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The Australian School of Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees AED 21,383 - 38,034
Ages 4 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 608
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Australian Curriculum
Typical class size 11
Introduction

The Australian School of Abu Dhabi (ASAD) is a co-educational IB World School in Abu Dhabi that delivers the IB Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma Programmes (and the IB Career-related Programme) alongside elements of the Australian Curriculum, serving Kindergarten to Grade 12 (ages c.4–18). The medium of instruction is English; Arabic language lessons begin in Kindergarten and Ministry-mandated subjects (Arabic, UAE Social Studies and Islamic Education for eligible students) are taught in Arabic, with French and advanced Arabic offered as elective language options in the MYP and DP. The school publishes a range of notable facilities including a library, a 27-m indoor heated swimming pool with a shallow training pool, an indoor gym, a full-size football/soccer field, a 620-seat auditorium, a masjid/prayer room, cafeteria services and organised school transport. ASAD's published policies emphasise inclusion, a formal EAL provision for multilingual learners, and the integration of UAE national identity within its IB-based curriculum.

Street 15, Opposite The Civil Defence Building, Zayed City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The Essentials

The Australian School of Abu Dhabi has 608 pupils, typical class sizes of 11, instruction in English.

Location
The Australian School of Abu Dhabi is located in Shakhbout City, Khalifa City B, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The campus sits at the corner of Streets 11 and 32, near the Civil Defence facility. A dedicated school bus network serves a wide catchment across Abu Dhabi, providing regular transport for students. The school's postal address is PO Box 36044.

Stages
ASAD offers the International Baccalaureate from Early Years (PYP) through the Diploma Programme (DP), i.e., from Kindergarten to Year 12. The curriculum is integrated with the Australian Curriculum (ACARA).

Type
ASAD is co-educational and operates as a day school; there are no boarding facilities.

Pupil Nationality Mix
ASAD serves a diverse student body representing multiple nationalities. Third‑party listings estimate around 500 students across about 45 nationalities. The school community is described as multicultural and globally oriented.

Additional learning support
ASAD follows an inclusive education approach, with dedicated supports for Students of Determination, English Language Learners, and students from diverse backgrounds. Support is provided within the classroom with accommodations, and additional services may be available as part of the school's inclusive framework.

Country affiliation
The school aligns with the Australian Curriculum (ACARA), reflecting its Australian educational identity while operating in the United Arab Emirates.

Religious affiliation
There is no formal religious affiliation stated for the school. A Masjid (prayer room) is available on site for Muslim students, and UAE Islamic Studies is delivered in line with national guidelines where applicable.

School day structure
The typical school day runs from about 8:00 to 16:00 Sunday to Thursday, with a shorter day on Fridays (roughly 9:00 to 12:00).

Bus service
ASAD provides a transport service that complies with UAE safety requirements. Buses operate daily with a driver and assistant, and transportation costs 3,850 AED per child per academic year. Destinations include Khalifa City B (Shakhbout City), Baniyas, Gabat, Officer City, and other Abu Dhabi areas. Parents arrange the service through the Front Office.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
ASAD does not offer boarding; it operates as a day school. A school transport service is available with routes across Abu Dhabi and a transport fee of 3850 AED per child per year. There are no on-site boarding facilities or dormitories.

Uniform Requirement
The uniform must be worn during school hours. Items include blazer (optional for both boys and girls), shirt, trousers or skirt, tie, jumper, and jacket (winter months); PE uniform and swimming gear are separate. All uniform items, except footwear and swimming items, are purchased from the ASAD Uniform store on campus.

Food Options
The School provides breakfast and lunch; a paid School Meal Program is available to KG1–Year 12 on request with an annual fee. Meals include pasta, rice, meat dishes, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables; snacks for Year 5 and below are sent to classrooms, while older students eat in the cafeteria. The school accommodates special dietary requirements when advised.
Fees

Annual tuition at The Australian School of Abu Dhabi ranges from AED 21,383 to AED 38,034 for 2026/27.

Application / Registration fees
- A non‑refundable registration fee must be paid to secure an offered place; payment of this registration fee is required at enrolment. Re‑registration for returning students also requires a re‑registration fee to secure a seat for the following academic year; that re‑registration fee is deducted from the total tuition as per school policy.

Tuition fees (annual and per term)
- KG1 — Annual: AED 15,600. Per term (three equal instalments): AED 5,200.
- KG2 — Annual: AED 15,600. Per term: AED 5,200.
- Grade 1 — Annual: AED 19,270. Per term: AED 6,423.33.
- Grade 2 — Annual: AED 19,270. Per term: AED 6,423.33.
- Grade 3 — Annual: AED 20,800. Per term: AED 6,933.33.
- Grade 4 — Annual: AED 20,920. Per term: AED 6,973.33.
- Grade 5 — Annual: AED 22,310. Per term: AED 7,436.67.
- Grade 6 — Annual: AED 25,320. Per term: AED 8,440.00.
- Grade 7 — Annual: AED 27,340. Per term: AED 9,113.33.
- Grade 8 — Annual: AED 27,340. Per term: AED 9,113.33.
- Grade 9 — Annual: AED 30,850. Per term: AED 10,283.33.
- Grade 10 — Annual: AED 30,770. Per term: AED 10,256.67.
- Grade 11 — Annual: AED 37,030. Per term: AED 12,343.33.
- Grade 12 — Annual: AED 37,030. Per term: AED 12,343.33.
(Per‑term figures are the annual tuition divided into three equal instalments, in accordance with the school's fee schedule.)

Transport, uniform and books (additional annual charges)
- Transport: AED 4,428 per year (per the published fee schedule). Transport is charged separately to tuition.
- Uniform: AED 500 for KG–Grade 5; AED 700 for Grade 6 and above. These are listed as separate annual uniform charges.
- Books: AED 1,500 for KG–Grade 5; AED 2,500 for Grade 6 and above. These are listed as separate annual book charges.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Annual tuition is payable in three equal instalments: 1st instalment payable in August (before the academic year begins), 2nd instalment payable in December, and 3rd instalment payable in March. Fees must be paid according to this schedule to maintain enrolment.
- Families who pay the full annual tuition in a single payment on or before 15 September receive a 5% early‑payment discount.
- Re‑registration must be completed by February each year to retain a place; withdrawal requires submission of the school's withdrawal form by March. Transfer certificates and related documents are issued only after outstanding fees are cleared.

Boarding fees
- The school operates as a day school; no boarding provision or boarding fees apply.

Other costs and typical additional charges
- The published fee schedule itemises tuition, transport, uniform and book charges (amounts shown above). Other occasional or programme‑specific charges (for example external exam fees, activity fees or optional trips) may apply; these are not included in the annual tuition figures listed above. Any such additional charges are managed in accordance with school policy and regulatory rules.

Refunds and withdrawal
- Registration fees (paid to secure a seat) are non‑refundable. Refunds of tuition, where applicable, are processed in line with ADEK (Abu Dhabi regulator) refund rules and the school's published admissions and fees policy; parents must submit the formal withdrawal form and settle outstanding fees before transfer documents or refunds are processed.

Consequences of non‑payment
- The school follows ADEK‑aligned procedures for overdue fees: written reminders are issued (three notices), and unresolved non‑payment may lead to suspension of the student and withholding of semester reports until accounts are settled; families in financial difficulty may discuss customised payment plans with the school.

Fee payment options and receipts
- Accepted payment methods include credit/debit card, cheques and bank transfer. Payment confirmations and receipts are issued upon request.

(End of fees overview.)
Academics

The Australian School of Abu Dhabi teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Australian Curriculum for students aged 4 to 18.

Curriculum
ASAD is a full IB World School delivering the International Baccalaureate across the full span of schooling—from early years (PYP) through high school graduation (DP)—and this is integrated with the Australian Curriculum (ACARA). The language of instruction is English for most subjects; Arabic language begins in the kindergarten, Islamic Studies begins in Year 1, and French and advanced Arabic are offered as electives in the secondary years to meet Ministry requirements. The Middle Years Programme (grades 6–10) covers eight subject groups: Language and Literature (Arabic and English), Language Acquisition (English and French), Mathematics, Integrated Sciences, Individuals and Societies, Physical Education, Design, and Arts, with interdisciplinary units and a mandatory personal project. The Diploma Programme (grades 11–12) comprises a DP core (Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, Creativity, Activity, and Service) and six subject groups (Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, and the Arts), with courses offered at Higher Level and Standard Level. ASAD emphasises inclusive education and UAE-contextual learning, ensuring curriculum design aligns with inclusion principles and local requirements.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social and emotional learning (SEL) is embedded in ASAD's Wellbeing Strategy, which aligns with the IB Learner Profile and ADEK Wellbeing Policy. SEL topics are integrated into the formal curriculum across the PYP, MYP, and DP, with advisory sessions and mentoring to support personal development. A comprehensive counselling program provides individual and group counselling, and a school social worker is available to support students' emotional and social needs. Anti-bullying campaigns, restorative practices, and initiatives that promote respectful relationships and peer connection are part of everyday school life. A Wellbeing Committee, led by the Head of Student Management and Wellbeing, oversees the strategy and uses annual wellbeing surveys to monitor impact.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
ASAD describes inclusion as a guiding principle rather than a separate program and does not present itself as a specialist SEN institution. Key learner groups supported include Students of Determination, Gifted and Talented, English Language Learners, Students from Diverse Backgrounds, Students with Temporary Challenges, and Students with Learning Differences. Early Intervention, Learning Support Plans, and Multi-Tiered Support provide tailored assistance, with collaboration among parents, specialists, and the child. The school employs inclusion specialists and coordinators to support implementation and staff development; the Head of Inclusion coordinates provision for additional learning needs and works with teachers and families to design individualized support. Inclusion is integrated into all aspects of school life, not as a standalone program.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The language of instruction at ASAD is English, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) provision supports students whose mother tongue is not English to access the curriculum and thrive academically and socially. ASAD uses the Bell Foundation EAL Assessment Framework to identify language needs, set learning goals, and monitor progress. The EAL provision is led by an EAL Coordinator and supported by EAL teachers and support staff who implement pull-out, push-in, and co-teaching models. A tiered model (Universal, Targeted, Intensive) provides escalating levels of support in line with ADEK requirements. Progress and exit criteria for the EAL programme are tracked and communicated with families.

Mental Wellbeing
ASAD implements a holistic mental and emotional wellbeing approach within its Wellbeing Strategy, aligning with ADEK guidelines. A comprehensive counselling program offers individual and group counselling and supports staff and families as needed. Staff receive ongoing professional development on mental health awareness, early identification, and inclusive wellbeing practices. SEL and wellbeing are integrated into the formal curriculum, advisory sessions, mentoring, and student leadership activities to build resilience and self-regulation. The Wellbeing Strategy is monitored through annual wellbeing surveys and a dedicated Wellbeing Committee that oversees implementation and improvement.

Safeguarding
ASAD maintains a Student Protection Policy that aligns with UAE Wadeema laws and ADEK safeguarding requirements and emphasizes the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of all students. The policy defines roles and responsibilities, including the Principal, a Child Protection Coordinator (CPC), staff, and parents, and requires mandated reporting of concerns to appropriate authorities. A designated CPC is the key contact for safeguarding matters, coordinates responses, and liaises with families and authorities. The policy covers types of maltreatment, reporting procedures, data confidentiality, training, and awareness initiatives to ensure child protection is embedded in school life. The policy also provides key contacts, confidential reporting forms, and guidance on staff and volunteer vetting.
Parent Experience

History
ASAD opened in 2006 in Abu Dhabi as a private, co‑educational school. It is English‑medium with Arabic language and Islamic studies integrated for local students. ASAD offers the International Baccalaureate continuum from early years (PYP) to Diploma Programme (DP), integrated with the Australian Curriculum (ACARA). The Diploma Programme was authorised by the IB in 2009. The school is led by Director Adel Salman and Principal Waleed Bamirny, and it emphasizes inclusive education while respecting UAE values and local culture.

Community
ASAD's community includes students from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The school participates in extracurricular activities, the Abu Dhabi Schools Champion competition, and hosts events such as the Global Day festival. The school highlights inclusion and UAE heritage as core values guiding its programs. The ASAD learner framework includes a focus on connecting with the community as a central element of learning.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
ASAD does not publish a named Parent‑Teacher Association (PTA) in public materials. Parent involvement is structured through a Parent Engagement Policy that outlines how families participate in school life (including collaboration with the school on learning goals and well‑being). Parents are invited to participate in Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings, receive regular progress updates, and attend workshops as part of the inclusion and learning‑support process. The school's inclusion framework emphasizes partnership with families to support students' learning and well‑being. Family engagement also occurs through school events that involve parents and the wider community, such as Global Day and participation in Abu Dhabi Schools Champion activities. For inquiries about formal parent groups, families can contact the school administration.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
ASAD's campus includes a library, an indoor heated 27-metre swimming pool with a training pool for younger students, a fully air-conditioned gym, a 620-seat auditorium and a soccer field. An on-site masjid is available for prayer, and the cafeteria operates a breakfast and lunch meal program. The auditorium seats 620 and supports assemblies, concerts, theatre productions and conferences, with a control room for lighting and sound. The library provides IB resources and supports information literacy in a safe, creative environment. The school also provides a bus service with routes across the catchment area.

Sports Facilities
Key sports facilities include an indoor, heated 27-metre swimming pool with a training pool for younger students (depth 2.50 m and 0.65 m respectively), a fully air-conditioned gym for PE across all year groups, and a soccer field used for practice and competitions.

Extra Curricular Facilities
An auditorium for performing arts and events supports choir and orchestra performances, theatre productions and large school gatherings.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Arts & Creative
The auditorium hosts theatre productions as well as orchestral and choir performances. The auditorium is used for assemblies, large meetings, and other arts events. The library provides IB resources and supports literacy and information literacy with creative inquiry in mind. Arts subjects include Drama, Music, and Visual Arts within the Diploma Programme, supporting artistic development.

Social & Hobbies
Basketball is part of school life, with a Bronze Medal at the Abu Dhabi School Champions. The soccer field is used for practice, competitions, and after‑school activities. The indoor gym offers fitness programs for KG1 to Year 12, including movement activities for younger students and supervised weights for older students. There is an indoor, heated 27‑metre swimming pool with a training pool for younger students.

Leadership & Professional
Student voice and agency are emphasised as core ASAD practice; students participate in goal‑setting, provide feedback on learning, and develop self‑advocacy. The school also participates in extracurricular activities and competitions, including the Abu Dhabi Schools Champion program and other events.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
The school provides an indoor, fully equipped gym for physical education from KG1 to Year 12. A 27‑metre indoor heated swimming pool and a soccer field support broad fitness and outdoor activities. Gym classes emphasize teamwork, leadership, and physical wellbeing, while swimming and other athletics promote lifelong healthy habits. The basketball program and school sports events contribute to student wellbeing through active participation.
Languages

Language Provision
English is the primary language of instruction across all subjects. Arabic is taught in ministry-m mandated subjects for UAE national students, while non-Arabic speakers have these subjects taught in English or with Arabic support. The school offers Arabic and French as language options and supports mother tongue development. Multilingualism is emphasised across the curriculum.

Bilingual Teaching
ASAD uses English as the language of instruction with Arabic taught as a required subject for UAE national students. For non-Arabic speakers, these subjects are taught in English or with additional Arabic support. French is offered as part of the language programme, and mother tongue development is encouraged as part of multilingual learning across the IB continuum.
Reputation

Awards
UAE National Identity recognition (Good rating for UAE Heritage)

Accreditations
IB World School; ADEK/IRTIQAA rating: Good
Admissions

Admissions
1. Submit the Enrolment Form and the required documentation. All applicants must complete an Enrolment Form, and it is available on the public admissions page. Prepare and submit passport/visa copies for student and parents, birth certificate, immunisation records, two years of the most recent school reports, a transfer certificate, and any additional educational reports or assessments (including IEPs or other documents if applicable). Admission decisions are made in line with IB principles and ADEK regulations, and enrolment is subject to availability.

Waitlist
2) If a year group is fully subscribed, applicants are placed on a waiting list. The waiting list is refreshed every term at a minimum, and applicants are notified as seats become available. When places open, offers are made in accordance with the school's priority criteria and the applicant's documentation and readiness. Priority enrolment criteria include siblings of current students, students transferring from other IB schools, children of staff, and returning ASAD students, but all applicants must meet the school's admissions criteria and placement remains subject to availability.
School Events
The school has not added events
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