Abu Dhabi has emerged as a hub for globally recognised education, with several schools offering the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. Whether you’re a parent seeking a future-focused curriculum or a student aiming to develop critical thinking and international-mindedness, IB schools in Abu Dhabi are a strong choice. They offer a balance of academic performance, co-curricular activities, and excellent facilities. Scroll down to find out more about these schools.
- The British International School
- Bateen World Academy
- The American International School in Abu Dhabi
- Gems World Academy
- International Community Schools
- Raha International School
- Abu Dhabi International School (AIS)
- Gems American Academy
- Al Najah Private School
- Australian School of Abu Dhabi
- FAQs
Best IB Schools in Abu Dhabi
Living in Abu Dhabi and searching for the best IB schools for your child? Here’s a guide to some of the top-rated institutions offering world-class education in the emirate.
1. The British International School
Located in the centre of Abu Dhabi, the British International School provides a combination of international and British curricula that lead to the IB Diploma. It excels in academic outcomes and comprehensive development, inspiring students to think outside the box.
The school has modern classrooms, labs, performance spaces, and a vast library. Partnerships between the school and international institutions such as MIT, Juilliard, and UNICEF further enhance the learning experience.
It allows students to engage actively in sports, performing arts, innovation clubs, and social causes, emerging as balanced, socially conscious leaders.
Location
Behind Abu Dhabi University, Zayed City
Contact Information
+971-2-510-0100
Rating
Outstanding
Grades
Year 12, Year 13
School Fees
AED 54,890 to AED 74,980
2. Bateen World Academy
Located in Al Bateen, Bateen World Academy is part of the Aldar Academies network and provides a seamless IB curriculum. The school blends academic challenge with individualised learning, emphasising inquiry-based teaching to cultivate critical and independent thinkers.
Bateen has science laboratories, art rooms, and sports facilities such as a multi-purpose gymnasium and swimming pool. It also offers co-curricular activities from performing arts to environmental clubs and robotics, fostering intellectual growth and global awareness.
Location
Al Najah Street, Al Manhal
Contact Information
+971-2-813-2000
Rating
Outstanding
Grades
Preschool to Year 13
School Fees
AED 54,000 to AED 73,380
3. The American International School in Abu Dhabi (AISA)
AISA, founded in 1995, was the first Abu Dhabi school to provide both the IB Diploma and Primary Years Programme. Situated in the city’s Muroor district, it offers a mixed American and IB curriculum to a culturally diverse student population from more than 75 nations.
The American International School in Abu Dhabi follows a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) model, allowing students to use their laptops and iPads for learning. This approach integrates digital tools into everyday lessons, helping students develop strong digital literacy skills.
The school also boasts a library with over 20,000 resources, and students excel in a range of co-curricular activities such as arts, sports, and leadership clubs.
Location
29th Street, Airport Road, opposite Pepsi-Cola Plant
Contact Information
+971-2-444-4333
Rating
Very Good
Grades
Grade 11, Grade 12
School Fees
AED 32,950 to AED 59,900
4. Gems World Academy
GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi, situated on Al Reem Island, blends the English National Curriculum with the IB framework, promoting a customised learning experience. With a focus on High-Performance Learning, students are groomed to become adaptive, resilient, and broad-minded.
Facilities at the school comprise a six-court sports hall, a football pitch, innovation labs, and a technology-integrated makerspace. The academy also has a rich extracurricular program in sports, STEM, and creative arts that enables students to lead and work confidently on global platforms.
Location
Al Reem Island
Contact Information
+971-2-659-5959
Rating
Very Good
Grades
Year 12, Year 13
School Fees
AED 58,000 to AED 72,000
5. International Community Schools (ICS)
ICS, one of Abu Dhabi’s fastest-growing school groups, delivers the IB programme with an emphasis on moral education, innovation, and creativity. The school’s teaching philosophy integrates global perspectives with values-based learning, ensuring well-rounded student development.
The school has well-furnished science laboratories, libraries and sports complexes, facilitating academic and individual development. Co-curricular activities involve drama, community service, science fairs and competitive sports, allowing students to discover their talents and contribute to society.
Location
- Al Najda Street, Al Danah
- Al Mushrif Area
- Al Khalidiya
Contact Information
+971-60-055-5222
Rating
Very Good
Grades
Grade 11, Grade 12
School Fees
AED 23,760 to AED 51,980
6. Raha International School
Part of the prestigious Taaleem group, Raha International School offers all three IB programs: Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). As one of the popular schools in Khalifa City A, it is known for its close-knit community and well-rounded approach, encouraging a love for learning and strong academic skills.
Raha offers excellent facilities, including creative arts studios, science labs, and spacious sports areas. The school also provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, such as arts, sports, languages, and cultural clubs, helping students develop academically and personally.
Location
Al Mutafani Street, Khalifa City, Sector 13
Contact Information
+971-2-550-5271
Rating
Very Good
Grades
KG 1 to Grade 12
School Fees
AED 40,880 to AED 64,340
7. Abu Dhabi International School (AIS)
Abu Dhabi International School provides a dual American and IB programme, balancing cost with quality. With over 30 years of experience, the school focuses on academic excellence, empathy, and independent thinking.
Its facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms, science and computer laboratories, libraries, and creative arts areas. Students engage in activities such as debate, sports competitions, visual arts, and service-learning programs, developing leadership, creativity, and community spirit from a young age.
Location
Near Al Ain University, Mohammed Bin Zayed City
Contact Information
+971-2-205-7999
Rating
Very Good
Grades
KG-1 to Grade 12
Annual Fees
AED 17,080 to AED 36,600
8. Gems American Academy
Based in Khalifa City, GEMS American Academy provides a seamless IB learning journey with a focus on holistic growth. From robotics in the Makerspace to cross-curricular science labs, all areas of the school are engineered to foster innovation, making it one of the best schools in Abu Dhabi.
It consists of two indoor swimming pools, an auditorium, dance studios, several sports courts, and two libraries with more than 25,000 books. Co-curriculars include performing arts, student organisations, and global citizenship programs that enable students a chance to find and nurture their interests.
Location
16th Street, Madinat Khalifa A
Contact Information
+971-2-201-9555
Rating
Very Good
Grades
Grade 11, Grade 12
School Fees
AED 56,370 to AED 78,540
9. Al Najah Private School
Founded in 1987, Al Najah Private School in MBZ City provides the IB Diploma and the British Curriculum, with challenging academics and values-based education. The emphasis of the school on intercultural respect and critical thinking aligns with the IB mission.
It has specially designed creative rooms and sports complexes. Its CAS programme stands out, providing students with enriching experiences in creativity, activity, and service. From arts and fitness to social action and leadership, students build confidence, empathy, and global responsibility.
Location
Mohammed Bin Zayed City, 9 Near Al Safir Mall
Contact Information
+971-2-553-0935
Rating
Good
Grades
Grade 11, Grade 12
School Fees
AED 15,060 to AED 32,300
10. Australian School of Abu Dhabi
The Australian School of Abu Dhabi is dedicated to academic excellence and fostering a strong connection to UAE heritage. The school also boasts impressive academic performance, particularly in writing and scientific literacy within the Middle Years Programme.
Beyond academics, ASAD celebrates its students’ success, with notable achievements such as winning the 2023 ADNOC Youth Championship and securing third place in the 2023 Abu Dhabi School Basketball Championship.
The campus offers excellent facilities, including a library, swimming pool, soccer field, gym, masjid, and an auditorium, ensuring a well-rounded student experience.
Location
Opposite The Civil Defence Building, Khalifa City B
Contact Information
+971-2-586-6980
Rating
Good
Grades
KG-1 to Grade 12
School Fees
AED 14,975 to AED 35,534
FAQs
IB schools in Abu Dhabi offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts and music. Other activities include leadership programs and community service opportunities.
The IB program is an internationally recognised educational curriculum emphasising critical thinking, global awareness, and academic accuracy. It prepares students for university and beyond.
Yes! The IB program is recognised by universities worldwide, and many students from IB schools in Abu Dhabi study at top universities worldwide.
IB schools in Abu Dhabi offer more than just academics, they help students become confident, well-rounded global citizens. With excellent facilities, a strong curriculum, and plenty of activities, these schools prepare students for success in today’s world.
Furthermore, you can also explore British schools in Abu Dhabi on the Property Finder Blog.
