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Sharjah American International School Umm Al Quwain

United Arab Emirates, Umm Al Quwain

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, Arabic
Fees AED 17,545 - 32,285
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 1500
Type Co-educational
Opened 2014
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum American Curriculum
Taught languages Arabic, English, French
Typical class size 22
Strengths Sport, STEM, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction

Sharjah American International School Umm Al Quwain provides an American curriculum aligned with California State Standards from Kindergarten through Grade 12. The campus features dedicated science laboratories, information technology labs, art rooms, an outdoor sports field, and an on-site medical clinic. Students are prepared for high school graduation with options to take standardized assessments including MAP (Measures of Academic Progress), SAT, and TOEFL. The school emphasizes English language instruction alongside the mandatory United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education curricula for Arabic Language, Islamic Studies, and Moral Education. A distinctive offering at this campus is its structured college guidance framework, which systematically assists high school students in selecting and applying to regional and international higher education institutions. The school provides daily bus transportation across Umm Al Quwain and neighboring emirates to accommodate commuting families. Additionally, the school hosts annual events such as International Day and Science Fairs to foster peer collaboration.

UAQ - Salama 2, P.O. Box 1202, Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates

The Essentials

Sharjah American International School Umm Al Quwain has 1,500 pupils, typical class sizes of 22, instruction in English, Arabic.

Location

The school is located in Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates, at UAQ - Salama 2 I P.O. Box 1202. It is part of the Sharjah American International School group with campuses in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain. The school is a private international school.

Stages

Kindergarten; Elementary School; Middle School; High School.

Type

Private international school

Additional learning support

A comprehensive learning support program targets literacy and numeracy, with progress monitored and increasingly intensive multi‑tiered interventions; learning support teachers focus on the social, emotional, and academic well‑being of students and tailor instruction to individual needs.

Country affiliation

United Arab Emirates

School day structure

School day begins at 8:00 with an eight‑period timetable; the schedule ends around 2:10, depending on grade level.

Bus service

The school operates a number of buses with door-to-door service, in the morning and afternoon; buses are used for excursions and sports events; bus places must be prepaid and arranged through the school office; riders follow the same school rules while on the bus.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement

Full school uniform must be worn to and from school, with appropriate clothing required for Physical Education. A note from parents is required if any item of uniform is missing; jewelry is limited to one pair of plain stud earrings for girls; makeup is not permitted; hair must be neat and not dyed in unnatural colors.

Food Options

Food canteen: Students are encouraged to bring their food from home. Canteen staff distribute food in classes, and sharing food is not allowed.

Governance and Ownership

SAIS UAQ is part of the Sharjah American International School group with campuses in Sharjah, Dubai, Umm Al Quwain and Abu Dhabi. The schools are owned by two directors, Dr. Fawaz and Dr. Aisha, and are affiliated with the Ministry of Education; a Senior Management Committee member at each school oversees day-to-day running.
Fees

Annual tuition at Sharjah American International School Umm Al Quwain ranges from AED 17,545 to AED 32,285 for 2026/27.

Application / Registration fees

- A registration/admissions fee is charged at the time of joining; this registration fee is deducted from the tuition fees and is non‑refundable and non‑transferable.

Annual tuition, books, uniform and total (per grade) — 2025–2026 published schedule

- KG1: Tuition AED 16,170; Books AED 935; Uniform AED 440; Total AED 17,545.
- KG2: Tuition AED 16,170; Books AED 935; Uniform AED 440; Total AED 17,545.
- Grade 1: Tuition AED 18,480; Books AED 1,870; Uniform AED 440; Total AED 20,790.
- Grade 2: Tuition AED 18,480; Books AED 1,870; Uniform AED 440; Total AED 20,790.
- Grade 3: Tuition AED 18,480; Books AED 1,870; Uniform AED 440; Total AED 20,790.
- Grade 4: Tuition AED 20,790; Books AED 2,090; Uniform AED 440; Total AED 23,320.
- Grade 5: Tuition AED 20,790; Books AED 2,090; Uniform AED 440; Total AED 23,320.
- Grade 6: Tuition AED 20,790; Books AED 2,090; Uniform AED 660; Total AED 23,540.
- Grade 7: Tuition AED 24,255; Books AED 2,530; Uniform AED 660; Total AED 27,445.
- Grade 8: Tuition AED 24,255; Books AED 2,530; Uniform AED 660; Total AED 27,445.
- Grade 9: Tuition AED 24,255; Books AED 2,530; Uniform AED 660; Total AED 27,445.
- Grade 10: Tuition AED 28,875; Books AED 2,750; Uniform AED 660; Total AED 32,285.
- Grade 11: Tuition AED 28,875; Books AED 2,750; Uniform AED 660; Total AED 32,285.
- Grade 12: Tuition AED 28,875; Books AED 2,750; Uniform AED 660; Total AED 32,285.

Per‑term example (3 equal instalments) — computed from published annual figures

- The following per‑term amounts are the published annual figures divided into three equal instalments (presented as an example of a 3‑instalment plan). Actual per‑term billing and due dates follow the school's payment plan and may differ.

- KG1 / KG2: Tuition per term AED 5,390; Total (including books & uniform) per term AED 5,848.
- Grade 1–3: Tuition per term AED 6,160; Total per term AED 6,930.
- Grade 4–6: Tuition per term AED 6,930; Total per term — Grade 4/5 AED 7,773; Grade 6 AED 7,847.
- Grade 7–9: Tuition per term AED 8,085; Total per term AED 9,148.
- Grade 10–12: Tuition per term AED 9,625; Total per term AED 10,762.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- All tuition fees must be settled on or before the due date as defined by the school's payment plan. Early payment discount is applied for full payment before the start of Term One. Post‑dated cheques (PDCs) are accepted for instalment plans; PDC amounts are not debited until the cheque is credited into the school's bank account. A dishonoured cheque will incur a AED 500 charge. The registration fee is deducted from tuition on joining and is non‑refundable.

- Refunds on withdrawal follow the published Ministry‑aligned rules: parents/guardians must notify the school 30 days in advance and submit a refund request. If withdrawal occurs prior to the academic year start, the balance of the first term fee paid will be refunded (registration and admissions fees remain non‑refundable). If withdrawal happens during a term, the school applies specific charges depending on the length of attendance in that term (examples include charging one month's fee if attendance was two weeks or less in the term). The school states the value of one month's fee should be estimated by the value of the total school fees for ten months.

Transportation (optional) — annual charges

- Salama / Ramla: Two‑way AED 3,000; One‑way AED 2,000.
- Umm Al Quwain City (clock round / fish round / King Faysal / Malah / Al Ras / Carrefour / Al Shabia / Algadeeda / Al Hamra): Two‑way AED 3,000; One‑way AED 2,000.
- Al Hamria / Al Dalaj / Al Rafaa: Two‑way AED 3,500; One‑way AED 2,250.
- Ajman routes: Two‑way AED 3,500; One‑way AED 2,250.
- Sharjah routes: Two‑way AED 4,000; One‑way AED 2,500.

Boarding

- The campus operates as a day school and no boarding facility or boarding fees are listed. Transport is provided as an optional paid service.

Other costs and incidental charges

- Book fees and uniform costs are published per grade and shown in the annual fee schedule (listed above). Damage to school property caused by a student will be billed to the parent/guardian. Returned cheques and other bank charges are applied as described in the payment terms. Additional incidental charges (examination fees, activity fees, medical fees, or other sundry charges) may apply though not all are itemised in the published fee table.

Refunds and withdrawal charges (summary)

- Registration/admissions fees: non‑refundable and non‑transferable.
- Withdrawal prior to academic year start: balance of the first term fee paid refundable (registration/admissions fees retained).
- Withdrawal during a term: charges depend on attendance in that term (the school applies a graded scale—examples include retaining one month's fee for very short attendance and charging the full term if attendance exceeds one month). One‑month fee is to be estimated by the total school fees for ten months.

Fee payment options (published)

- Post‑dated cheques (PDCs) are accepted for instalments and are processed when credited to the school's account; dishonoured cheques incur AED 500. Early full payment prior to Term One attracts a discount. No specific published listing of credit‑card or bank‑transfer details is provided on the published fee schedule; enquiries for alternative payment channels are handled through the school's accounts/admissions contacts.

Administrative contact for fee matters

- For admissions and fee queries the school lists the UAQ campus contact: saisq@saisuaq.com and +971 6 766 5553.

(Notes: annual figures above are taken from the school's published 2025–2026 fee schedule. The per‑term figures shown are computed examples dividing annual figures into three equal instalments for reference; actual instalment amounts and due dates follow the school's payment plan.)
Academics

Sharjah American International School Umm Al Quwain teaches American Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum

The school provides an English- and Arabic-language curriculum across the Kindergarten, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School. The Kindergarten curriculum solidifies literacy and numeracy in both English and Arabic, with science and mathematics, and uses technology such as Interactive Boards and iPads; learning is guided by imaginative, guided play to develop cognitive, social, emotional, and physical skills. The Elementary School focuses on the fundamentals of reading, writing, math, and science, and uses interactive learning and technology to foster curiosity and self-directed learning. The Middle School covers all subject requirements of the Ministry of Education with additional enrichments, and offers a broad program including academic, athletic, community service and other extracurricular activities, with technology and varied teaching strategies. The High School provides a challenging, well-rounded academic core with a personalized approach and individualized college counselling to help students plan their futures.

Higher Education Progression

The school offers individualized college counselling sessions with students and their parents to help each student choose the best university that meets his or her interests and needs, facilitating a smooth transition to higher education.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Learning support teachers are specialists in the well-being of children on a social, emotional, and academic level, and they provide high-quality instruction and interventions tailored to reflect students' individual interests, styles, and needs. The program addresses the well-being of students through a comprehensive learning support program that targets literacy and numeracy and uses increasingly intensive multi-tiered interventions.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The SAIS UAQ learning support program targets literacy and numeracy, monitors students' progress, and provides increasingly intensive multi-tiered interventions for students identified as at-risk or requiring special attention.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school has an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program and support lessons.

Mental Wellbeing

Learning support teachers are specialists in the well-being of children on a social, emotional, and academic level.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding Policy exists as part of the SAIS UAQ Students and Parents Handbook AY 2021-22.
Parent Experience

History

The Sharjah branch of SAIS was opened in 1997. The Dubai branch opened in 2005. Umm Al Quwain branch opened in 2014. Abu Dhabi Branch opened in 2015. The Sharjah American International School group is owned by two directors, Dr. Fawaz and Dr. Aisha, who have long and distinguished careers in education in the UAE.

Community

Community Engagement is an essential aspect of SAIS UAQ's Vision and Mission, linking the SAIS community with meaningful social experiences. Students are encouraged to give back to society through sharing their talents, exploring their interests, responding to community needs, and becoming active citizens. The SAIS Student Council coordinates student activities, fosters good citizenship and leadership, and serves as a forum for student concerns and ideas, including charity fundraisers. SAIS UAQ is described as a collaborative, supportive, diverse, and ever-growing community, more like a family than a school.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

Interactive Boards are installed in all classrooms, and students in Kindergarten through Elementary use iPads and laptops. E-Books and FrogOS are used as online learning tools with specialized apps to supplement classroom instruction. Teachers receive ongoing professional development in technology to support learning. The gymnasium is a shared facility used for physical education and events. A playground provides outdoor space for breaks and recreation. Library sessions are conducted in classrooms and e-books are used to support learning.

Sports Facilities

The gymnasium is a shared facility on the SAIS UAQ campus. The PE department runs extra-curricular sports programs including Soccer, Basketball, Swimming, and Gymnastics. Playground spaces are available for breaks and activities. Swimming is offered as an extracurricular sport. Programs take place after the school day.

Academic Facilities

Interactive Boards are installed in classrooms from Kindergarten onward, and students use iPads and laptops. In Elementary, learning uses Interactive Boards, books, and iPad applications to enhance skills. Middle School uses technology and various teaching strategies to create the best learning environment. Distance Learning is supported through Microsoft Teams for remedial classes and other activities. Library sessions are conducted in classrooms and e-books are used.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Extra-curricular sports programs include Soccer, Basketball, Swimming, and Gymnastics. After-school clubs include Chess Club, Photography Club, Speech Club, Robotics Club, and Quran Club. A wide variety of academic, athletic, and community service activities are available to students. Academic activities include reading programs, science fairs, academic field trips and scientific research projects.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

After School Clubs are offered, including Chess Club, Photography Club, Speech Club, Robotics Club and Quran Club. These clubs provide opportunities to engage in activities beyond regular class time.

Arts & Creative

Photography Club is included among After School Clubs, offering a venue for visual arts and creative expression.

Cultural & Language

Speech Club supports language development and public speaking; Quran Club engages students in Islamic studies and cultural literacy.

Social & Hobbies

The PE department runs extra-curricular sports programs after school, including Soccer, Basketball, Swimming and Gymnastics. These activities promote social interaction and teamwork.

Leadership & Professional

Extracurricular activities foster leadership and confidence, with clubs providing opportunities for teamwork and initiative.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Sports programs and after-school activities support physical activity, wellness and a sense of school belonging.
Languages

Language Provision

English and Arabic are taught at SAIS UAQ. Arabic language instruction is organized through the Arabic Department and is part of the curriculum.

Bilingual Teaching

The Kindergarten is bilingual in English and Arabic. English Department and Arabic Department are offered as core academic departments. An Arabic Language Department exists at SAIS UAQ.
Admissions

Admissions

1. Start the admission process with an online application via the Apply Online portal. The Admission Process page provides a link labeled Apply Online for submissions.

2. Submit the documents listed on the page: six recent colored passport-size photographs; a copy of birth certificate; a copy of vaccination card; a copy of Family Book (UAE nationals only); a copy of student's and father's passports with valid residence visa; a copy of student's and father's Emirates IDs; the original Emirates ID is required for KG students and first graders who have never joined government or private kindergarten; the original Continuous Studying Certificate for the current year with SIS number; the original Transfer Certificate from the previous school attested by the Ministry of Education; a copy of the report card; a certificate of Good Conduct for boys from Grade 6 to Grade 11; and if the student is transferring from a school located outside the UAE, the report card and transfer certificate should be attested by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country.

3.
School Events
The school has not added events