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Canadian International School - Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees AED 39,010 - 51,820
Ages 4 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 900
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Canadian Curriculum
Typical class size 22
Introduction

Canadian International School – Abu Dhabi (CIS) is an Alberta‑accredited international school located in Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, offering the Alberta Program of Studies from Kindergarten to Grade 12 for students aged 4 to 18. The school's primary language of instruction is English (enrolment is open to English‑speaking students; students are not required to be fully fluent on entry), and it delivers mandatory UAE subjects in Arabic, Islamic Studies and UAE Social Studies from KG upwards; Arabic 1 and 2 are offered and French is available at secondary level. The campus is a modern three‑storey compound with six wings and includes two libraries, science laboratories, a computer lab, art and music rooms, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, indoor and outdoor KG play areas, a cafeteria and a grass soccer field; most classrooms have interactive smart boards and individual temperature controls. The school emphasises inquiry‑based learning, offers Advanced Placement courses in Grades 10–12 and awards the Alberta High School Diploma; it is listed as ADEK Outstanding (2023–24).

Khalifa City A, SE43, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Essentials

Canadian International School - Abu Dhabi has 900 pupils, typical class sizes of 22, instruction in English.

Location
The Canadian International School sits in Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi. Khalifa City A is a residential neighbourhood located approximately 30 km from downtown Abu Dhabi. The campus is on a modern compound with a three‑story main building, and KG 1–Grade 1 occupy the first floor, Grades 2–6 the second, and Grades 7–12 the third. The annex includes a gym, a renovated indoor pool, a music room, and a dance/drama and art studio, with on‑site playgrounds and fields.

Stages
The school provides Kindergarten 1 through Grade 12. The main building is organized by floor: KG 1–Grade 1 on the first floor, Grades 2–6 on the second floor, and Grades 7–12 on the third floor.

Type
Private, co-educational day school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
Pupil nationality mix: around 900 students representing about 70 nationalities. The largest groups are Canadian (~22%), Emirati (~14%), American (~13%), and British (~5%).

Additional learning support
The school offers Additional Learning Needs/SEN supports through its Student Services, which provides a range of supports to enhance student learning and targeted interventions as appropriate.

Country affiliation
Country affiliation: Canada. The school follows the Alberta Program of Studies and is Alberta accredited.

Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation: None indicated. Islamic Studies are taught in alignment with UAE MoE requirements as part of the curriculum.

School day structure
Exact start/end times and breaks are not publicly published; families receive the timetable details from admissions. The curriculum includes core subjects with UAE MoE requirements integrated where applicable.

Bus service
A school bus service is provided. Details on routes and fees are published in the School Bus Transportation information as part of admissions.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
Uniforms are mandatory for all CIS pupils. The school maintains an official uniform policy with grade-specific requirements published on the uniform page. Uniforms can be purchased from the CIS Uniform Store, which operates at set hours: Monday–Thursday 08:00–11:00 and 13:00–15:30, and Friday 08:00–12:00.

Food Options
The CIS Abu Dhabi cafeteria offers hot meals, sandwiches, salads, fruits, smoothies and fresh juices. A hot meals voucher system is available, and there is a classroom-delivery service for KG1 and KG2 meal needs.

House System
CIS operates a four-house system: Scorpions (Green), Caribou (Red), Wildcats (Blue) and Falcons (Yellow). Students earn house points for positive behavior and achievements, with weekly updates to the house standings.

Governance and Ownership
The school is privately owned and operated by Canadian International School LLC and functions as an independent institution. It is not part of a larger international school group. The ownership is that of a private UAE‑based entity.
Fees

Annual tuition at Canadian International School - Abu Dhabi ranges from AED 39,010 to AED 51,820 for 2026/27.

Application / Registration fees
- There is no separately published ‘application' charge listed; registration/re-registration costs are included within the published tuition figures and are non‑refundable where applicable.

Tuition fees (term and annual breakdown by year group)
- KG‑1: Term 1 AED 12,735; Term 2 AED 10,830; Term 3 AED 10,830; Annual total AED 36,100.
- KG‑2: Term 1 AED 13,540; Term 2 AED 11,520; Term 3 AED 11,520; Annual total AED 38,400.
- Grade 1 – Grade 5: Term 1 AED 14,730; Term 2 AED 12,450; Term 3 AED 12,450; Annual total AED 41,800.
- Grade 6 – Grade 9: Term 1 AED 15,710; Term 2 AED 13,380; Term 3 AED 13,380; Annual total AED 44,600.
- Grade 10 – Grade 12: Term 1 AED 16,865; Term 2 AED 14,370; Term 3 AED 14,370; Annual total AED 47,900.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Tuition is billed in three instalments (termly). Typical instalment due dates are: 1st instalment due in mid‑August, 2nd instalment due in early‑to‑mid December, and 3rd instalment due in early March. Specific published example dates include: 1st due before 16 August; 2nd due before 10 December; 3rd due before 10 March. Parents must ensure all fee balances are cleared before re‑registration and before final transfer certificates or student results are issued.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not offered by this school. No boarding fees are published. Transportation is available as a paid service; boarding arrangements are not part of the school's fee schedule.

Transportation (bus) fees and payment
- Bus service is charged in addition to tuition. An example published annual bus fee is AED 4,600 for the school year, payable in three instalments (example instalments: 1st AED 1,840 due on/before mid‑August; 2nd AED 1,380 due on/before early December; 3rd AED 1,380 due on/before early March). The bus service is subject to availability and separate enrolment.

Other costs or fees
- Uniforms, field trips, special student activities and transportation are not included in the published tuition and are charged separately. Textbooks and some student kits may be included for certain year groups where noted in the fee schedule, but additional optional items and extracurricular activities incur extra charges. Extra exam or programme fees (where applicable) and any mandatory insurance or materials specified by the school are additional to tuition.

Refund information (tuition refund policy)
- Tuition refund follows Ministry regulations and the school's published policy. If a student attends any part of the first week of a term or fails to show without adequate written notice, the school may retain the registration/re‑registration fee. If a student attends between one week and up to three weeks of a term, the school may retain one month's tuition. Attendance over three weeks and up to six weeks may result in retention of two months' tuition. If a student attends over six weeks of a term, the school may retain the full term's fee. All withdrawal and refund requests must be submitted in writing to the school principal and are processed according to these rules.

Fee payment options and instructions
- Accepted payment methods include bank transfer and cheque; bank transfer instructions and steps are provided for payments and any bank charges must be paid by the sender. Credit card payments are accepted in person at the school's Accounts Department. For fee queries and payment arrangements, parents are instructed to contact the school accounts team.

Notes for parents
- The published tuition figures include certain items (for example, books and registration where explicitly stated) and exclude others (transport, uniform, trips, special activities). Instalment timetables and exact due dates must be observed to avoid disruption to registration or withholding of academic results.
Academics

Canadian International School - Abu Dhabi teaches Canadian Curriculum for students aged 4 to 18.

Curriculum
The Canadian International School Abu Dhabi delivers the Alberta Program of Studies to KG1–Grade 12, aligned with the UAE Ministry of Education. Alberta High School Diploma is earned by accumulating 100 credits, with Grade 12 Diploma Examinations in core subjects accounting for 30% of the final grade. The Alberta program covers English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, English Social Studies, Physical Education, Art and Music, Health, Drama, ICT and French, while Arabic, Islamic Studies and Arabic Social Studies are taught in accordance with UAE MOE specifications. The Secondary Curriculum distinguishes Grades 5–8 (Middle School) and Grades 9–12 (Secondary), with learning outcomes drawn from the Alberta framework and links to Alberta Education resources. The Alberta-accredited curriculum is delivered in coordination with the UAE MOE to provide a globally recognized pathway for further study.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Canadian International School Abu Dhabi supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its Student Services team, which collaborates with students, parents, teachers, school administration, and external specialists to support learning and well-being. The Student Services team offers a range of supports to enhance student learning and optimize successful school experiences. The school provides literacy supports and time-management resources as part of Student Services, including tools such as Jolly Phonics materials, supporting home reading, a daily momentum planner, and a time-management session. The Coping with COVID resources for Parents and Students include What's In My Control?, anxiety-management tips, mindful breathing tips, and healthy habit logs. The Inclusive Education Policy guides how diverse learners are supported within the school.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
SEN are addressed through an Inclusive Education Policy and the School's Student Services Department. The Department offers Speech Therapy, Literacy Support, and Counselling, enabling inclusion for students with diverse learning needs. CIS Abu Dhabi describes its SEN approach as inclusive rather than a dedicated specialist SEN institution, providing supports within the general school structure. English language and academic support are delivered through these services as part of the broader Student Services offering. The exact list of SEN categories supported is not publicly enumerated beyond these services, and no additional specialist SEN units are identified on current public materials.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision is not described as a separate program on publicly available CIS Abu Dhabi materials. The Admissions information states that students are not required to be fluent in English on entry and may require an English assessment. The school indicates that it can accommodate students who need extra support, but there is no explicit description of a dedicated EAL department or EAL courses beyond general Student Services supports. Therefore, explicit EAL provision is not publicly disclosed.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through the CIS Abu Dhabi Student Services resources. The Coping with COVID section provides resources for parents and students, including managing anxiety, mindful breathing tips, What's In My Control?, and healthy habit logs. The Student Services team collaborates with families and staff to promote well-being and support transitions and daily routines. The inclusive approach to wellbeing is reinforced by the Inclusive Education Policy.

Safeguarding
CIS Abu Dhabi maintains a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, as well as an Anti-Bullying and Healthy Relationships Policy, listed among CIS policies. The policies are publicly available on the school's policies page and are described as currently under review. The safeguarding framework is supported by the school's broader Student Services emphasis on welfare, inclusion, and student safety.
Parent Experience

History
Canadian International School Abu Dhabi (CIS Abu Dhabi) was established in 2007. The school is privately owned by Canadian International School LLC, a local Abu Dhabi entity. The curriculum follows the Alberta Program of Studies in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Education, anchoring its Canadian education in an international framework. ADEK rated CIS Abu Dhabi as Outstanding in the 2023-24 inspection round.

Community
CIS Abu Dhabi has a diverse, multi-national community with families from many cultures. The school notes representation of over 80 nationalities. International Day is a marquee event featuring a Parade of Nations, student performances, and booths organized by the parent body. Student life includes a wide range of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, with two libraries on campus to support learning. The school emphasizes family involvement and cultural exchange through events and programs.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The school operates a Parent Council that coordinates activities and supports school life. The Parent Council organizes events such as Staff Appreciation Lunch to recognize staff for their work. International Day is a marquee event shaped by parent volunteering and participation, including a Parade of Nations and cultural booths. Parent volunteers contribute by running country booths and volunteering for activities, with an online form available to sign up. The council collaborates with school leadership to plan activities and maintain ongoing family engagement. The PTA activities reflect the school's emphasis on community and global awareness.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The campus is in Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi, in a new and modern compound. The main building is three stories tall with six wings: KG-1 on the first floor, Grades 2–6 on the second, and Grades 7–12 on the third. It houses two libraries, science labs, a computer lab, two elementary art rooms, and administration offices, with interactive smart boards in most classrooms and temperature controls. The Annex Building contains a gymnasium, a 25-foot indoor pool, a music room, a dance/drama studio, and an art studio. The campus includes a grass soccer field, a central courtyard, a separate elementary playground, and an indoor, air-conditioned Kindergarten playground.

Sports Facilities
The Annex Building houses a gymnasium and a 25-foot indoor pool. The campus includes a grass soccer field and a central courtyard. There is a separate elementary playground and an indoor, air-conditioned Kindergarten playground.

Academic Facilities
The CIS curriculum follows the Alberta Program of Studies in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Education. The school is Alberta Accredited International School. The campus features two libraries, science labs, a computer lab, and art rooms. Most classrooms are equipped with interactive smart boards and temperature controls.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Student Life focuses on developing life skills such as teamwork and leadership. The environment is warm and inclusive, supporting student growth. Students participate in activities that extend learning beyond formal classes. The school values holistic development and leadership opportunities for its students.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Model United Nations is offered through the School's Excellence programs, developing research, public speaking, debating, writing, critical thinking, and leadership. Mad Science provides science enrichment through hands-on activities. Experiential Field Trips and a range of clubs support academic growth and collaborative problem solving. The school maintains a broad clubs program that enhances intellectual engagement beyond the classroom.

Arts & Creative
Band and Choir, Dramatic Productions, Art Club, and Photography Club are offered. Improv Club is also available. The arts program supports creative expression through active participation in performances and productions.

Cultural & Language
French Club is offered as part of the school's cultural and language activities.

Social & Hobbies
After-school clubs include Photography Club and Improv Club. These clubs provide opportunities to pursue personal interests and socialize with peers.

Community & Service
The Bucket Filler program promotes kindness and a positive community culture. House League organizes mixed-age house groups for collaborative projects and friendly competition.

Leadership & Professional
Student Council provides student leadership opportunities. Model United Nations is offered as part of leadership and global affairs programs.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Athletic programs include competitive teams for U9 through Varsity across a variety of sports. The campus facilities include a gymnasium, a 25-foot indoor pool, and a grass soccer field, supporting physical activity and wellness.
Languages

Language Provision
Arabic is compulsory from Kindergarten onward, with Arabic 1 and Arabic 2 offered. French is offered at the secondary level. The curriculum follows the Alberta Program of Studies in coordination with the UAE Ministry of Education.
Reputation

Awards
Outstanding rating by ADEK (Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge) in the latest inspection.

Accreditations
Tier-1 Alberta Accredited International School. Alberta Education accreditation supports the Alberta Program of Studies as the curricular framework.
Admissions

Admissions
1. Begin online enrollment. The admissions portal handles new student registration with step-by-step instructions at each stage. Registration for the new academic year opens in January, and applications are welcome throughout the school year. 2. Submit documents. Gather the required documents; all documents must be in English or Arabic, and a UAE translation is required if not. For Grades 1 and above, a Transfer Certificate or School Leaving Certificate is required and must be English or Arabic and attested. The online application must be completed, and the Admissions Application is not an offer of admission. 3. Assessment and supports. The school assesses each applicant's English ability and may require an assessment. The school provides Student Support Services, including Speech Therapy, Literacy Support, and Counselling. 4. Offer and acceptance. If a space is available, a Letter of Acceptance is issued and the Registration Stage begins. The school reserves the right to place your child in the grade level considered appropriate based on age, ability, and Ministry of Education guidelines. If accepted, you agree to the rules in the Parent/Student Handbook. 5. Enrollment and start. Upon acceptance, documents, and payment, a place is secured. The school communicates through the online admissions system and finalizes enrollment accordingly. 6. Ongoing communications. All communications regarding the application are conducted via the online admissions enrollment system, with updates provided as spaces become available or decisions are made.

Waitlist
Due to the high volume of applications, the admissions process may involve a waiting list. If a space becomes available for your child, CIS will contact families with next steps via the admissions system. The school communicates update information through the online enrollment platform to keep families informed about status and opportunities.
School Events
The school has not added events
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