from the Arabic entrance exam. Students must attend an interview to determine eligibility for enrollment. Step 3. Complete placement assessments. AHIS admits students based on policies set by the MOE in Bahrain. Placement assessments are conducted in English, and students who are non-speakers or new to the language are assessed at the beginning of the academic year and placed at the proper academic level. Step 4. Receive an admission decision. Acceptance or rejection of enrollment is at the sole discretion of the admissions committee. Both interviews and entrance exams must be passed to be considered for admission. Step 5. Confirm enrollment and secure a seat. If accepted, a seat booking fee is payable upon acceptance of enrollment and must be paid within 5 business days from notification of acceptance; failure to pay will result in cancellation of registration. Registration, testing, and interview fees are non-refundable even if a student is placed on a waiting list or rejected. Step 6. Complete enrollment formalities or withdrawal terms. When enrolling, follow the payment schedule and provide all required documents; Registration, testing, and interview fees are non-refundable. If there is a withdrawal, a full semester notice is required; if notice is not given, full semester's fees are payable. Transfer certificates may be required for moving to another school.	Admissions Registration is open for the 2025–2026 academic year from Nursery to Grade 12. Online admission forms are available for submission.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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