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King's College Riyadh

Saudi Arabia, Riyadh

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees SAR 52,784 - 79,175
Ages 3 - 12 years
Pupil numbers 525
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum British Curriculum
Typical class size 22
Introduction

King's College Riyadh is a British international co‑educational primary school in Al Khalidiyah, Diriyah, Riyadh, offering the British curriculum for children aged 3 to 12. The school delivers the English National Curriculum adapted for Saudi Arabia, with instruction in English and specialist Arabic language teaching from Pre‑School alongside Islamic Studies and Social Studies. King's provides subject‑specialist teaching from the earliest years (Arabic, Music and PE from age 3) and moves to subject specialists across all areas from Year 5; English as an Additional Language (EAL) and learning‑support provision are offered to develop English fluency and access to the curriculum. Facilities at the Diriyah campus include modern science laboratories, specialist art and music rooms, an IT laboratory, library, Arabic learning spaces, two indoor sports halls, a multi‑use outdoor sports pitch and dedicated Early Years outdoor learning areas. The school is part of the King's family of schools and the Cognita group and is opening a new SEDRA campus in 2027.

Al Khalidiyah, Diriyah 13713, Saudi Arabia

The Essentials

King's College Riyadh has 525 pupils, typical class sizes of 22, instruction in English.

Location

The Diriyah campus of King's College Riyadh is located in Diriyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It sits near major routes, including King Khalid Road, making it accessible by car from central Riyadh and surrounding neighbourhoods. The campus is purpose-built for the school and reflects its British-international identity.

Stages

The school currently serves Pre-School to Year 7 (ages 3–13) and plans to extend progressively to Year 13 (up to age 18).

Type

The school is fully co-educational, welcoming both boys and girls.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Public data indicate about 523 students across roughly 41 nationalities, with Saudi Arabian as the most common nationality; local and international students are represented in roughly a 50/50 balance.

Additional learning support

The school provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support and Learning Support, including Individual Education Plans, with group or one-to-one sessions as needed and integration with daily lessons.

Country affiliation

The school is affiliated with the United Kingdom as part of King's College UK and is the first British private school to open in Saudi Arabia; it is part of the Cognita family of schools.

Religious affiliation

There is no formal religious affiliation; Islamic Studies is included as a central component of the curriculum alongside Arabic and Social Studies.

School day structure

School days start at 7:30am. Pre-School and Reception finish at 1:45pm; Year 1–7 finish at 2:35pm. Breakfast club runs from 6:30am, with after-school activities (ECAs) for Pre-School/Reception until 2:30pm and for Year 1–7 until 3:30pm.

Bus service

King's College Riyadh does not publicly publish a dedicated school bus service on its materials. Riyadh has a city-wide Riyadh Bus network launched in 2023, with routes including King Saud University Station to the Diplomatic Quarter; public transport information and tickets are available via the Riyadh Bus system.
Fees

Annual tuition at King's College Riyadh ranges from SAR 52,784 to SAR 79,175 for 2026/27.

Application, Assessment and Enrolment Fees

- Application fee: SAR 550 (one-off, non-refundable).
- Assessment fee: SAR 1,100 (one-off; refundable only if a place is not offered).
- Registration (enrolment) fee: SAR 3,800 (one-off, non-refundable, payable after an offer is made).
- Place deposit: 50% of the first term's fees (non-refundable; deducted from the first term's fees).

Tuition fees by year group (amounts per term and annual totals)

- Pre-School:
- Term 1: SAR 18,360
- Term 2: SAR 18,360
- Term 3: SAR 9,179
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 45,899
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 52,784.

- Reception:
- Term 1: SAR 18,360
- Term 2: SAR 18,360
- Term 3: SAR 9,179
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 45,899
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 52,784.

- Year 1:
- Term 1: SAR 20,654
- Term 2: SAR 20,654
- Term 3: SAR 10,328
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 51,636
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 59,381.

- Year 2:
- Term 1: SAR 20,654
- Term 2: SAR 20,654
- Term 3: SAR 10,328
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 51,636
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 59,381.

- Year 3:
- Term 1: SAR 25,244
- Term 2: SAR 25,244
- Term 3: SAR 12,623
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578.

- Year 4:
- Term 1: SAR 25,244
- Term 2: SAR 25,244
- Term 3: SAR 12,623
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578.

- Year 5:
- Term 1: SAR 25,244
- Term 2: SAR 25,244
- Term 3: SAR 12,623
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578.

- Year 6:
- Term 1: SAR 25,244
- Term 2: SAR 25,244
- Term 3: SAR 12,623
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 63,111
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 72,578.

- Year 7:
- Term 1: SAR 27,539
- Term 2: SAR 27,539
- Term 3: SAR 13,770
- Annual fees (excl VAT): SAR 68,848
- Annual fees (inc VAT where applicable): SAR 79,175.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Tuition may be paid in full at the start of the academic year or in three instalments payable in advance of each term. All fees are payable in advance of the start of each term.
- Indicative invoice/payment dates: Term 1 re-enrolment invoice issued 4 May (payment by 3 June); Term 1 balance payment by 8 July; Term 2 invoice issued 12 October (payment by 7 December); Term 3 invoice issued 8 February (payment by 8 March).
- Re-enrolment fee for the next academic year: 20% of the annual tuition fee for the year group; deductible from the first term's fees and non-refundable. The child's place is not guaranteed until the re-enrolment fee is received.
- Late payment charge: SAR 2,000 per month (or part thereof) for overdue fees. Post-dated cheques may be accepted by arrangement to avoid late fees.
- Notice to withdraw: written notice must be given at least one full term in advance via the school's Leaver's Form; if no notice is given, the fees for the following term are payable.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not applicable. The school is operating for pupils from Pre-School through Year 7 and there is no boarding provision for these year groups.

Other costs and additional charges

- Tuition does not include school lunches, transportation, educational trips, or extracurricular activities provided by external providers; those items are charged separately.
- Typical additional charges include: breakfast club, after-school care, late room, learning support, EAL support, private music lessons, holiday camps, academy activities and certain co-curricular programmes.
- Educational trips: a minimum school bus charge applies (minimum SAR 50 per trip) plus any entrance or activity fees; residential trip charges are higher and communicated in advance.
- Public and external examination fees (where applicable) are payable by parents; this includes music exams, LAMDA, IGCSE and other external exam charges plus related administrative/postage fees.
- Uniform: all uniform items must be purchased through the school's approved uniform provider except items specifically noted as parents' responsibility on the uniform list. Specific uniform prices are communicated by the school/uniform supplier.

Refunds and deposit policy

- Deposits are non-refundable except in exceptional circumstances.
- If fees have been paid annually in full before the due date, a refund of remaining term(s) will be given provided one term's written notice of withdrawal is supplied in advance; the 5% annual payment discount will not be applied to any refund.
- No refund is given for casual absence, sickness, holidays, periods of exclusion or other similar circumstances. Refunds are processed in accordance with Ministry of Education regulations and the school's fee policy.

Fee payment options and conditions

- Preferred method: online bank transfer (include invoice number and child's full name; provide remittance to the Finance Department).
- Direct payment at the school is accepted by credit and debit card (Visa, MasterCard, Mada and American Express).
- Post-dated cheques are accepted by arrangement with the Finance team.
- Discount conditions: the 5% discount for full-year payment and the 5% sibling discount are only available when payment is made by bank transfer or cheque; cash and debit/credit card payments are not accepted for discounted fees.
- For payment queries or to confirm payment details, contact the school's Finance or Admissions teams as listed on official communications.
Academics

King's College Riyadh teaches British Curriculum for students aged 3 to 12.

Curriculum

King's College Riyadh delivers a distinctive British education rooted in King's College UK, using the English National Curriculum adapted for Riyadh. The school serves Pre-School to Year 7 (ages 3–13) now, with growth planned to Year 13; Early Years to Prep follow the English National Curriculum with specialist teaching in Arabic, Music and PE from age 3, and from Year 5 all subjects are taught by specialist teachers. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central to the programme.

Student Teacher Ratio

Small class sizes.

Exam Results

The school offers an outstanding British education from EYFS to Year 8, with Arabic language outcomes rated Very Good by ABT.
Parent Experience

History

King's College Riyadh is part of the Cognita family of Schools and carries the King's College UK heritage, with over 140 years of educational tradition. It was the first British private school to open in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Diriyah campus serves boys and girls from Pre-School to Year 7 (ages 3–13) and is planned to grow year by year to Year 13. The King's approach blends British education with Saudi culture and traditions.

Community

The Diriyah campus supports a broad, inclusive school community with a focus on balanced development in academics, sport and the arts. The parent community, Friends of King's, organizes events, celebrations and initiatives that strengthen the community and create lasting connections, working closely with school leadership. The school's heritage is linked to the King's family of schools and to Cognita, reinforcing cross-school connections and shared values. Arabic language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central to the programme, helping students connect with Saudi culture while engaging with a global perspective.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Friends of King's is the school's parent community at the heart of the school's culture. This group of parents meets regularly with the leadership team to plan activities that bring families together, support key projects and celebrate the shared spirit of the school. They organize events, celebrations and initiatives that strengthen connections and contribute to a warm, inclusive and supportive atmosphere for King's College Riyadh. Involvement by parents enriches their children's educational experience and helps sustain a collaborative school environment.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

King's College Riyadh has a purpose-built campus in Diriyah. The campus includes two indoor sports halls, a mixed-use outdoor sports pitch, a multi-use central atrium, science laboratories, a dedicated library, an IT lab, art and music studios, and specialist Early Years play areas. The school is a premium British International School, fully co-educational, delivering an all-round British curriculum. Arabic language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the curriculum, and Arabic is offered from Pre-School and delivered by specialist teachers.

Sports Facilities

The campus features two indoor sports halls and a mixed-use outdoor sports pitch for physical education and fixtures.

Academic Facilities

The curriculum is rooted in the English National Curriculum in the Pre-Prep years. From Year 5 onwards, all subjects are led by specialist teachers, including Arabic, Music and Physical Education. Arabic language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the curriculum. Arabic language is offered from Pre-School and delivered by specialist teachers.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Co-curricular activities run after school and include Gymnastics, Ballet and Art Club in Pre-Prep; in Prep, options include the World Scholar's Cup, Science Club and rehearsals for music and drama productions, along with additional sports fixtures. An After School Care programme is available.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

King's College Riyadh provides an extensive range of academic enrichment beyond classroom lessons. In the Prep School, students participate in Science Club and Art Club, and The World Scholar's Cup is part of the program. Early years include Gymnastics and Ballet to support physical development, while sports, music and drama accompany the core curriculum. These experiences are an essential part of the King's education.

Arts & Creative

Arts and creative pursuits are a core part of life beyond lessons. Students engage in music and drama, and Art Club provides ongoing opportunities for creative expression. The program emphasises collaboration, performance and visual arts as outlets for imagination and communication.

Social & Hobbies

Beyond the classroom, students engage in activities that foster energy, creativity and teamwork. A diverse range of sport, music, art and drama offers opportunities to grow in courage and leadership, while building friendships. These experiences help pupils develop social confidence and collaborative skills that support their overall growth.

Community & Service

Wellbeing and social responsibility are integral to school life. The Cognita Be Well Charter guides healthy choices and regular physical activity, and the Sparkle Foundation partnership enables giving and community involvement for students and families. Pastoral care supports emotional wellbeing and safeguarding, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

Leadership & Professional

Leadership development is built into the co-curricular program. Each term offers opportunities to take on responsibilities, develop leadership, and collaborate with peers. The World Scholar's Cup and other activities provide platforms for teamwork, public speaking and enterprise.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The Cognita Be Well Charter supports wellbeing with six pillars, including healthy eating and regular physical activity. Pastoral care focuses on happy, resilient learners and safeguarding ensures a safe environment. The Be Well framework aims to keep students active, socially connected and mentally balanced.
Languages

Language Provision

The school follows a British curriculum based on the English National Curriculum. Arabic Language, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central components of the programme, and Arabic is taught from Pre‑School by subject specialist teachers. From Pre‑Prep, specialist teaching in Arabic, Islamic Studies, Music, PE and Swimming is provided. From Year 5, all subjects are taught by specialist teachers. English as an Additional Language (EAL) supports learners in accessing the curriculum, with progress monitored and Learning Support offers Individual Education Plans when needed.

Bilingual Teaching

The school delivers a British curriculum with Arabic language alongside English and supports Arabic language through specialist teaching; Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies are central to the curriculum.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Make an Enquiry. The Admissions Team provides a personalised and supportive admissions experience. Enquiries are submitted via the Enquiry Form or by contacting the team directly. Availability is limited in some year groups, so families are advised to begin the process early to secure a place. 2. Visit King's College Riyadh. Experience life at King's through a personalised campus tour. Tours are available throughout the week at convenient times. You can meet the Leadership Team during your visit. 3. Submit your application. Complete the online application form and upload the required documents. The Admissions Team will assist if needed and will help you prepare for next steps. Submission moves forward once the online form is submitted. 4. Assessment & Offer. An assessment is arranged to understand your child's learning needs and potential. For families applying from overseas, remote assessments can be organised. Assessment outcomes are shared within a few days, and successful applicants receive an offer of a place. 5. Secure your place. To confirm your child's place at King's College Riyadh, accept the offer, provide the requested documents and complete the enrolment fee within the given timeframe. The school looks forward to welcoming your family into the community.
School Events
The school has not added events