Al Ittihad National Private School – Shakhbout City vs Sama International School
Al Ittihad National Private School – Shakhbout City and Sama International School are both in Abu Dhabi, about 8 km apart. Both schools offer American programmes. Al Ittihad National Private School – Shakhbout City also offers Advanced Placement (AP), and Sama International School also offers IB and IBCP. Published annual fees are AED 28,160 - 44,430 at Al Ittihad National Private School – Shakhbout City and AED 30,065 - 53,380 at Sama International School, which puts Sama International School roughly 15% higher. Al Ittihad National Private School – Shakhbout City takes pupils from 4 to 17, and Sama International School from 4 to 18.
IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IBCP (International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme), American Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
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Pupils
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Typical class size
Typical class size
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Typical class size
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Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
2018
Opened
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Bus service
Bus service
No
Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
INPS-Shakhbout is located at MFW25 Al Ihsan Street, Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The postal address is P.O. Box 148483. The school is located in Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi. The address is on Al Ihsan Street.
Location
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Stages
Stages
Kindergarten through Grade 12
Stages
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School type
School type
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School type
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Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Student Support services address students' academic, emotional, and personal needs; counselors and advisors provide guidance on academic planning, career choices and personal well-being.
Additional learning support
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Country affiliation
Country affiliation
United Arab Emirates
Country affiliation
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Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation
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School day structure
School day structure
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School day structure
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Bus service details
Bus service details
Bus service is available with two-way and one-way options. Two-way: 5,000 for two semesters; 4,150 for one semester. One-way: 4,150 per semester.
Bus service details
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Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application / Registration fee
- New student registration: 5% of the school's annual tuition fee (payable to reserve the seat; this amount is deductible from the tuition). - Existing student re‑registration: 5% of the school's annual tuition fee (deductible from the tuition).
Annual tuition fees (AED) by year group — 2025–26 published schedule
(Values above are the published annual totals; the three installment amounts are calculated using the school's stated payment split: 33% in August, 33% on 1 December and 34% on 1 February.)
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Annual tuition is payable in three installments: first installment (33%) due in August, second installment (33%) due on 1 December, third installment (34%) due on 1 February. The second and third installments must be provided as two post‑dated cheques dated 1 December and 1 February and submitted with the first installment. - Registration / re‑registration fees (5% of annual tuition) are required to secure or retain a seat and are deductible from the tuition total. The student will not be accepted / re‑registered without payment of these fees and settlement of outstanding tuition. - Where an employer or third party will pay fees, an undertaking form from the employer is required by the Registration & Accounts Department. - 5% VAT is applied to all fees except tuition, books and transportation. A sibling discount structure is applied to tuition: 5% for the second and third child, 10% for the fourth child and above (applies to tuition).
Boarding
- The school operates as a day school; there are no boarding facilities or boarding fees. Transportation is arranged via the school bus service for which separate charges apply.
Transport / bus fees
- Bus service is optional and charged separately. Published transport fees (per the school schedule): - Two‑way / two semesters: AED 5,000. - Two‑way / one semester: AED 4,150. - One‑way / one semester: AED 4,150. - One‑way / two semesters: AED 4,150.
Other costs and fees
- Books: book charges are included in the published “tuition and books” figures shown in the fee schedule for each grade. - School uniform: uniform must be purchased through the school's approved supplier (online supplier link / official supplier arrangement). The uniform is charged separately from tuition; specific item prices are handled by the supplier. - External / examination fees: Advanced Placement (AP) exam fees and related charges are payable in USD to the exam board and passed to parents' accounts: USD 120 per AP subject (cancellation and late‑registration penalties also apply — e.g., a USD 40 cancellation fee and an additional USD 40 late registration surcharge per subject in the stated late period). Exact AP scheduling and penalty dates are set for the exam year. - Field trips, extracurricular activities and some optional services may carry additional charges; these are invoiced separately when applicable. - 5% VAT will be applied on fees where VAT is stated to be applicable.
Refunds and withdrawal deductions
- Registration fee (new students): refundable in full if the parent provides written notice at least two weeks prior to the start of the new academic year. Re‑registration fees are not refundable for students enrolled in the previous academic year who do not attend the following year. - Withdrawal during the start of the academic year: - If a student attends up to part of the first week and then discontinues without written notification, the registration fee will not be refunded. - Attendance between one week and three weeks: one month's fees will be deducted. - Attendance between three weeks and six weeks: two months' fees will be deducted. - Attendance for more than six weeks: one semester's fees will be deducted. - Book fees are refundable only if the student did not attend and the refund request is made before the beginning of the academic year. - Transportation fees follow the same refund / deduction rules as tuition. - The official withdrawal date is the date on the parent's written Withdrawal Request; refunds/deductions are calculated from that date.
Payment methods and options
- Payments accepted include payment by cheque (post‑dated cheques required for the December and February installments) and other standard methods processed by the school's Finance / Accounts Department. An employer undertaking form is required where an employer will cover fees. VAT is applied where stated. (Specific in‑person payment channels such as bank transfer or card acceptance are managed by the school's accounts office.)
Notes
- The published grade‑by‑grade figures above are the school's stated annual totals (tuition and books where shown). Installment amounts are calculated using the school's stated 33%/33%/34% payment split and are presented for billing clarity.
Fee details
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Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
The school has a dress code and appearance policy for KG1 through Grade 12. KG1–KG2 wear a striped blue-and-white dress; girls in Grades 1–4 wear a dark blue sleeveless dress; girls in Grades 5–12 wear a dark blue sleeveless A-line dress with pockets; boys in Grades 1–12 wear dark blue trousers with a striped blue-and-white shirt; the PE uniform is a white polo shirt with white undershirts and a navy blue PE jacket and trousers; shoes must be solid black; plain sweaters may be white, dark blue, gray, or black; the school logo (5x5 cm) appears on the left side of applicable garments; enforcement is by the department Head of Section.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
The school has a canteen on site with a formal School Canteen Policy. The canteen offers fresh fruit, vegetables, and salads; sandwiches for the first break; hot snacks and grilled foods for the second break; water, juice, and yogurt; and it complies with hygiene and safety standards.
Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is governed by a Governing Board (Board of Trustees) that oversees performance and strategic direction. INPS‑Shakhbout is the newest branch of Ittihad Schools, and Asfeh Keblawi is the principal. The school holds a Very Good ADEK rating (2021‑2022) and is accredited by The American International Accreditation Association of Schools and Colleges (AIAA).
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
The school follows an international American curriculum, and the Ministry of Education curriculum for Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Social Studies.
Curriculum details
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Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
The University Fair 2025-2026 connected Grade 11-12 students and their parents with leading universities and educational centers.
Higher education progression
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Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs are part of the safeguarding framework. Students participate in SEL programs designed to enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution skills. The school fosters a safe and supportive environment through SEL, contributing to a holistic education. The school's approach to SEL aligns with its commitment to holistic development, nurturing students to become compassionate, resilient, and globally responsible citizens. The principal's message emphasizes nurturing the student emotionally as part of a broader development.
Social & emotional learning
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Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
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English as an additional language
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Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is addressed as part of holistic student development. The principal states that education at INPS-Shakhbout nurtures students emotionally, spiritually, academically and physically, equipping them with lifelong skills. The school emphasizes fostering resilience, empathy, and positive social interactions as core facets of daily learning.
Mental wellbeing
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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Student Protection Policy 2024-2025 exists. It aligns with UAE laws, including Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 on Child Rights, the Federal Penal Code No. 3 of 1987, and Law No. 18 of 2020. It aims to safeguard students by ensuring their safety and well-being, protecting them from physical, psychological, or sexual abuse, exploitation, or bullying, and by emphasising the shared responsibility of families and staff. Roles are defined for ADEK, the School Principal, staff, and parents, with procedures for reporting concerns and protecting confidentiality. Guarding includes training, vetting of staff, and age-appropriate safeguarding resources; safeguarding is taught as part of the curriculum (digital safety, peer pressure strategies, and Social and Emotional Learning). If a child is in immediate danger, police should be contacted at 999, followed by notifying the Child Protection Unit within one hour.
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
Al Ittihad National Private School – Shakhbout City operates from a purpose-built campus designed to support both academic and extracurricular activities. The facilities include safe, functional school buildings with modern classrooms and essential spaces. A well-equipped school library provides books, digital resources, and study areas to support learning. Science laboratories offer hands-on learning in a safe environment with necessary tools and materials. A dedicated school mosque supports daily prayers and quiet reflection. The facilities are organized to promote holistic development and student well-being.
Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
Sports facilities support physical development and promote a healthy, active lifestyle. They include well-maintained indoor and outdoor spaces designed for a variety of sports, physical activities, fitness, teamwork, and recreation. The facilities are used to support daily PE lessons as well as after-school and interscholastic activities. On-site spaces are arranged to accommodate individual training and group play in a safe environment. The design integrates with the overall emphasis on student well-being and physical education.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
School buildings provide a safe, functional, and engaging learning environment with modern classrooms and essential facilities to support both academic and extracurricular activities. The on-site library offers a quiet space with a range of books, digital resources, and study areas to support reading, research, and academic growth. Science laboratories deliver hands-on learning in a safe environment, equipped with essential tools to foster scientific skills and inquiry. The facilities are designed to support a broad curriculum and student engagement across subjects.
Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities, sports, and the arts are encouraged as part of a balanced education. The wellbeing program includes counselors who support students' mental health and resilience. Regular participation in clubs and activities is promoted to cultivate leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. A strong sense of community and inclusive events help students build connections beyond academics. Lifelong wellness and social-emotional learning are integral to the school's approach.
Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Founded in 2018 as the fifth branch of Al Ittihad Private Schools, INPS-Shakhbout serves Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi. The school began with a strong focus on heritage, values, and academic excellence and remains a key branch of the network. It is licensed up to Grade 12 and offers a high-quality American curriculum that promotes both cultural identity and global understanding. The school aims to equip students with 21st-century skills and supports the UAE Centennial 2071 vision, empowering learners to embrace challenges, serve their communities, and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
History
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Community
Community
The INPS-Shakhbout community is called the INPS-Shakhbout Family. The Principal's welcome describes partnership with parents and staff in a shared educational journey and emphasizes nurturing students academically, spiritually, emotionally, and physically to foster compassionate and contributing global citizens. The school hosts events such as the International Day of Tolerance and the University Fair for 2025-2026, and maintains an active Student Life with extracurricular activities. The Governing Board oversees school performance and strategic goals, and the school has a Very Good ADEK rating for 2021-2022 and is accredited by the American International Accreditation Association of Schools and Colleges.
Community
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Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school offers extracurricular activities that supplement classroom learning, including sports, arts, technology, and community service. Students participate in competitions and national and international trips such as Model United Nations (MUN). The learning experience includes advisory and co-curricular programs that help students develop skills beyond academics. Assessments include MAP, CAT4, PISA, and IBT as part of the school's broader learning program.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Arts & Creativity is part of the extracurricular program; activities are led by dedicated instructors and coaches who bring expertise and enthusiasm to each activity. There are opportunities to engage in arts-related activities as part of the wide range of offerings within Extra-Curricular Activities.
Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Cultural understanding and UAE heritage are central to the school's approach, with Emirati culture at the heart of the community. The International Day of Tolerance is celebrated to promote harmony and respect within a diverse student body.
Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
A broad range of clubs and hobbies is offered as part of extracurricular activities, alongside sports, arts, technology, and community service to support personal interests and social connection.
Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
Leadership and Community Service are featured within student life, providing opportunities to engage in service and social responsibility initiatives as part of the extracurricular program.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Advisory and co-curricular programs help students develop leadership skills, teamwork, and other professional competencies as part of their overall education.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Sports and physical activities are available as part of a holistic wellbeing program. The school emphasizes wellbeing and healthy lifestyle choices through diverse activity options and skilled coaching.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
English is the language of instruction in all subjects except Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Moral Education and Arabic Social Studies. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Moral Education and Arabic Social Studies are taught using the Ministry of Education curriculum. The Harcourt American program is used to teach English, Mathematics, and Sciences in K-12. It promotes the Arabic language and the national identity.
Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
English is the language of instruction in all subject matters except for Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Moral Education and Arabic Social Studies. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, Moral Education and Arabic Social Studies are taught using the Ministry of Education curriculum. The Harcourt American program is adopted in teaching English, Mathematics, and Sciences in K-12.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
The school follows an international American curriculum and the Ministry of Education curriculum for Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies. The school is accredited by The American International Accreditation Association of Schools and Colleges (AIAA). The school has achieved a Very Good ADEK rating for 2021-2022 and an Outstanding rating for Emirates National Identity. The school is accredited by The American International Accreditation Association of Schools and Colleges (AIAA).
Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admission procedures: Seats are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority is given to applicants who submit a complete registration with all required documents. An email notification is sent to the addresses provided in the registration. Students are not officially registered until all registration procedures are completed, including payment of the registration fee. If there is no opening in a specific grade level, applicants are placed on the waiting list. Admission policy: The school seeks to actively recruit and retain students while preparing them to be global thinkers; the admission, registration, and placement policies align with Federal Law No. (29) of 2006 on the Rights of People of Determination. Fees and payments: The school's fees are described as transparent, with a 5% sibling discount for the second and third child and a 10% discount for the fourth child and above on tuition; 5% VAT applies to all fees except tuition, books, and transportation. New student registration fee equals 5% of annual tuition; existing student re-registration fee is 5%; tuition fees are paid in three installments (33% in August, 33% on 1 December, and 34% on 1 February), with the second and third installments payable by post-dated cheques. An employer-pay Tuition Fees form may be required if a third party pays tuition. The Tuition Fees Refund Policy exists and ADEK guidelines are referenced for further details. Enrollment process: The enrollment process comprises four steps: (1) Initial Online Form; (2) School Contact to schedule an interview for KG or an entrance exam for Grades 1–11; (3) Document submission with listed documents (recent photo; Emirates IDs for student and parents; passport copies; birth certificate; vaccination record; transfer certificates; equivalency certificates where applicable); (4) On-site formalities with notification to complete remaining formalities and payment of the seat reservation fee within one week of the interview result. Registration process: The registration process uses an online portal with step-by-step guidance and has an admissions team available to assist; contact options include registration@inpsshakhbout.com and 02-555-8333. Location: MFW25 Al Ihsan Street - Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Admissions team contact: 02-555-8333.
Admissions
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Scholarships
Scholarships
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Scholarships
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Waitlist
Waitlist
If there is no opening in a specific grade level, applicants are placed on the waiting list.
