Baniyas, one of Abu Dhabi’s well-established residential areas, has emerged as a sought-after location for families seeking quality education. With a wide selection of institutions offering Ministry of Education (MoE), British, American, and Indian (CBSE) curricula, schools in Baniyas cater to students from FS1/Pre-K through Year 13/Grade 12.
In this guide, you will find:
- Overview of Baniyas Schools
- Top Schools in Baniyas, Abu Dhabi
- School Comparison Table
- Admission and Fees
- Facilities and Extracurriculars
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Overview of Baniyas Schools
Baniyas in Abu Dhabi hosts a diverse mix of private schools that serve both local and expatriate communities. The area is known for its accessibility and family-friendly environment, making it an attractive choice for parents prioritising education.
Most schools in Baniyas focus on academic excellence combined with holistic development. Curricula range from the UAE Ministry of Education framework to internationally recognised programmes such as British, American, and Indian (CBSE). Students are supported through modern classrooms, science and computer laboratories, sports facilities, and extracurricular programmes designed to build critical thinking and life skills.
Several schools in the area have received positive ADEK ratings, including “Good”, alongside strong parent feedback. This balance of quality, affordability, and curriculum variety makes Baniyas a strong contender for families planning for the upcoming academic year.
Top Schools in Baniyas, Abu Dhabi
Below is a curated list of some of the most recognised and sought-after schools in Baniyas, based strictly on the information provided.
1. Al Ekhlass Private School
Established in 1987, Al Ekhlass Private School follows the Ministry of Education curriculum and caters to students from FS2 through Year 13. It is a co-educational institution known for its focus on Arabic and English language proficiency, alongside critical thinking development.
The school offers modern classrooms, science laboratories, a library, and sports areas. With entry fees starting at AED 5,520, Al Ekhlass is considered one of the more affordable MoE options among schools in Baniyas.
Location
It is located in Baniyas East, Near Lulu Hypermarket – Abu Dhabi
Email: Alikhlas@Alikhlaspvt.com
Phone: 02 5853591
KHDA rating: Acceptable
Average fees: from AED 5,520 for KG1 to AED 16,470 for Grade 12
2. Baraem Al Ain Private School
Founded in 1985, Baraem Al Ain Private School delivers the MoE curriculum from KG to Grade 12. The school is co-educational and emphasises critical thinking, moral values, and inclusivity.
Its world-class infrastructure supports both academic and personal growth, making it a popular choice for families seeking a values-driven education within Baniyas.
Location
It is located in P3 – 12 Al Turjman St – Bani Yas – Baniyas East – Abu Dhabi
Email: info@baraemabudhabi.ae
Phone: 02 583 1818
KHDA rating: Very good
Average fees: from AED3,890 for KG1 to AED 12,790 for Grade 12
3. Baniyas International Private School
Baniyas International Private School offers an American curriculum and currently caters to students from FS2 to Year 9, with plans for expansion.
As a co-educational institution, it features state-of-the-art facilities and charges entry fees of approximately AED 13,890. This school appeals to families looking for an American education pathway within the Baniyas area.
Location
It is located in 19th St – Bani Yas – EB1 01 – Abu Dhabi
Email: info@adbips.com
Phone: 025827555
KHDA rating: Good
Average fees: from AED15,120 for KG1 to AED 31,690 for Grade 12
4. GEMS Cambridge International School – Abu Dhabi
GEMS Cambridge International School is part of the renowned GEMS Education network and follows the British curriculum from FS1 through Year 13.
The school is recognised for its strong academic outcomes, including 16% A* results at A-Level and 30% A* at GCSE. Facilities include advanced laboratories, arts spaces, sports areas, and a strong extracurricular programme. Among British schools in Baniyas, GEMS Cambridge stands out for its global reputation and academic performance.
Location
It is located in Mall – 6th St, Baniyas East, Near – Bawabat Al Sharq – Abu Dhabi
Email: registrar_cia@gemsedu.com
Phone: 025827555
KHDA rating: Very good
Average fees: from AED 23,730 for KG1 to AED 40,340 for Grade 12
5. Global Indian International School, Baniyas East
Global Indian International School (GIIS) in Baniyas East offers a CBSE and Montessori-based curriculum from KG1 to Grade 12.
As a co-educational day school, GIIS caters to families looking for a consistent Indian curriculum with international exposure.
Location
It is located in Bani Yas – Baniyas East – Abu Dhabi
Phone: +971 4 281 0800
KHDA rating: Good
Average fees: from AED 11,540 for KG1 to AED 13,650 for Grade 12
6. International Indian School Abu Dhabi, Baniyas West
International Indian School Abu Dhabi (IIS) in Baniyas West follows the CBSE curriculum, with EYFS and international approaches for lower years, serving students from Pre-K through Grade 12.
The school focuses on 21st-century skills, critical thinking, and holistic development, supported by a modern campus and strong emphasis on health and safety.
Location
It is located in 42 Street – Bani Yas – Baniyas West – Abu Dhabi
Email: contact@iischoolabudhabi.com
Phone: 02 585 4499
KHDA rating: Good
Average fees: from AED 12,200 for KG1 to AED 17,200 for Grade 12
7. Future Leaders International Private School, Baniyas
Future Leaders International Private School follows an American curriculum and is known for its iPad-integrated classrooms and strong STEM/STEAM focus.
The school adopts a student-centred approach and provides modern facilities designed to support innovation, creativity, and digital learning.
Location
It is located in Street No. 33 Baniyas East 9 – Bani Yas – Abu Dhabi
Email: info@futureleaders.sch.ae
Phone: 02 632 2213
8. GEMS United Indian School, Baniyas West
GEMS United Indian School in Baniyas West offers the Indian curriculum and is part of the renowned GEMS Education network.
It is a co-educational institution catering to families seeking a structured Indian education within a globally recognised school group.
Location
It is located in 42 nd, Baniyas West, Abu Dhabi
Email: registrar_uis@gemsedu.com
Phone: 02 205 9777
KHDA rating: Good
Average fees: from AED 10,420 for KG1 to AED 20,700 for Grade 12
Schools in Baniyas Comparison Table
| School Name | Curriculum | Grades | Key Features |
| Al Ekhlass Private School | MoE | FS2-Year 13 | Arabic/English focus, labs, sports |
| Baraem Al Ain Private School | MoE | KG-Grade 12 | Critical thinking, inclusivity |
| Baniyas International Private School | American | FS2-Year 9 | State-of-the-art facilities |
| GEMS Cambridge International School | British | FS1-Year 13 | High A-Level/GCSE results, GEMS network |
| International Indian School Abu Dhabi | CBSE/EYFS | PreK-Grade 12 | 21st-century skills, modern campus |
| Future Leaders International School | American | FS1-Year 13 | iPad classrooms, STEM focus |
Admission and Fees
Entry fees generally range between AED 5,000 and AED 14,000, while full tuition fees vary based on curriculum, grade level, and facilities.
For MoE schools, ADEK approvals are required as part of the admission process. British and American schools often highlight examination results as part of their placement criteria.
However, each school follows its own admission process, and parents are advised to contact schools directly for updated 2026 intake details.
Facilities and Extracurriculars
Most schools in Baniyas offer well-rounded facilities, including science and computer laboratories, libraries, sports courts, and art and music rooms. Modern classrooms are a standard feature across many institutions.
Standout offerings include GEMS Cambridge International School’s advanced ICT and sports facilities, International Indian School’s strong focus on health and safety, and Future Leaders International School’s iPad-based learning environment and STEM laboratories.
Extracurricular activities are widely encouraged, supporting student development beyond academics.
Key Takeaways
Baniyas is home to numerous well-regarded schools offering a wide range of curricula, including Ministry of Education (MoE), British, American, and Indian programmes, making the area suitable for families with diverse educational preferences. Among the strongest performers are GEMS Cambridge International School, known for its impressive UK examination results, alongside Al Ekhlass and Baraem Al Ain, which are popular for providing more affordable MoE-based education.
Indian curricula are also highly sought after in the area, with schools such as International Indian School Abu Dhabi and Global Indian International School offering CBSE pathways through Grades 9 to 12. Parents are advised to review ADEK ratings and confirm 2026 fee structures directly with schools, while also considering whether Baniyas East or West best suits their location and commute needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Al Ekhlass Private School and Baraem Al Ain Private School offer MoE curricula with relatively lower entry fees.
British curriculum is offered by GEMS Cambridge International School, while American curricula are available at Baniyas International Private School and Future Leaders International School.
Yes, International Indian School Abu Dhabi (Baniyas West) and Global Indian International School (Baniyas East) offer CBSE programmes.
Most schools provide laboratories, libraries, sports areas, and arts rooms, with premium schools offering iPads, STEM labs, and advanced ICT facilities.
Parents should contact schools directly via their official websites or phone. MoE schools require ADEK approval as part of the admission process.
