American International School in Abu Dhabi vs The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys

	A American International School in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates	T The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 32,950 - 59,900	Fees / year AED 45,000 - 78,050
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, UAE Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,399	Pupils 1,378
Typical class size	Typical class size 10	Typical class size 24
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened —	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The American International School in Abu Dhabi is located on the 29th Street of Airport Road in Abu Dhabi, opposite the Pepsi-Cola Plant. The mailing address is P.O. Box 5992, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits along a major Abu Dhabi corridor with ready road access and nearby residential communities. The school can be reached by telephone at (971) 2 2072 999 or (971) 2 4444 333.	Location The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys is located on Al Falah Street, Abu Dhabi. It sits in downtown Abu Dhabi as part of The Sheikh Zayed Private Academies group. The campus is a single building with shared grounds, and school transport operates within Abu Dhabi Island.
Stages	Stages AISA serves students from Kindergarten through Grade 12. It offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme for the elementary years and the IB Diploma Programme for the high school, alongside an American curriculum.	Stages The school serves students aged 3 to 19. Pre-K through Grade 3 are co-educational across the SZPA group; from Grade 4 onward SZPAB is all-boys and SZPAG is girls-only.
School type	School type The school operates as a co-educational institution in the elementary years, with a gender-segregated model in the secondary years.	School type SZPAB is a boys' day school. The SZPA group operates a co-educational model from Pre-K through Grade 3, transitioning to single-gender provision from Grade 4 (boys at SZPAB, girls at SZPAG).
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body includes students from more than 80 countries and totals over 1,300 students. While the overall multinational mix is public, a detailed breakdown by nationality and the local-to-international ratio is not published.	Pupil nationality mix SZPAB reports a diverse student body; approximately 95% of students are Emirati. Public materials do not disclose an exact count of nationalities represented, but international enrollment is a minority (about 5%).
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning Support (LS) helps students with identified learning needs, with specialists working in small groups or individually and, where applicable, a Student Success Plan with goals and accommodations. English language learning support is provided through an English Language Learning (ELL) program for non-native speakers.	Additional learning support The school has an Inclusion Team with Learning Support staff, school counselors, and nurses. Learning support is provided based on assessed needs to enable students to reach their potential, and the team advises teachers on appropriate strategies.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation AISA follows an American curriculum and is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA-CESS). It is an International Baccalaureate World School authorized for the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme.	Country affiliation The school is based in the United Arab Emirates. The SZPA network promotes Emirati national identity within an international framework and uses a blended curriculum that combines American and UAE MOE components.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation. The UAE context is reflected in the Arabic & Islamic program offered to Muslim students, including Islamic Studies and Arabic language instruction as part of the school's UAE curriculum.	Religious affiliation There is no explicit religious affiliation. Islamic Studies is included as part of the UAE MOE curriculum alongside Arabic and UAE Social Studies.
School day structure	School day structure KG1 begins at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 1:30 p.m. (KG2–12 start at 7:30 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m.). A canteen operates during the school day, with lunch options available and pre-ordering for younger students via the Spare app; older students may purchase lunch in the canteen.	School day structure The school day starts at 7:55am. Pre-K to KG2 finishes at 12:35pm (Mon–Thu) and 12:00pm on Fridays; Grades 1–12 finish at 2:45pm (Mon–Thu) and 12:00pm on Fridays.
Bus service details	Bus service details AISA provides bus service for students needing transportation. A transportation form must be completed and submitted to the Accounts office to arrange service. For queries, contact the Transport Coordinator, Mr. Jay Kumar (JKumar@aisa.sch.ae).	Bus service details The school bus service is provided by Emirates Transport. Bus routes are designed to keep travel times within 60 minutes of each origin and destination. The annual bus fee is AED 5,000, and seats are secured after payment. Buses are CCTV-monitored and have a licensed bus supervisor. Bus information is available through the SZPAB contact channels and the ADEK Bus Transportation Safety Guidelines.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration fees - Registration fee (new students): KG1 to G4 — AED 2,000; G5 to G8 — AED 2,400; G9 to G12 — AED 2,800. This registration fee is non‑refundable and is credited against first term tuition. Tuition fees by year group (annual and per‑term) Tuition is shown in UAE Dirhams (AED). Tuition is presented as an annual amount and as three equal term instalments, because the school divides tuition into at least three equal instalments per academic year. The annual figures for the 2025/2026 academic year are: - Kindergarten (4‑year‑old level / Kindg.2): Annual AED 32,950 — three equal instalments of AED 10,983.33 each. - Kindergarten (5‑year‑old level / Kindg.3): Annual AED 34,450 — three equal instalments of AED 11,483.33 each. - Grade 1 to Grade 4: Annual AED 46,430 — three equal instalments of AED 15,476.67 each. - Grade 5 to Grade 8: Annual AED 50,910 — three equal instalments of AED 16,970.00 each. - Grade 9 to Grade 12: Annual AED 59,900 — three equal instalments of AED 19,966.67 each. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school may collect the first instalment of tuition up to one month before the start of the academic year. - Tuition must be divided into a minimum of three equal instalments per academic year; parents may request a different instalment schedule (for example 4, 6 or 10 instalments) only by written agreement with the school. - Example instalment date patterns are published by the school (the school may provide specific dates for the academic year and for alternative instalment plans). - If a parent misses payments and does not remedy the situation after three consecutive reminders (each one week apart), the school may: suspend the student's enrolment for up to three days per term, withhold test results and transfer certificates, and restrict access to the school information system. Continued non‑payment can lead to refusal of re‑enrolment for the next academic year unless outstanding fees are cleared. Boarding fees - The school operates as a day school and does not offer boarding; therefore no boarding fees apply. Other costs and recurring fees - Bus registration fee: AED 500 payable before the start of the academic year for students who require bus services; this amount is credited toward first‑semester bus fees and is non‑refundable if the service is later cancelled. - Transportation (bus) fees: billed separately (parents must contact the transport coordinator for routes and exact fees). - Uniform: the school operates an online uniform shop; home delivery within Abu Dhabi carries a AED 15 delivery fee. Exchanges via delivery incur an additional AED 15 fee. Orders are processed within 2–3 working days. - IB examination costs: IB examination billing and fees are published for IB candidates and are billed in addition to tuition where applicable (IB examination billing information is made available by the school). - Other possible charges: books, resources, activity or computer fees, examination fees and optional extracurricular or enrichment charges may apply in addition to tuition (these items are billed separately). Refund information - The registration fee for new students is stated as non‑refundable; the school applies it as a credit to the first term's tuition. - Refunds of tuition and other fees follow regulatory guidance; ADEK fee policy sets out refund/retention scales (for example different retention amounts based on the length of attendance during the term) and rules for registration fee refunds in specific circumstances. The school's published policies and ADEK regulations govern any refundable amounts and the conditions under which refunds are issued. Fee payment options - Cash (UAE Dirhams only). - Local bank cheque payable to American International School LLC. - Wire transfer (bank fees to be paid by the sender). Bank details published by the school: Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank; SWIFT ADCBAEAA; Account number 11749439920002; IBAN AE960030011749439920002. Parents must state the student registration number on transfers and email proof of payment to accounts@aisa.sch.ae. - Mobile payment portal (Skiply app): online payments via Skiply are available and accept debit/credit card payments through the app (parents register with the same email and mobile number used by the school and select the student and payment type in the Skiply interface). Notes and practical points - Registration fees are credited to first term tuition at enrolment. - Bus registration (AED 500) is treated as an advance toward the first semester's bus fees and is non‑refundable if transportation is later declined. - The school's Parent Guide on payment sets the instalment minimum (three equal instalments) and describes non‑payment procedures; alternative instalment schedules require written agreement with the school. If you require the fee figures presented above in another format, they are the school's published annual tuition levels for the 2025/2026 academic year and the per‑term instalments above are the equal three‑instalment breakdown required by the school's published payment guidance.	Fee details Application / Registration fee - A registration fee equal to 5% of the annual tuition is payable when an offer is accepted. Annual tuition fees (2025–2026) — by year group - Pre K: AED 45,000. - KG1 & KG2: AED 58,390. - Grades 1–5: AED 64,250. - Grades 6–9: AED 70,920. - Grades 10–12: AED 78,050. Per-term / installment amounts and how fees are billed - The registration fee (5% of the annual fee) is paid on acceptance. The remaining tuition is split into three installments. Installments are paid across the three academic terms. The standard calculation is: Registration = 5% of annual fee; Remaining tuition = 95% of annual fee; Each installment = Remaining tuition ÷ 3. - Example instalments (rounded to two decimal places) using the school's 2025–2026 annual fees: - Pre K — Registration: AED 2,250.00; Three equal term installments: AED 14,250.00 each. - KG1 & KG2 — Registration: AED 2,919.50; Three equal term installments: AED 18,490.17 each. - Grades 1–5 — Registration: AED 3,212.50; Three equal term installments: AED 20,345.83 each. - Grades 6–9 — Registration: AED 3,546.00; Three equal term installments: AED 22,458.00 each. - Grades 10–12 — Registration: AED 3,902.50; Three equal term installments: AED 24,715.83 each. Billing schedule and payment terms - The 5% registration fee is due on acceptance. The remaining tuition balance is payable in three installments aligned to the three school terms. Non-payment may result in withholding of report cards or transfer documentation and follow-up according to ADEK guidelines. Bank / payment details and accepted payment method(s) - The school provides bank account details for payment by bank transfer. For the Boys Academy the bank information is provided as follows: Account Name: The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys LLC; Bank: First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC; Branch: Main Branch, Abu Dhabi, UAE; IBAN: AE450357771001842202010; SWIFT: NBADAEAA. Payments are therefore settled via bank transfer to the account details above unless other arrangements are agreed with the accounts office. Boarding fees (if applicable) - Boarding is not applicable. The academies operate as day schools; no boarding provision or boarding fees are listed. Other costs and fees - Uniforms are not included in the published tuition fees. A school uniform supply contact is available; uniform costs are additional and purchased separately. - Transportation is not included in the tuition fees. School bus fees are charged separately; published bus fees are AED 5,000 per year for the service (one-way or two-way the same), with seats secured only after complete payment. - A school digital device is compulsory from Grades 3 through 12; the cost of the device is additional to the tuition fee and parents will be informed of the charge. - Any optional extras (co-curricular charges, trips, exam fees, laptops/devices beyond the compulsory device, specialist materials) are charged in addition to the tuition and are not reflected in the annual tuition figures above. Refund and withdrawal policy - If a parent withdraws before the start of the academic year and submits the official withdrawal form to the registrar, the 5% registration advance is refundable. If withdrawal occurs after the start of the academic year, the school charges according to the student's period of attendance: no-show or attendance under 1 week — registration/re-registration fee only; over 1 week and up to 3 weeks in the term — one full month's tuition; over 3 weeks and up to 6 weeks — two full months' tuition; over 6 weeks — full term tuition. Non-payment consequences - Outstanding fees may lead to withholding of examination report cards, transfer certificates or blocking transfer on eSIS; the school will issue warning letters and proceed according to ADEK non-payment guidelines. Notes - The figures above are the published applied tuition fees for the academic year 2025–2026 for The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys, and other mandatory or optional charges (uniform, transport, devices, co-curricular or trip costs) are extra to the tuition figures shown.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement There is a school uniform. Uniforms are sold on campus Monday to Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Parents should purchase uniforms before the first day of school.	Uniform requirement SZPAB maintains a strict uniform policy. Students must wear the official school uniform for their grade level, and modifications are not permitted. Uniforms can be purchased online or from the Globe Uniform shop located on The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Girls campus.
Food options	Food options The canteen is open during the school day for KG1 to Grade 12. Students may purchase meals from the cafeteria or bring their own lunch. The cafeteria is catered by Food Nation, and lunches can be pre-purchased using the Spare app; KG1–4 students must pre-order lunches via the app with delivery to classrooms, while Grades 5–12 can purchase lunch in the canteen.	Food options An in-school catering service is available for Grades 1–12, operated by Emirates Taste Catering Services, offering hot and cold food in pre-wrapped portions as a grab-and-go service. Pre-K to KG2 students should bring a healthy snack; Grades 1–3 students may bring snacks or order from the school canteen for delivery to homeroom during break, while Grades 4–12 students may bring snacks or purchase from the canteen.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school operates as part of Esol Education, a global network of international schools. It is fully approved and licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education and accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council of International Schools. It is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme.	Governance and ownership SZPAB is governed as part of The Sheikh Zayed Private Academies (SZPA), a group that includes SZPAG and SZPAB. The site does not publish a specific statement about the legal ownership structure.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details AISA offers the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) for KG1–Grade 5 and an American-curriculum pathway for Grades 6–12 that integrates IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning, culminating in an American diploma; students in Grades 11–12 may also pursue the IB Diploma Programme with preparation beginning in Grade 10. The Elementary level implements the PYP and aligns English and Math with the Common Core State Standards, Science with Next Generation Science Standards, and Social Studies with the C3 Framework. In Middle School (Grades 6–8), core courses are English, Humanities, Mathematics, and Science, with inquiry-based learning, and a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy requiring Grade 6 to bring a device and Grade 7+ to bring a laptop. In High School, the program maintains the CCSS/NGSS framework and IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning, offering the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12 alongside the American diploma. AISA is an IB World School authorized for PYP and DP and is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council of International Schools, with UAE MOE approval and ADEK rating of Good.	Curriculum details SZPAB delivers a blended curriculum that combines the American Massachusetts State Common Core with the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum, including MOE subjects Arabic, Islamic Studies and UAE Social Studies, and programs such as My Identity. Arabi, an Arabic language enhancement program, was launched in 2022-2023 to strengthen Arabic from KG1 to Grade 12. The Eyal Zayed Program, a joint initiative with the UAE Armed Forces, aims to develop leadership, loyalty and service among students. SZPAB is accredited by CIS and NEASC and is designated by the College Board to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school organizes its curriculum by stage: Early Childhood (Pre-K to Grade 1), Elementary (Grades 2–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8) and High School (Grades 9–12); Middle School assessments are standards-based with MAP testing, while High School uses traditional percentage-based grading with regular parent reports. SZPAB is an Apple Distinguished School, reflecting a strong emphasis on technology-enabled, innovative learning.
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 AISA provides a counseling program centered on social-emotional development as a core element of student support. School Counselors act as student advocates and work in partnership with students, administrators, staff, and families. The counseling program aims to help each student realize maximum potential in three areas: social-emotional, academic, and university/career development. Counselors assist students in developing the skills, mindsets, and behaviors needed to become successful students, responsible global citizens, and lifelong learners. This approach aligns with AISA's Guiding Statements, which emphasize Learning, Belonging, and global citizenship as integrated into the learning experience.	Social & emotional learning SZPAB supports Social and Emotional Learning through a daily homeroom where each student meets with a teacher to monitor personal, social and emotional development, and via an Inclusion Team comprising Learning Support teachers, assistants, school counselors and school nurses who provide targeted support and guidance; the school also fosters a culture of respect and tolerance through the Zayed Tolerance Pledge.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support (LS) is a program designed to support students with identified learning needs. LS specialists work with students in small groups or individually, in the classroom or in a quiet space. They are a resource to all teachers, providing a wide range of strategies to meet the academic needs of different learners. For students with external assessments, a Student Success Plan is created, including goals, differentiation strategies, and accommodations such as assistive technology and testing modifications. A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is described in the Student Services framework, with Tier 1 general support, Tier 2 targeted interventions, and Tier 3 SSPs for intensive support.	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support is provided by the Inclusion Team based on assessed student needs to help those requiring additional assistance; SZPAB is not described as a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English Language Learning (ELL) program supports students within the early stages of English acquisition. The ELL Specialists work with small groups and occasionally one-on-one as needed. They collaborate closely with homeroom teachers. Although the time frame varies, typical ELLs develop their language skills to a level that allows more independent social and academic success, at which point they exit the program. The ELL Specialists are a great resource for teachers when it comes to supporting the language development of all students.	English as an additional language The SZPAB Key Information page does not publicly disclose any English as an Additional Language (EAL) provisions.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the Counseling program, which centers on social-emotional development as part of student support. AISA Counselors are student advocates who work in partnership with students, administrators, staff and families. The Counseling program aims to help students realize maximum potential in three key areas: social/emotional, academic, and university/career domains. Counselors assist students in acquiring the skills, mindset, and behaviors needed to become successful students, responsible global citizens, career-ready employees, and lifelong learners. This approach aligns with the Guiding Statements emphasizing Learning and Belonging, reflecting a holistic approach to well-being and intercultural learning.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through Health & Safety provisions, including daily homeroom monitoring of academic, social and emotional development and an Inclusion Team with counselors and nurses to support student wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding: AISA states alignment with the International Taskforce on Child Protection in its recruitment practices, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding. This alignment signals a formal emphasis on safeguarding within staffing and school operations. Counseling and MTSS-based supports are among the welfare structures described on publicly accessible pages, contributing to student safety and wellbeing. The English Language Learning and Learning Support programs also support safeguarding by ensuring inclusive access and ongoing monitoring of student welfare.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is central to the school's policies: all staff have a pastoral duty to protect children and safeguarding guidelines, including child protection provisions, are outlined in Health & Safety.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus spans 30,517 square meters and has capacity for 1,300+ students. It features science and technology laboratories and an athletic complex that includes a regulation grass soccer field, two swimming pools, two gymnasiums, and two outdoor plus two indoor basketball courts. The school hosts two libraries, with a collection of over 20,000 books and ebooks. Secondary students bring their own devices under a BYOD program, and Elementary students have access to laptop carts to support learning.	Facilities overview The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys occupies a single building with shared grounds and serves students from Pre-K through Grade 12. The campus includes a canteen, two sports halls, two swimming pools, five science laboratories, clinics, and prayer rooms, plus a spacious outdoor field. Indoor facilities include green screen studios, LEGO innovation spaces, digital music suites, and a high IT infrastructure to support a one-to-one iPad program, with learning support suites. The school also has two libraries and a variety of outdoor spaces for recreation and athletics.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The athletic facilities include two gymnasiums; two outdoor basketball courts and two indoor basketball courts; a regulation grass soccer field; and two swimming pools.	Sports facilities The campus provides two indoor sports halls for a range of indoor activities. There are two swimming pools for aquatic programs and competitive swimming. Outdoor facilities include a five-lane running track, an outdoor football pitch, and basketball courts for team sports. Additional recreational features include a climbing apparatus and a skateboard park that support physical education and active play.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The school teaches an American curriculum aligned with the Common Core Standards in English and Math. It is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme, with programs described as student-centred and inquiry-based. Educational technology supports a blended, technology-infused environment; Secondary students participate in BYOD, while Elementary students have access to laptop carts. The library hosts over 20,000 books and ebooks, and MAP tests assess students' progress.	Academic facilities Five science laboratories form part of the science wing, enabling hands-on experiments across disciplines. The campus includes two libraries to support reading, research, and study. Indoor facilities include green screen studios, LEGO innovation spaces, and digital music suites to support creative and media projects. A high IT infrastructure underpins a one-to-one iPad program, and dedicated learning support suites provide small-group help for students who need extra assistance.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities AISA offers a full range of after-school activities, including athletics, drama, music, arts, crafts, Model United Nations, and service activities. It participates in the Junior EAC and OASIS athletic conferences. The Activities section includes Campus Recreation, Performing and Fine Arts, and Student Organizations. AISA emphasizes community involvement through volunteerism and service learning.	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a wide variety of extra curricular activities to address different interests and enrich student experiences. The secondary enrichment program supports graduation and university placement. The Student Council provides opportunities for student leadership and involvement in school development, and SZPAB sports teams regularly participate in athletic events as part of the school's competitive program.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Established in 1995, the American International School in Abu Dhabi was founded to provide high-quality American education based on American standards and an international curriculum for local and expatriate residents. It is one of ten ESOL Education schools in the Middle East. The school received its first accreditation in October 1997 from the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges and was accredited by the Council of International Schools in January 2010. It was the first school in the UAE to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma and later the first in Abu Dhabi to be authorized to offer the IB Primary Years Programme. The Secondary School operates under a gender-segregated model.	History The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys (SZPAB) opened in 2015 in downtown Abu Dhabi to continue the legacy of The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Girls, which was established in 2000 to fulfill the vision of the late President, H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. SZPA comprises The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Girls (SZPAG) and The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys (SZPAB), and promotes a blended curriculum that emphasizes Emirati identity within an international framework. The founding mission centers on developing Arabic literacy and knowledge of UAE values as core guiding principles for both schools. The campus is designed to accommodate around 1,400 students and features facilities that support technology-enabled learning. Ownership and management are provided by Al Ain Educational Investments, which oversees SZPA.
Community	Community The AISA community is internationally diverse, with students from over 80 countries and more than 30 languages spoken. AISA engages families through annual and seasonal events on campus, including book fairs, AISA Fest, National Day celebrations, and Wellness Fairs. Giving back through volunteerism and service learning is a framework of student life at the school.	Community SZPAB serves a largely Emirati student body, with about 95% of students being Emirati. Students develop leadership through the Student Council and participate in community service activities with organizations such as the Red Crescent. The school offers a broad range of activities—including clubs, sports, arts, Qur'an Recitation, and enrichment programs—with international travel opportunities available. An Arabic-language enrichment Arabi program was launched to strengthen Arabic from KG1 to Grade 12.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The AISA PTSA is a vibrant group of parents, teachers, and students dedicated to building a strong, inclusive community. It coordinates events such as the Book Fair, theater and musical performances, UAE National Day celebrations, Teacher Appreciation Day, and NESAC events, as well as Athletics Boosters. Newcomers Coffee and the Ambassador Program help new families settle in. The PTSA runs a writing competition for grades 3-12 and supports the Parents as a Primary Source initiative, road safety events, movie evenings, and school tours for newcomers. Mother Tongue Day celebrates language diversity with activities led by parents who speak languages other than English. Those interested can contact ptsa@aisa.sch.ae to join.	Parent teacher association The SZPAB parent engagement operates through the ParentPoint online portal, which provides parents with access to their child's activities and school information. A Student/Parent Handbook outlines expectations and communication channels for families, and weekly emails plus Instagram updates keep families informed. Public materials indicate parent involvement is supported through volunteering and participation in school events coordinated via the ParentPoint system. The school also runs community service campaigns in partnership with Emirates Red Crescent, offering opportunities for student and parent participation in service initiatives. While a standalone PTA page is not publicly described, these channels constitute the formal framework for parent–school collaboration. Finally, student leadership opportunities and parent participation are integrated into the school's broader mission of honoring the past and educating for the future.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers an American curriculum and is an IB World School, authorized for the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP). The PYP serves KG1 to Grade 5, while Grades 6–12 follow the American curriculum with DP preparation beginning in Grade 10. The curriculum integrates the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for English and Math, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and MOE standards for Arabic, Islamic Studies, and UAE Social Studies, alongside IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning. MAP tests are used to assess student progress, and BYOD is implemented in Secondary, with devices encouraged for students in Grade 6 and above.	Academic & intellectual SZPAB offers a standards-based American-MOЕ blended curriculum. The curriculum combines the American Massachusetts State Common Core Curriculum with the UAE Ministry of Education Curriculum, and includes MAP-based assessment in reading, language, math, and science. The school provides an Advanced Placement (AP) program designated by the College Board.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative IB Art is offered, with Visual Arts exploring design across media and a two-year IB Art program that culminates in an annual IB art exhibition. Performing and Fine Arts programs are available as part of the after-school offerings, including opportunities in drama and music. The school maintains an active arts presence through after-school activities and visual/performing arts events.	Arts & creative —
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Arabic & Islamic studies and UAE Social Studies are taught in alignment with MOE curriculum standards, ensuring UAE core subject coverage. The school's IB World School status supports international-mindedness and cross-cultural learning, complemented by IB World language and social studies components. World languages are integrated within the curriculum as part of the IB framework and MOE standards.	Cultural & language —
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies AISA offers a full range of after-school activities, with options in sports, drama, music, arts, crafts, Model United Nations, and service activities. The Athletics program includes team-based competitions and leagues, with participation across Elementary to Varsity levels and membership in JEAC, EAC, and NESAC. Student life is enriched by clubs and performance opportunities as part of the after-school ecosystem.	Social & hobbies —
Community & service	Community & service Giving Back emphasizes volunteerism and service-learning as a core element of student life. The PTSA engages parents and students in events such as book fairs, theatre and musical performances, UAE National Day celebrations, Teacher Appreciation Day, and wellness-focused activities, fostering community involvement. AISA hosts community events and NESAC athletics events that bring families and staff together.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Elementary and Secondary Student Councils provide formal leadership opportunities, with a Student Council and a Senior Committee shaping school events and student voice. The PTSA and alumni networks offer additional leadership and community engagement avenues, connecting families with school governance and professional development opportunities. These structures support student leadership, governance, and collaboration with teachers and administrators.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Campus Recreation provides safe, healthy activities to promote a balanced lifestyle, including After School Recreation Programs and Intramural Leagues for students and programs for parents. The Athletics program offers multiple sports and competitive opportunities across age groups, supporting physical fitness and teamwork. The after-school ecosystem also integrates wellness and fitness events as part of school life.	Lifestyle & wellbeing —
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school uses English for instruction as part of its American curriculum and IB programs. Arabic language is taught daily, with AFL for native Arabic speakers and ASL for non-native speakers in the secondary program; Islamic Studies is offered to all Muslim students in English or Arabic. English Language Learning (ELL) supports students in the early stages of English acquisition; ELL specialists work with small groups and sometimes one-on-one, and students exit the program once they achieve proficiency. The school is an International Baccalaureate World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the Diploma Programme (DP).	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards The school has been rated 'Outstanding' in the ADEK Irtiqaa inspection program and received an 'Outstanding' National Identity mark in 2022-2023.
Accreditations	Accreditations The school is fully accredited in the United States by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and internationally by the Council of International Schools. It is fully approved and licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education and was rated 'Good' by ADEK. It is an International Baccalaureate World School authorized for the Primary Years Programme and the Diploma Programme, and it is a member of ECIS, CIS, and NESA.	Accreditations The school has CIS and NEASC accreditation and is recognized by the College Board as designated to offer AP courses.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. How to Apply. Admissions are open for the next academic year. Apply to the exact grade using the age guidelines. The MOE circular issued January 26, 2021 sets the 31 August cut‑off for KG1, KG2, and Grade 1. The age guidelines map ages to grades and help determine appropriate placement. 2. Submit Your Application. For the initial application, the following documents are required: a completed AISA application form; a copy of the student's current year report and the previous two years' final reports OR Nursery Reports; an AISA recommendation form; standardized test scores; specialist reports supporting the Learning Resources & Health Information section on the application; a copy of the student's valid passport; and a copy of the student's birth certificate translated into English or Arabic. Complete applications are processed; incomplete applications will not be processed. The admissions team reviews complete applications. 3. Upon Acceptance. Upon acceptance, an email is sent to the email addresses provided on the applications. Provide email addresses that are always accessible. A one-time, non-refundable advanced tuition fee will be due in five to ten working days from the date of the offer to secure a place for the student. After one week, AISA reserves the right to offer this seat to another student. 4. Completing the Student File. If bus service is required, complete the Transport Application Form and submit it to the Transport Coordinator; for KG1 students, confirm bus availability to the location before accepting the offer. Complete the AISA health form with copies of immunization records. Complete AISA Policies consent form after reading AISA's Mobile Device & Acceptable Use and AISA's Communications policies. Complete AISA Photo consent form. Provide a digital recent passport-size photo. Provide copies of the mother and father's passports and UAE residency visas, and provide the student's Emirates ID (both sides). Payment of the enrollment fee cannot be made unless these documents are delivered to the admissions office. For students living abroad, UAE documents can be presented on arrival to Abu Dhabi. If the student is accepted into Grade 11 and is interested in the IB Diploma Program, additional Math, English, and Science placement tests are required; results and past transcripts are reviewed by the DP Coordinator to determine acceptance into the IBDP. 5. Grade 11 IB Diploma Program Placement Tests. If accepted into Grade 11 and interested in the IB Diploma Program, Math, English, and Science placement tests must be taken. These results, along with past transcripts, are reviewed to determine acceptance into the IBDP. 6. Documents Required at Start of School Year. During the first week of the new school year, End of Year report card and transfer certificate/letter are required. For transfers within Abu Dhabi, ask the Registrar's Office for the ESIS number to transfer to AISA; for transfers within UAE outside Abu Dhabi, provide a transfer certificate from the last school attended; for transfers from outside the UAE, provide an attested transfer letter signed and stamped by the last school attended. Attestation exemptions apply to North America, Western Europe, Australia, and New Zealand; GCC countries require attestation from the Ministry of Education.	Admissions 1. Submit an online inquiry through Apply now. The Admissions Department will contact you within 24 hours of receipt. You may arrange a school tour by contacting Admissions; office hours are 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM Monday to Thursday and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday. Phone: +971 2 203 3333 Ext 311 or Direct +971 2 203 3311. 2. Complete the online application with all required documents to proceed with registration. Incomplete applications cannot be processed. Required documents include Health Record Form; Recommendation Form (to be completed and stamped by the student's current or most recent school); copies of student's passport; Emirates ID; copies of parent or guardian's passport and residence visa; copies of family entry (for Nationals); birth certificate (attested for non-nationals); three passport-size photos; immunization card; copies of water and electricity bill showing premises ID for ADEK registration; copies of last two years' report cards. 3. The Admissions Department will schedule assessments. Pre-K to KG2 involve group or one-to-one readiness interviews; Grade 1 has an interview to assess English and Arabic literacy and numeracy. Grades 2-5 include MAP-based assessments in reading, language, math, and Arabic; Grades 6-12 use MAP assessments plus interviews and an Admissions questionnaire. Online registration opens in November for the next calendar year. 4. If seats are available, an offer letter is sent within one week of the assessment. The offer is followed by signing and payment of a 5% registration fee to secure the seat. The student's file is then forwarded to ADEK for review; enrollment occurs once ADEK confirms registration.
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Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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