Abu Dhabi’s education system focuses on quality, innovation and ongoing improvement to stay aligned with international standards. There are schools in Shabiya that reflect this standard through strong ADEK ratings, modern teaching methods and a mix of curriculum options.
Whether you’re enrolling your child in early years or higher grades, you’re likely looking for strong academics, a supportive setting and practical learning that prepares your child for real-life success, and that’s what these schools aim to offer.
- Shining Star International School
- Sunrise English Private School
- The Cambridge High School
- Private International English School (Bhavans)
- Royal American School
- Pakistan Community Welfare School
- Dunes International School
- Merryland International School
- FAQs
List of 8 Best Schools in Shabiya
There are many top-rated schools in Abu Dhabi. In this list, we’re focusing on the best options available right in Shabiya, making it easier for you to find a school close to home.
1. Shining Star International School
First in the list is the Shining Star International School (SSIS), one of the best private schools in Abu Dhabi. It’s a CBSE-accredited school in Abu Dhabi that provides a well-rounded education to a diverse student community. The school focuses on both academic strength and personal development, using a learning approach that’s rooted in research and real-life skills.
Students are encouraged to think critically, be creative and take responsibility, helping them grow both in and out of the classroom. What makes SSIS stand out is its supportive environment.
Teachers work in small groups to give students the attention they need and stay in close touch with parents through regular updates and meetings. With children from many backgrounds and a culture that values inclusion, SSIS offers a space where students can learn, grow and build confidence for the future.
Location
Shabiya 12, Musaffah, Abu Dhabi
Curriculum
CBSE
Fees
The fee structure for Shining Star International School (SSIS) for every grade is as follows:
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| KG 1 -2 | AED 8630 |
| Grade 1-2 | AED 11240 |
| Grade 3-4 | AED 11560 |
| Grade 5-6 | AED 13730 |
| Grade 7-8 | AED 14840 |
| Grade 9 | AED 15920 |
| Grade 10 | AED 15840 |
| Grade 11-12 | AED 16930 |
Facilities
- Computer Labs
- Experimental Labs
- Sports Facility
- Library
- Transport with GPS Tracking
- Robotics
- Cafeteria
- Multipurpose Auditorium
- Health Clinic
- Science Laboratory
- Physics, Chemistry and Biology Lab
ADEK Rating
Good
Contact Details
- Phone Number: +971-2-559-6444, +971-2-559-9080
- Email: info@ssis.ae
2. Sunrise English Private School
Sunrise English Private School has built a strong presence in Abu Dhabi over the years. It is considered one of the best Indian schools in Abu Dhabi for the Indian expatriate community. The school supports both academic success and personal growth by encouraging students to think independently and ask questions.
With experienced teachers and an interactive classroom setting, your child gets the chance to develop confidence, communication skills and a strong sense of cultural understanding.
Location
Near Safeer Mall, Shabiya, ME-09, Abu Dhabi
Curriculum
CBSE
Fees
The fee structure for Sunrise English Private School is as follows:
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| KG 1-2 | AED 8660 |
| Grade 1-2 | AED 8100 |
| Grade 3-6 | AED 8190 |
| Grade 7-9 | AED 9190 |
| Grade 10 | AED 9100 |
| Grade 11-12 | AED 12770 |
Facilities
- Clinic
- Sports
- Robotics
- Organic Farm
- Separate Libraries
- Chemistry, Physics, Bio and Computer Science Lab
ADEK Rating
Good
Contact Details
- Phone Number: +971-2-552-9989
- Email: school@seps-auh.com
3. The Cambridge High School
If you want your child to learn and grow in a diverse setting, The Cambridge High School can be a great fit. With students from over 45 nationalities, the school creates a welcoming space where different cultures come together in one community.
Beyond academics, students get many chances to join co-curricular activities, whether it’s in sports, the arts, or leadership. The school believes every student should get equal opportunities to discover what they’re good at. Over the years, it has built a strong record of helping students succeed not just in exams, but also in real-world experiences.
Location
ME 9, Shabia (Near Safeer Mall), Mussafah, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi
Curriculum
British
Fees
Fee structure for Cambridge High School at a glance.
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| FS2 | AED 16960 |
| Year 1-2 | AED 20520 |
| Year 3-4 | AED 22000 |
| Year 5-6 | AED 23840 |
| Year 7-8 | AED 27850 |
| Year 9-10 | AED 29450 |
| Year 11 | AED 31190 |
| Year 12-13 | AED 35760 |
Facilities
- Library
- Art Studios
- Auditorium
- Music Studios
- Medical Care
- Prayer Room
- Science Labs
- School Cafeteria
- Swimming Pool
- Computer Facilities
- Multi-purpose Court
- Early Years Playground
- Special Room Dedicated to English Language Support
ADEK Rating
Very Good
Contact Details
Phone Number: +971-2-552-1621
Email: info_chs@gemsedu.com
4. Private International English School
Private International English School (Bhavans) is part of a well-known educational group with roots in India. The Abu Dhabi branch brings the same focus on discipline, academic strength and cultural values. It’s built for families looking for a structured learning environment where students are expected to stay on track and develop with purpose.
What makes this school different is how it blends strong academics with day-to-day habits that help children stay organised and independent, from lockers in every classroom to regular classroom libraries and student-run magazines. The atmosphere is calm and focused, giving students space to grow, take part in a range of activities and learn how to manage both studies and responsibilities with confidence.
Location
Mussafah, Sector 9, Shabiya
Curriculum
CBSE
Fees
Take a look at the fee structure below for the Private International English School.
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| Preschool (Ages 3-4), KG 1 and 2 | AED 10800 |
| Grade 1-2 | AED 13650 |
| Grade 3-5 | AED 13740 |
| Grade 6-8 | AED 16490 |
| Grade 9 | AED 20520 |
| Grade 10-12 | AED 20420 |
Facilities
- Music Room
- Dance Room
- Math lab
- Organic & Flower Garden
- Football Court
- Play Area
- KG Play Area
- Food Court
- Auditorium
- Library
- Computer Lab
- Biology Lab
- Psychology Lab
- Physics Lab
- Chemistry Lab
ADEK Rating
Very Good
Contact Details
- Phone Number:+971-2-559-1777, +971-5-6703-3925
- Email: info@bhavansabudhabi.com
5. Royal American School
Royal American School (formerly known as Al Maali International School) is among the top American schools in Abu Dhabi. The school places equal importance on academic achievement and personal development, encouraging students to become thoughtful, responsible individuals. So, they can adapt to change and make a difference in the world. Whether a student wants to follow a professional career path or contribute meaningfully to their community, the school works to equip them with the mindset and tools to do so with confidence.
Location
Shaiya 12, Near Shabiya Bus Station, Abu Dhabi
Curriculum
American
Fees
Here is the complete fee structure for Royal American School
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| KG 1-2 | AED 12360 |
| Grade 1 | AED 13350 |
| Grade 2 | AED 13790 |
| Grade 3 | AED 14350 |
| Grade 4 | AED 14780 |
| Grade 5 | AED 15220 |
| Grade 6 | AED 15670 |
| Grade 7 | AED 17160 |
| Grade 8 | AED 17900 |
| Grade 9 | AED 19390 |
| Grade 10 | AED 20030 |
| Grade 11 | AED 20760 |
| Grade 12 | AED 21510 |
Facilities
- Canteen
- Clinic
- Swimming Pool
- Cricket Pitch
- Gymnastics
- Tennis
ADEK Rating
Good
Contact Details
- Phone Number: +971-2-559-1000
- Email: info@royalschool.ae
6. Pakistan Community Welfare School
This school offers a strong and reliable option for Pakistani families living in the UAE. It focuses on making education affordable while staying true to key values. Students learn to respect their culture and take responsibility for their actions. At the same time, they build the skills needed for life beyond school.
It’s a grounded, value-driven space for practical growth and learning. Moreover, it is one of the affordable schools in Abu Dhabi, offering quality education.
Location
1808, Muhammad Bin Zayed City, Shabiya 12, Abu Dhabi
Curriculum
Pakistani
Fees
Here’s the breakdown of the fee structure for the Pakistan Community Welfare School.
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| KG 1 -2 | AED 3833 |
| Grade 1-2 | AED 4025 |
| Grade 3-4 | AED 4226 |
| Grade 5-6 | AED 4437 |
| Grade 7-8 | AED 4659 |
Facilities
- Secure Environment
- Sports Facilities
- Full-time School Nurse
- Smart Classrooms
ADEK Rating
Good
Contact Details
- Phone Number: +971-2-553-0532
- Email: pcws777@gmail.com
7. Dunes International School
Dunes International School may be second last on the list, but it offers the same quality and values as the others. It creates a learning space where students feel supported, challenged and encouraged to do their best. Here, your child learns in an environment that blends technology with traditional values, helping them build confidence and skills for the future.
The school believes parents play a key role in a child’s education. Families are actively involved through regular feedback and communication, making them part of their child’s journey right from the early years.
Location
Plot no. 19 Sector 9, Mussafah, Abu Dhabi
Curriculum
CBSE
Fees
The following is the current fee structure for Dunes International School.
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| Preschool (Ages 3-4), KG 1 | AED 12320 |
| KG2 | AED 12830 |
| Grade 1-2 | AED 14370 |
| Grade 3-5 | AED 15990 |
| Grade 6 | AED 18040 |
| Grade 7 | AED 18560 |
| Grade 8 | AED 20090 |
| Grade 9 | AED 21630 |
| Grade 10 | AED 22580 |
| Grade 11-12 | AED 24120 |
Facilities
- Sports Pavillion
- Cricket Pitch
- Auditorium
- Basketball Court
- Kids Play Area
- Swimming Pool
- Karate
ADEK Rating
Good
Contact Details
- Phone Number: +971-2-5527527
- Email: info@dunesinternationalschool.com
8. Merryland International School
Merryland International School started as a small dream nearly 45 years ago and has since become one of Abu Dhabi’s respected educational institutions. Founded by Mrs. Susheela George, an experienced and dedicated educator, the school embodies her lifelong commitment to caring for young minds.
Today, Merryland welcomes students from over 60 nationalities into a diverse, supportive and interactive environment. The school operates under the “3D Principle”—Divinity, Dedication and Discipline. Through this framework, Merryland aims to inspire students to strive for excellence in all areas of life, making it one of the best British schools in Abu Dhabi.
Location
Plot 13, ME-9, MBZ City, Mussaffah, Abu Dhabi
Curriculum
British
Fees
You can find the fee structure for Merryland International School below.
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| Preschool (Ages 3-4) KG 1 | AED 25850 |
| KG 2 | AED 26620 |
| Grade 1-2 | AED 30040 |
| Grade 3-4 | AED 30580 |
| Grade 5-6 | AED 32670 |
| Grade 7-8 | AED 36630 |
| Grade 9 | AED 38610 |
| Grade 10 | AED 39280 |
| Grade 11 | AED 44010 |
| Grade 12 | AED 45220 |
Facilities
- Indoor Temperature-controlled Swimming Pool
- Indoor Sports Hall
- Science & computer labs
- Clinic
ADEK Rating
Outstanding
Contact Details
- Phone: +971-2-551-9626
- Email: contact@merryland.org
FAQS
School fees in Abu Dhabi can differ quite a bit depending on the curriculum and school type. On the lower end, some schools charge around AED 2,200 annually, while premium international schools can go up to AED 96,000 or more. Most international schools fall in the AED 35,000–120,000 range. Keep in mind, these figures usually don’t include extras like transport, uniforms, or school supplies.
Yes, there are several affordable options with good ADEK ratings. Schools like Al Bashair Private School, Private International English School (Bhavans), Abu Dhabi International Private School and Al Ain American Private School offer quality education with annual fees under AED 30,000.
This is the list of the best schools in Shabiya, each of them known for a good to outstanding ADEK rating. These schools have the potential to promote creative learning while equipping your child with the skills and knowledge needed to grow in both professional and practical fields.
The list also covers a variety of curriculum options, making it easier for you to choose what suits your child best.
For more options, you can also check the list of public schools in Abu Dhabi on the Property Finder website.
