Abu Dhabi International School vs The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys

	A Abu Dhabi International School Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates	T The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 26,275 - 50,350	Fees / year AED 45,000 - 78,050
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, UAE Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 3,500	Pupils 1,378
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 24
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1992	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location AIS operates across two campuses in Abu Dhabi: the AD Campus is located on Al Karama Street in the Abu Dhabi City area, and the MBZ Campus is in Mohammed Bin Zayed City. The AD Campus address places it in a central Abu Dhabi neighbourhood, while the MBZ Campus serves families in the northern part of the emirate. The school arranges a two-way bus service with routes that reach multiple areas, including Abu Dhabi City limits, Shamkha, Reem Island, Yas Island, Khalifa City, and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.	Location The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys is located on Al Falah Street, Abu Dhabi. It sits in downtown Abu Dhabi as part of The Sheikh Zayed Private Academies group. The campus is a single building with shared grounds, and school transport operates within Abu Dhabi Island.
Stages	Stages AIS offers Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle, and High School, with the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) available for Grades 11–12. The school operates across two campuses with programs aligned to K-12 education and IB pathways.	Stages The school serves students aged 3 to 19. Pre-K through Grade 3 are co-educational across the SZPA group; from Grade 4 onward SZPAB is all-boys and SZPAG is girls-only.
School type	School type AIS is a private, international, day school that is co-educational. The two campuses are located in Abu Dhabi City and Mohammed Bin Zayed City.	School type SZPAB is a boys' day school. The SZPA group operates a co-educational model from Pre-K through Grade 3, transitioning to single-gender provision from Grade 4 (boys at SZPAB, girls at SZPAG).
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix AIS represents around 60 nationalities across approximately 3,500 students across its two campuses. The school notes a diverse international community, with a proportion of students and staff from many national backgrounds; local-to-international ratios are not published.	Pupil nationality mix SZPAB reports a diverse student body; approximately 95% of students are Emirati. Public materials do not disclose an exact count of nationalities represented, but international enrollment is a minority (about 5%).
Additional learning support	Additional learning support AIS provides a comprehensive Student Support Services program, including Counseling, Special Education services, Enrichment for gifted and talented students, Academic support, English Language Learner services, and Social and Emotional Learning programs.	Additional learning support The school has an Inclusion Team with Learning Support staff, school counselors, and nurses. Learning support is provided based on assessed needs to enable students to reach their potential, and the team advises teachers on appropriate strategies.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation No formal country affiliation is stated; AIS is licensed by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education (ADEK framework) and operates as a UAE-based international school.	Country affiliation The school is based in the United Arab Emirates. The SZPA network promotes Emirati national identity within an international framework and uses a blended curriculum that combines American and UAE MOE components.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated. AIS emphasizes diversity and inclusion across a multicultural student body.	Religious affiliation There is no explicit religious affiliation. Islamic Studies is included as part of the UAE MOE curriculum alongside Arabic and UAE Social Studies.
School day structure	School day structure Exact start and end times vary by campus and grade level. The Academic Calendar for 2025–2026 is published by AIS, and admissions hours are typically 8:00–15:00 on weekdays, with shorter hours on Fridays.	School day structure The school day starts at 7:55am. Pre-K to KG2 finishes at 12:35pm (Mon–Thu) and 12:00pm on Fridays; Grades 1–12 finish at 2:45pm (Mon–Thu) and 12:00pm on Fridays.
Bus service details	Bus service details AIS offers a two-way bus service with separate PS, KG and Prep afternoon routes, and separate morning/afternoon routes for Grades 1–12 as needed. Pick-up locations include Abu Dhabi City Limits, Shamkha, Reem Island, Mohammad Bin Zayed City, Shabiya, Khalifa City, Yas Island, and other areas. The annual bus fee is AED 4,950, including a non-refundable AED 500 registration, and registrations are on a first-come, first-served basis.	Bus service details The school bus service is provided by Emirates Transport. Bus routes are designed to keep travel times within 60 minutes of each origin and destination. The annual bus fee is AED 5,000, and seats are secured after payment. Buses are CCTV-monitored and have a licensed bus supervisor. Bus information is available through the SZPAB contact channels and the ADEK Bus Transportation Safety Guidelines.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / Registration fees - The tuition schedule lists a non-refundable registration fee of AED 1,500 per student. - The school's Tuition Fee Policy states that the registration fee (and the re‑registration fee) is normally calculated as 5% of the yearly tuition and is deductible from the student's final tuition fees for the academic year; specific refund conditions for registration and re‑registration are set out in the policy. Tuition fees by year group (MBZ Campus — full year, books, total and three term instalments) - S‑NY: Tuition AED 25,000; Books AED 1,275; Total fees AED 26,275; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 11,275, 2nd AED 7,500, 3rd AED 6,000. - KG: Tuition AED 31,800; Books AED 1,835; Total fees AED 33,635; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 14,555, 2nd AED 9,540, 3rd AED 8,040. - Prep: Tuition AED 31,800; Books AED 1,965; Total fees AED 33,765; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 14,685, 2nd AED 9,540, 3rd AED 8,040. - Grade 1: Tuition AED 37,200; Books AED 2,300; Total fees AED 39,500; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,180, 2nd AED 11,160, 3rd AED 9,660. - Grade 2: Tuition AED 37,200; Books AED 1,900; Total fees AED 39,100; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 16,780, 2nd AED 11,160, 3rd AED 9,660. - Grade 3: Tuition AED 38,850; Books AED 2,000; Total fees AED 40,850; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,540, 2nd AED 11,655, 3rd AED 10,155. - Grade 4: Tuition AED 38,850; Books AED 1,800; Total fees AED 40,650; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,340, 2nd AED 11,655, 3rd AED 10,155. - Grade 5: Tuition AED 40,500; Books AED 1,800; Total fees AED 42,300; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 18,000, 2nd AED 12,150, 3rd AED 10,650. - Grade 6: Tuition AED 40,500; Books AED 1,700; Total fees AED 42,200; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 17,900, 2nd AED 12,150, 3rd AED 10,650. - Grade 7: Tuition AED 43,000; Books AED 2,200; Total fees AED 45,200; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 19,400, 2nd AED 12,900, 3rd AED 11,400. - Grade 8: Tuition AED 43,000; Books AED 2,200; Total fees AED 45,200; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 19,400, 2nd AED 12,900, 3rd AED 11,400. - Grade 9: Tuition AED 45,450; Books AED 2,700; Total fees AED 48,150; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 20,880, 2nd AED 13,635, 3rd AED 12,135. - Grade 10: Tuition AED 45,450; Books AED 2,500; Total fees AED 47,950; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 20,680, 2nd AED 13,635, 3rd AED 12,135. - Grade 11: Tuition AED 47,950; Books AED 2,400; Total fees AED 50,350; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 21,580, 2nd AED 14,385, 3rd AED 12,885. - Grade 12: Tuition AED 47,950; Books AED 2,000; Total fees AED 49,950; Registration fee AED 1,500; Instalments — 1st AED 21,180, 2nd AED 14,385, 3rd AED 12,885. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school divides the total annual tuition into three termly instalments. Term 1 covers September–December (4 months), Term 2 covers January–March (3 months) and Term 3 covers April–June (3 months). The standard due dates for the three term invoices are 1 August (Term 1), 1 December (Term 2) and 1 March (Term 3). A full‑year invoice can be issued on request with a due date of 1 August. - Tuition may be paid in three instalments; uniforms and books may only be collected after presentation/clearance of all three instalments. Students will not be enrolled if payments are not made. The school may suspend students, withhold reports or block re‑enrolment for unpaid fees following the stated late‑payment procedures. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. Abu Dhabi International School is a K–12 day school. Other costs and fees - Bus transport and uniform costs are not included in the tuition figures shown and are charged separately. Extra fees apply for special education services where required. - A separate IB Diploma Programme (DP) official examination fee of AED 3,500 is charged in Grade 12 for IBDP students; this fee is subject to adjustment. Refunds and withdrawal terms - Registration fee refund: the policy permits the registration fee to be refundable for new students if written notification is provided at least two weeks prior to the start of the new academic year (deadline stated as 15 August). Re‑registration refunds must be requested on or before 30 June. - Tuition retention on withdrawal: if a student attends up to part of the first week of term and then discontinues without sufficient written notification, the school may retain up to 5% of the annual tuition. If a student attends one to three weeks in a term, the school will retain one full month's tuition; attendance over three to six weeks leads to retention of two months' tuition; attendance beyond six weeks leads to retention of the full term fee. Refunds are otherwise handled according to ADEK rules and the school's published policy. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods include online payment link, bank transfer, cheque, cash, credit card and the PayNest mobile application. Returned cheque bank charges will be charged to the parent. Notes - The annual figures above are shown for the MBZ Campus fee schedule for the 2025–26 academic year and include the listed book charge; bus, uniform and other ancillary charges are additional. Instalment amounts and totals are those published in the school's published fee schedule.	Fee details Application / Registration fee - A registration fee equal to 5% of the annual tuition is payable when an offer is accepted. Annual tuition fees (2025–2026) — by year group - Pre K: AED 45,000. - KG1 & KG2: AED 58,390. - Grades 1–5: AED 64,250. - Grades 6–9: AED 70,920. - Grades 10–12: AED 78,050. Per-term / installment amounts and how fees are billed - The registration fee (5% of the annual fee) is paid on acceptance. The remaining tuition is split into three installments. Installments are paid across the three academic terms. The standard calculation is: Registration = 5% of annual fee; Remaining tuition = 95% of annual fee; Each installment = Remaining tuition ÷ 3. - Example instalments (rounded to two decimal places) using the school's 2025–2026 annual fees: - Pre K — Registration: AED 2,250.00; Three equal term installments: AED 14,250.00 each. - KG1 & KG2 — Registration: AED 2,919.50; Three equal term installments: AED 18,490.17 each. - Grades 1–5 — Registration: AED 3,212.50; Three equal term installments: AED 20,345.83 each. - Grades 6–9 — Registration: AED 3,546.00; Three equal term installments: AED 22,458.00 each. - Grades 10–12 — Registration: AED 3,902.50; Three equal term installments: AED 24,715.83 each. Billing schedule and payment terms - The 5% registration fee is due on acceptance. The remaining tuition balance is payable in three installments aligned to the three school terms. Non-payment may result in withholding of report cards or transfer documentation and follow-up according to ADEK guidelines. Bank / payment details and accepted payment method(s) - The school provides bank account details for payment by bank transfer. For the Boys Academy the bank information is provided as follows: Account Name: The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys LLC; Bank: First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC; Branch: Main Branch, Abu Dhabi, UAE; IBAN: AE450357771001842202010; SWIFT: NBADAEAA. Payments are therefore settled via bank transfer to the account details above unless other arrangements are agreed with the accounts office. Boarding fees (if applicable) - Boarding is not applicable. The academies operate as day schools; no boarding provision or boarding fees are listed. Other costs and fees - Uniforms are not included in the published tuition fees. A school uniform supply contact is available; uniform costs are additional and purchased separately. - Transportation is not included in the tuition fees. School bus fees are charged separately; published bus fees are AED 5,000 per year for the service (one-way or two-way the same), with seats secured only after complete payment. - A school digital device is compulsory from Grades 3 through 12; the cost of the device is additional to the tuition fee and parents will be informed of the charge. - Any optional extras (co-curricular charges, trips, exam fees, laptops/devices beyond the compulsory device, specialist materials) are charged in addition to the tuition and are not reflected in the annual tuition figures above. Refund and withdrawal policy - If a parent withdraws before the start of the academic year and submits the official withdrawal form to the registrar, the 5% registration advance is refundable. If withdrawal occurs after the start of the academic year, the school charges according to the student's period of attendance: no-show or attendance under 1 week — registration/re-registration fee only; over 1 week and up to 3 weeks in the term — one full month's tuition; over 3 weeks and up to 6 weeks — two full months' tuition; over 6 weeks — full term tuition. Non-payment consequences - Outstanding fees may lead to withholding of examination report cards, transfer certificates or blocking transfer on eSIS; the school will issue warning letters and proceed according to ADEK non-payment guidelines. Notes - The figures above are the published applied tuition fees for the academic year 2025–2026 for The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys, and other mandatory or optional charges (uniform, transport, devices, co-curricular or trip costs) are extra to the tuition figures shown.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements AIS is a private, coeducational K-12 day school with two campuses in MBZ City and Abu Dhabi City, and a planned third campus in Saadiyat. Boarding is not offered, as the institution operates as a day school. AIS provides a two-way bus service for students, with PS/KG and Prep routes separate from Grades 1–12 for afternoon trips, and Grade 1–12 buses that may operate in the morning and/or afternoon depending on demand. The annual bus charge is AED 4,950 (including a non-refundable AED 500 registration fee), and routes cover multiple locations around Abu Dhabi with registration on a first-come, first-served basis.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement AIS requires all students to wear the full AIS uniform. For boys, the dress code specifies AIS uniform trousers and shirt with the AIS jacket, plain white undershirts, plain black or white shoes, and white socks, with hair neatly groomed and facial hair not allowed. For girls, the dress code requires AIS uniform trousers/shirt with the AIS jacket, plain white undershirts, hair tied back, veils permitted in white/blue/grey/black, makeup and nail polish not allowed, and only a single stud per ear. Uniforms (including polo shirts for events) can be ordered online via the parent portal and collected from the school uniform store.	Uniform requirement SZPAB maintains a strict uniform policy. Students must wear the official school uniform for their grade level, and modifications are not permitted. Uniforms can be purchased online or from the Globe Uniform shop located on The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Girls campus.
Food options	Food options AIS maintains a canteen that provides healthy, nutrient-rich meals in line with Abu Dhabi guidelines. Parents are encouraged to pack healthy meals for their child, and items such as nuts are prohibited; external food deliveries are not allowed during school hours. The school emphasizes hydration, with water available on site and students encouraged to bring a water bottle.	Food options An in-school catering service is available for Grades 1–12, operated by Emirates Taste Catering Services, offering hot and cold food in pre-wrapped portions as a grab-and-go service. Pre-K to KG2 students should bring a healthy snack; Grades 1–3 students may bring snacks or order from the school canteen for delivery to homeroom during break, while Grades 4–12 students may bring snacks or purchase from the canteen.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership AIS is a private, MOE-licensed day school operating from two campuses (AD City and MBZ City) with a planned third campus in Saadiyat. Governance is provided by a formal structure that includes a Board of Trustees, a Parent Committee, a Student Council, and school leadership, reflecting a multi-body governance model within the AIS family.	Governance and ownership SZPAB is governed as part of The Sheikh Zayed Private Academies (SZPA), a group that includes SZPAG and SZPAB. The site does not publish a specific statement about the legal ownership structure.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details AIS offers a tri-path curriculum: the American Program with AP, the British Program with IGCSE and AS/A Levels, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), with the DP available at the MBZ campus for Grades 11–12 and the British/American tracks running through Grades 9–12 (IGCSE in Grade 10; AS/A Levels in Grades 11–12; AP in Grades 11–12). Kindergarten (ages 3–5) uses a play-based, inquiry-driven approach with the sMiles phonics program to support early English and Arabic literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development. Elementary School (Grades 1–5) emphasizes CCSS and NGSS-aligned learning, with core English, Math, Science plus Arabic/French language development, ICT, and STEM. Middle School (Grades 6–8) expands to English, Science, Math, Social Studies, Moral Education, Performing and Visual Arts, PE, Arabic/French, ICT, and Islamic Studies, with counseling services. High School (Grades 9–12) provides American, British, or IB pathways: AP courses in the American track, IGCSE in Grade 10 followed by AS/A Levels in Grades 11–12 for the British track, and the IB Diploma Programme for eligible students.	Curriculum details SZPAB delivers a blended curriculum that combines the American Massachusetts State Common Core with the UAE Ministry of Education curriculum, including MOE subjects Arabic, Islamic Studies and UAE Social Studies, and programs such as My Identity. Arabi, an Arabic language enhancement program, was launched in 2022-2023 to strengthen Arabic from KG1 to Grade 12. The Eyal Zayed Program, a joint initiative with the UAE Armed Forces, aims to develop leadership, loyalty and service among students. SZPAB is accredited by CIS and NEASC and is designated by the College Board to offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school organizes its curriculum by stage: Early Childhood (Pre-K to Grade 1), Elementary (Grades 2–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8) and High School (Grades 9–12); Middle School assessments are standards-based with MAP testing, while High School uses traditional percentage-based grading with regular parent reports. SZPAB is an Apple Distinguished School, reflecting a strong emphasis on technology-enabled, innovative learning.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning AIS supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through dedicated programs designed to develop self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making. The AIS Inclusion Services page explicitly lists Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Programs as a core component of student support. The AIS Student Support Services Department provides services designed to support students academically, socially, and emotionally, including counseling services. Counseling services are provided by counselors or psychologists to support students who may be struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, or other personal issues. SEL initiatives are integrated within the school's inclusive framework to promote well-being and positive relationships among students.	Social & emotional learning SZPAB supports Social and Emotional Learning through a daily homeroom where each student meets with a teacher to monitor personal, social and emotional development, and via an Inclusion Team comprising Learning Support teachers, assistants, school counselors and school nurses who provide targeted support and guidance; the school also fosters a culture of respect and tolerance through the Zayed Tolerance Pledge.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) AIS offers Special Education services to students with disabilities to ensure appropriate accommodations and support. The program includes speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. The school uses inclusive approaches such as full mainstreaming, adaptive classes, partial mainstreaming, and progressive mainstreaming to place students in learning environments that meet their needs. The AIS Inclusion Program has been recognized by ADEK as an outstanding program and best practice. The curriculum is described as increasingly individualized for SEN and Gifted & Talented (G&T) students.	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support is provided by the Inclusion Team based on assessed student needs to help those requiring additional assistance; SZPAB is not described as a specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language AIS provides English Language Learner (ELL) services as part of its ESL Services to support students learning English as a second language. The ESL program is designed to provide individualized instruction and support to help students improve their English language skills. AIS notes that many students come from non-English speaking backgrounds and may need additional support to master English. ESL specialists work with students to ensure progress toward required curricular expectations. ESL/ELL services are integrated within the AIS Inclusion Services framework.	English as an additional language The SZPAB Key Information page does not publicly disclose any English as an Additional Language (EAL) provisions.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Counselling Services at AIS emphasizes that mental health involves more than the absence of illness and includes the development of self-esteem, confidence, empathy, positive peer relationships, coping skills, and adaptability. Mental health activities are designed to promote positive well-being because it is crucial to learning and achievement. The counselors are fully certified to provide confidential individual and group sessions, as well as counseling-related programs. The mission is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment that fosters holistic development and well-being. Counseling aims to support students in achieving both academic and personal success.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through Health & Safety provisions, including daily homeroom monitoring of academic, social and emotional development and an Inclusion Team with counselors and nurses to support student wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding AIS has a Student Protection Policy that prioritizes safeguarding by protecting students from maltreatment and ensuring their safety. The policy defines roles such as the Child Protection Coordinator and mandates that all staff and volunteers are mandated reporters of suspected maltreatment. The policy enforces a zero-tolerance approach toward maltreatment and requires reporting to authorities as applicable. Concerns must be reported to the CPC and, where required, to the ADEK Child Protection Unit (CPU) within 24 hours. The policy aligns with UAE laws including Wadeema and related child protection regulations.	Safeguarding Safeguarding is central to the school's policies: all staff have a pastoral duty to protect children and safeguarding guidelines, including child protection provisions, are outlined in Health & Safety.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The AIS operates two contemporary campuses in MBZ City and Abu Dhabi City, with a third campus planned for Saadiyat. AIS has approximately 3,500 students across its two locations. The campus features a well-stocked library, a spacious theatre, vibrant play zones, a sparkling science laboratory, and fully equipped sports grounds. AIS provides dedicated spaces on campus for co-curricular activities.	Facilities overview The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys occupies a single building with shared grounds and serves students from Pre-K through Grade 12. The campus includes a canteen, two sports halls, two swimming pools, five science laboratories, clinics, and prayer rooms, plus a spacious outdoor field. Indoor facilities include green screen studios, LEGO innovation spaces, digital music suites, and a high IT infrastructure to support a one-to-one iPad program, with learning support suites. The school also has two libraries and a variety of outdoor spaces for recreation and athletics.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities AIS offers a range of sports teams that include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. Varsity level teams compete against other schools in the region. The teams have won championships over the years. The campus includes fully equipped sports grounds to support physical education and training.	Sports facilities The campus provides two indoor sports halls for a range of indoor activities. There are two swimming pools for aquatic programs and competitive swimming. Outdoor facilities include a five-lane running track, an outdoor football pitch, and basketball courts for team sports. Additional recreational features include a climbing apparatus and a skateboard park that support physical education and active play.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The AIS campuses feature a well-stocked library and a spacious theatre. There is a sparkling science laboratory on campus. There are vibrant play zones and other dedicated spaces on campus to support the broader curriculum. Two contemporary campuses host the full academic program, with a third campus planned for Saadiyat.	Academic facilities Five science laboratories form part of the science wing, enabling hands-on experiments across disciplines. The campus includes two libraries to support reading, research, and study. Indoor facilities include green screen studios, LEGO innovation spaces, and digital music suites to support creative and media projects. A high IT infrastructure underpins a one-to-one iPad program, and dedicated learning support suites provide small-group help for students who need extra assistance.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities AIS offers a broad suite of co- and extra-curricular activities with dedicated spaces on campus. Sports and varsity teams include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field, with regional competitions and championships. Theatrical productions provide opportunities for acting, set design, and stage management, with public performances and regional recognition. Visual arts, science and engineering clubs, robotics, sustainability initiatives, and life skills programs broaden student learning. A community service program engages students in local volunteering.	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a wide variety of extra curricular activities to address different interests and enrich student experiences. The secondary enrichment program supports graduation and university placement. The Student Council provides opportunities for student leadership and involvement in school development, and SZPAB sports teams regularly participate in athletic events as part of the school's competitive program.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History AIS was founded in 1982 by Mrs. Jihan Nasr as a private, fully licensed coeducational K-12 school operating in a villa. In 1992 AIS opened its Abu Dhabi Campus, and a formal Parent Committee was established to involve parents in governance. By the 1990s the school had grown to over 300 students and expanded to two villas. In 2005, under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, AIS received praise for academic excellence while integrating sustainability and inclusion. AIS later opened the MBZ Campus in 2015, and today the school serves students and staff from more than 70 nationalities across two campuses, with a third campus planned on Al Saadiyat.	History The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys (SZPAB) opened in 2015 in downtown Abu Dhabi to continue the legacy of The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Girls, which was established in 2000 to fulfill the vision of the late President, H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. SZPA comprises The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Girls (SZPAG) and The Sheikh Zayed Private Academy for Boys (SZPAB), and promotes a blended curriculum that emphasizes Emirati identity within an international framework. The founding mission centers on developing Arabic literacy and knowledge of UAE values as core guiding principles for both schools. The campus is designed to accommodate around 1,400 students and features facilities that support technology-enabled learning. Ownership and management are provided by Al Ain Educational Investments, which oversees SZPA.
Community	Community AIS has an international community with students and staff from around 60 nationalities across its two campuses in MBZ City and Abu Dhabi City. The AIS family emphasizes ongoing engagement with parents and the wider community through a formal Parent Committee and a Student Council, guiding decisions and representing parents at events and external evaluations. The school hosts a range of community and cultural events, including Emirati Women's Day workshops, the Annual University Fair, and the Student Council Presidential Debate, as well as activities such as UAE Civil Aviation Day and visits from authorities. These programs reflect a commitment to inclusion, service, and civic learning within the school community.	Community SZPAB serves a largely Emirati student body, with about 95% of students being Emirati. Students develop leadership through the Student Council and participate in community service activities with organizations such as the Red Crescent. The school offers a broad range of activities—including clubs, sports, arts, Qur'an Recitation, and enrichment programs—with international travel opportunities available. An Arabic-language enrichment Arabi program was launched to strengthen Arabic from KG1 to Grade 12.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Committee is an official body established to involve AIS parents in school governance, with origins dating back to the early years of the school when the first classroom session in 1982 encouraged parent engagement. The Committee comprises a core body of permanent members and a volunteer roster, and parents can participate as Volunteers or Members, with roles including attending meetings, supervising events, and supporting school initiatives. The Committee represents all parents at official school events, external evaluation visits, and other required meetings, providing regular communication and feedback to the administration. Parents can apply to join the Committee through the AIS portal, and the group coordinates outings, events, and curriculum-related activities such as Career Days and chaperoned trips. The Policy for the Parent Committee formalizes its governance, responsibilities, and relationship with the school.	Parent teacher association The SZPAB parent engagement operates through the ParentPoint online portal, which provides parents with access to their child's activities and school information. A Student/Parent Handbook outlines expectations and communication channels for families, and weekly emails plus Instagram updates keep families informed. Public materials indicate parent involvement is supported through volunteering and participation in school events coordinated via the ParentPoint system. The school also runs community service campaigns in partnership with Emirates Red Crescent, offering opportunities for student and parent participation in service initiatives. While a standalone PTA page is not publicly described, these channels constitute the formal framework for parent–school collaboration. Finally, student leadership opportunities and parent participation are integrated into the school's broader mission of honoring the past and educating for the future.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers science and engineering programs with science and engineering clubs to foster student inquiry. The robotics program teaches programming, problem-solving, and teamwork and participates in regional and national competitions. Students engage in hands-on projects and experiments through science and engineering activities.	Academic & intellectual SZPAB offers a standards-based American-MOЕ blended curriculum. The curriculum combines the American Massachusetts State Common Core Curriculum with the UAE Ministry of Education Curriculum, and includes MAP-based assessment in reading, language, math, and science. The school provides an Advanced Placement (AP) program designated by the College Board.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Theatrical productions provide opportunities to act, design sets, and manage stages; productions are well-known for their high quality and have won regional and national awards. The visual arts program covers drawing, painting, ceramics, and sculpture, and students showcase their work in exhibitions and shows throughout the year. Dedicated spaces at the campus support these activities.	Arts & creative —
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language —
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies AIS runs sports and varsity teams, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field, with teams competing regionally. The school hosts theatrical productions and a visual arts program as part of the co- and extra-curriculars, offering opportunities to perform, create, and exhibit. The programs emphasize creativity, community involvement, and skill development.	Social & hobbies —
Community & service	Community & service The Act & Impact Community Service Program engages students in local and global service projects that foster compassion, responsibility, integrity, and courage. Local service projects address issues in students' daily lives, while global projects involve partnerships with international organizations. Students log their service in the AIS Act & Impact Log and may be considered for the AIS Citizenship Award.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The Student Council represents the student body and links between students and school leaders, teaching older students to participate in healthy debate. The Act & Impact Program also fosters leadership through service and student-driven initiatives.	Leadership & professional —
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports teams include basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. Life skills programs include cooking classes, financial literacy workshops, and first aid training. Dedicated spaces at the campus support co- and extra-curricular activities.	Lifestyle & wellbeing —
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Two modern languages are studied as part of AIS's IBDP. The IBDP is available at the MBZ campus for Grades 11 and 12. Arabic is taught under the UAE Ministry Curriculum for Arabic subjects.	Language provision —
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards 87-94 includes Outstanding Inclusion Program; 100% University Placements across UK, USA, and other locations.	Awards The school has been rated 'Outstanding' in the ADEK Irtiqaa inspection program and received an 'Outstanding' National Identity mark in 2022-2023.
Accreditations	Accreditations Band A ADEK rating; ADEK acknowledges high performance and governance.	Accreditations The school has CIS and NEASC accreditation and is recognized by the College Board as designated to offer AP courses.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Step 1: Admission for the 2025-2026 academic year is currently open for MBZ Campus only. The MBZ Campus offers the American curriculum from pre-school to Grade 12, with Grades 11 and 12 offering the High School Diploma, Advanced Placement (AP), or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). 2. Step 2: Applications are processed on a first-come-first-serve basis, with priority admissions given to children of AIS faculty members, siblings of current AIS students, former AIS students, and other eligible applicants. If there are no vacancies in the grade level, the applicant will be placed on a waiting list, and the school will contact the parents or guardians if a seat becomes available. 3. Step 3: New applicants to AIS: admission is open for pre-school to Grade 11; Grade 12 admissions are not accepted. Applicants must meet the age requirements for the grade to be applied to (e.g., Pre-school 3 years, Kindergarten 4 years, Prep 5 years, Grade 1 6 years) by September 1 of the admission year. Exceptions are not made for age when stated and admissions criteria will be considered. 4. Step 4: Attend a meeting with the School Registrar. For UAE-based applicants, meetings are held Monday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM, and Fridays, 8:00 AM–11:30 AM. Applicants outside the UAE should email admissions to schedule an online meeting. 5. Step 5: After the meeting, applicants attend a placement test or interview, scheduled by the Admissions Office. UAE-based applicants will receive an email with the date and time and should arrive on time; applicants outside the UAE will receive a link for the online test/interview. Enrollment follows acceptance: a Letter of Acceptance is issued, and enrollment must be completed within one week. A non-refundable AED 1,500 registration fee is payable at enrollment; bus service enrollment can be arranged at enrollment, and additional enrollment documents (e.g., Emirates IDs, transfer documents) may be required.	Admissions 1. Submit an online inquiry through Apply now. The Admissions Department will contact you within 24 hours of receipt. You may arrange a school tour by contacting Admissions; office hours are 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM Monday to Thursday and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday. Phone: +971 2 203 3333 Ext 311 or Direct +971 2 203 3311. 2. Complete the online application with all required documents to proceed with registration. Incomplete applications cannot be processed. Required documents include Health Record Form; Recommendation Form (to be completed and stamped by the student's current or most recent school); copies of student's passport; Emirates ID; copies of parent or guardian's passport and residence visa; copies of family entry (for Nationals); birth certificate (attested for non-nationals); three passport-size photos; immunization card; copies of water and electricity bill showing premises ID for ADEK registration; copies of last two years' report cards. 3. The Admissions Department will schedule assessments. Pre-K to KG2 involve group or one-to-one readiness interviews; Grade 1 has an interview to assess English and Arabic literacy and numeracy. Grades 2-5 include MAP-based assessments in reading, language, math, and Arabic; Grades 6-12 use MAP assessments plus interviews and an Admissions questionnaire. Online registration opens in November for the next calendar year. 4. If seats are available, an offer letter is sent within one week of the assessment. The offer is followed by signing and payment of a 5% registration fee to secure the seat. The student's file is then forwarded to ADEK for review; enrollment occurs once ADEK confirms registration.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist If a grade has no vacancies, applicants are placed on a waiting list. The Admissions Office contacts guardians if a seat becomes available.	Waitlist —
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