Abu Dhabi International School vs Virginia International Private School

	A Abu Dhabi International School Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates	V Virginia International Private School Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 26,275 - 50,350	Fees / year AED 27,880 - 45,230
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
Pupils	Pupils 3,500	Pupils 1,312
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size 15
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 Virginia International Private School is located in Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi, in Khalifa City B (MFW-31). The P.O. Box is 7732. The area is a residential neighbourhood with convenient road access, reachable via 33 Street and Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road and near 7 Street Shakhbout City.
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 Pre-KG through Grade 12, making it an all-through institution. It currently accepts students from Kindergarten through Grade 12, and has been an all-through school since 2021.
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 The school is co-educational (mixed gender).
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 The school has a total enrolment of 1,312 students. Emirati students number 1,158, making Emirati the largest nationality group; other represented nationalities include Jordanian and Yemeni. There are 71 students of determination.
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 Virginia International Private School follows the ADEK Inclusion Policy (2024). It staffs an inclusion framework with a Head of Inclusion, an inclusion team, and inclusion assistants to support students with Additional Learning Needs, including those identified as Students of Determination. The school also provides Student Services to assist pupils with information, guidance and non-academic enquiries.
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 operates within the UAE educational framework and offers an American-based curriculum with NEASC accreditation; it does not have a formal country affiliation beyond its American curriculum positioning.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is stated. AIS emphasizes diversity and inclusion across a multicultural student body.	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation stated; Islamic education is provided as part of the UAE curriculum where applicable, with emphasis on Islamic values and UAE culture.
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 typically runs from 8:00 to 16:00. On Fridays, attendance commonly ends earlier (about 12:30), per local school practices observed in Abu Dhabi listings.
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 A school bus service is provided by Emirates Transport. Buses are DoT-approved, with staff trained in first aid and safety; the school coordinates transportation through Emirates Transport and a dedicated bus coordinator.
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 Fees - Registration fee: 5% of the annual tuition fee, payable after an offer is accepted and deductible from the Term 3 tuition balance. - Re‑registration fee (to hold a place for the following academic year): 5% of the annual tuition fee, payable at re‑enrolment and deductible from the Term 3 tuition balance. Tuition fees (per grade, term breakdown and total) — amounts in AED - Pre‑KG: Total tuition AED 27,880 — Term 1: AED 11,152; Term 2: AED 8,364; Term 3: AED 8,364. Book fee: AED 1,817. Uniform: AED 529. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - KG1: Total tuition AED 27,880 — Term 1: AED 11,152; Term 2: AED 8,364; Term 3: AED 8,364. Book fee: AED 1,817. Uniform: AED 529. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - KG2: Total tuition AED 27,880 — Term 1: AED 11,152; Term 2: AED 8,364; Term 3: AED 8,364. Book fee: AED 1,910. Uniform: AED 529. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 1: Total tuition AED 32,530 — Term 1: AED 13,012; Term 2: AED 9,759; Term 3: AED 9,759. Book fee: AED 2,506. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 2: Total tuition AED 33,660 — Term 1: AED 13,464; Term 2: AED 10,098; Term 3: AED 10,098. Book fee: AED 2,525. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 3: Total tuition AED 34,790 — Term 1: AED 13,916; Term 2: AED 10,437; Term 3: AED 10,437. Book fee: AED 2,881. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 4: Total tuition AED 35,930 — Term 1: AED 14,372; Term 2: AED 10,779; Term 3: AED 10,779. Book fee: AED 2,982. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 5: Total tuition AED 37,180 — Term 1: AED 14,872; Term 2: AED 11,154; Term 3: AED 11,154. Book fee: AED 2,965. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 6: Total tuition AED 38,310 — Term 1: AED 15,324; Term 2: AED 11,493; Term 3: AED 11,493. Book fee: AED 2,939. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 7: Total tuition AED 39,440 — Term 1: AED 15,776; Term 2: AED 11,832; Term 3: AED 11,832. Book fee: AED 2,995. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 8: Total tuition AED 40,580 — Term 1: AED 16,232; Term 2: AED 12,174; Term 3: AED 12,174. Book fee: AED 2,978. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 9: Total tuition AED 41,820 — Term 1: AED 16,728; Term 2: AED 12,546; Term 3: AED 12,546. Book fee: AED 3,045. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 10: Total tuition AED 42,960 — Term 1: AED 17,184; Term 2: AED 12,888; Term 3: AED 12,888. Book fee: AED 3,707. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 11: Total tuition AED 44,100 — Term 1: AED 17,640; Term 2: AED 13,230; Term 3: AED 13,230. Book fee: AED 4,035. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. - Grade 12: Total tuition AED 45,230 — Term 1: AED 18,092; Term 2: AED 13,569; Term 3: AED 13,569. Book fee: AED 4,085. Uniform: AED 556. Bus (optional): AED 5,000. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition is split into three termly instalments. Term lengths are: Term 1 (Sep–Dec, 4 months), Term 2 (Jan–Mar, 3 months), Term 3 (Apr–Jun, 3 months). - Standard due dates for term invoices: Term 1 due 1 August; Term 2 due 1 December; Term 3 due 1 March. A full‑year invoice may be raised on request with a due date of 1 August. Registration fee is due within seven days of offer acceptance; re‑registration fees are collected at the re‑enrolment time (key re‑registration date given as 1 May in the fee policy). - Late / non‑payment process: the school issues up to three consecutive warning notices (at least one week apart), may suspend a student for up to three days for late payment (only once per term after warnings), and may withhold report cards, transfer certificates or re‑enrolment until outstanding fees are settled. Boarding - Boarding provision is not listed in the fee policy or fee schedule; there are no boarding fees included in the published fee schedule. Other costs and optional charges - Book fees: charged per grade as listed above and payable in full with the Term 1 invoice (due by 1 August). Book fees are refundable if written notice is provided at least two weeks prior to the start of the new academic year and the items have not been used. - Uniform: listed per grade above; uniform fees will not be refunded if the items have been used, altered, or are outside original packaging. Uniforms are collected after payment. - Transport (bus): standard bus charge AED 5,000 (optional). - External examination fees and any extra‑curricular activities outside school hours are charged separately and are not included in tuition. Specific exam fees are published separately. Refund information - Registration fee for new students is refundable if parents provide written notification at least two weeks before the start of the new academic year. Re‑registration fee is refundable if written notification is provided on or before 30 June. - Pro‑rata retention policy when a student leaves during term: if a student attends up to part of the first week and then discontinues without sufficient written notice, the school may retain up to 5% of the annual tuition (equivalent to the registration/re‑registration fee). Attendance of one to three weeks: school retains one month's tuition plus registration; attendance over three up to six weeks: two months' tuition plus registration; attendance over six weeks in a term: the full term fee plus registration. Books and uniform are refundable only under the conditions described above. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods: Aldar Live Mobile App, online payment link, bank transfer, cheque or credit card. Cash payments are not accepted. Parents are liable for bank charges on returned cheques. - 0% instalment options: interest‑free credit card instalment plans are available through partner banks (examples listed include FAB, ADIB and ENBD) to spread payments monthly. Notes and exclusions - Tuition figures do not include uniform, food/canteen charges, transport, examination fees, or extra‑curricular activities outside school hours; these are billed separately as outlined above.
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 Students must wear the school uniform at all times; a PE uniform is worn on PE days. For cold days, a thermal undershirt may be worn under the uniform; hair should be tidy and tied back if long, and girls may wear an abaya over the uniform; makeup is not permitted. The uniform is available from Zaks Store.
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 The canteen serves hot, fresh meals daily and offers fresh and nutritious options, including salads, pulses, fruits, and desserts. There are two dining halls and lunch is supervised; the program emphasizes healthy eating.
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 Virginia International Private School is owned by Aldar Properties and operates under Aldar Education, Aldar's education division. Aldar acquired VIPS in July 2023 as part of expanding its education portfolio; the school is NEASC-accredited and ADEK rated Good. This places VIPS within Aldar's network of schools.
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 The school offers an American-based curriculum.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression The school provides access to SATs and is a College Board registered member, enabling access to universities across the UAE and around the world.
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 Virginia International Private School (VIPS) provides a student-centered environment that supports academic, extracurricular, and personal goals while promoting civility, respect, integrity, and equity. The VIPS Learner Profile defines dispositions such as Empathetic, Honest, Respectful, Responsible, Citizens, Communicators, Creative, and Collaborative to guide social-emotional development. The School's behavior policy aims to promote student well-being and happiness and uses restorative approaches, including a Restorative Reflective Report Card to support self-regulation. Students' rights and responsibilities emphasise a safe, inclusive community where individuals are treated with respect and fairness. Student life and activities, including co-curricular, sports, and arts, support personal growth and collaboration as part of social-emotional learning.
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) Virginia International Private School follows Aldar Education's Inclusion Policy, which identifies Additional Learning Needs (ALN) including Students of Determination, and recognises Multi-language learners and Gifted and Talented students. The policy establishes an Inclusion leadership structure with a Head of Inclusion, an Inclusion Teacher per cycle, and Inclusion Assistants, with additional Individual Assistants where needed, and requires annual staff training on inclusion and safeguarding. Admissions for ALN are prioritised, require sharing relevant assessments, provide accommodations for admissions assessments, and consider appropriate placement, with an ‘Inability to Accommodate' notification if the school cannot meet a student's needs. The policy calls for a multi-disciplinary approach, involving families and other professionals to identify needs and coordinate support, including transitions between settings. It also supports Universal Design for Learning and differentiated instruction to ensure equitable access for learners with ALN, multi-language learners, and Gifted and Talented students.
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 school describes itself as offering an American-based curriculum with western teachers. There is no explicit EAL program publicly described; EAL considerations are addressed within the Inclusion Policy's coverage of multi-language learners. The Aldar Inclusion Policy explicitly includes multi-language learners as a group requiring support and inclusion. The policy advocates a range of teaching strategies and Universal Design for Learning to support diverse learners, including those with language needs. It also emphasises parental and inter-agency involvement in identifying, assessing, and supporting learners with language needs to ensure equitable access to education. EAL provision specifics beyond the inclusive framework are not publicly disclosed on VIPS materials.
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 Safeguarding and child protection are central to promoting students' mental wellbeing, with a zero-tolerance approach to maltreatment and a duty of care for all staff toward pupils. The safeguarding framework commits to creating safe and supportive environments and to educating stakeholders about safeguarding issues, including digital spaces. The policy states that all students have access to support and counselling when needed. Safeguarding education is integrated across the curriculum and regularly updated to reflect emerging risks, including technology-related concerns. The network uses the CPOMS safeguarding platform for risk-informed safeguarding, with confidentiality strictly maintained and data shared only with authorised individuals.
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 Aldar Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, with safeguarding and child protection as a central responsibility for all adults and a zero-tolerance stance toward maltreatment. Policies require a positive safeguarding culture, clear whistleblowing procedures, and confidential reporting channels to protect students from harm in both physical and digital spaces. The safeguarding framework assigns roles such as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSLs, supported by a safeguarding committee and specialized staff (e.g., mental health leads, social workers) to coordinate safeguarding activities. Staff, parents, and students are empowered to raise concerns, and there are formal liaison mechanisms with external agencies (regulators, police, and child protection authorities) to support safeguarding. The policy is publicly communicated through the school framework and includes a student-friendly version to ensure understanding by all stakeholders.
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 Two shaded playgrounds are designed for KG1 and KG2. KG1 has spacious classrooms designed and equipped for that age group. The school includes a spacious indoor PE room and an Imagination room for active and imaginative play. A library supports early literacy and a well-stocked array of music rooms and art rooms along with a gym. A new building expansion adds 3 labs, 13 classrooms, a learning hub, a multi-purpose hall and a semi-Olympic swimming pool.
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 school has an indoor PE room for physical education. There is a gym on campus. A semi-Olympic swimming pool is part of the new building expansion. The multi-purpose hall is available for indoor sports and events.
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 The school has well-resourced classrooms with smart board technology and access to online learning materials. It uses American textbooks designed to engage students. Native English teachers provide instruction for core subjects. A well managed program delivery supports classroom lessons and a rich assortment of learning materials for teachers and students. The campus includes a well stocked library, music rooms, art rooms and a gym, and STEAM is integrated across the program with high coordination across grades.
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 extracurricular program offers a wide range of offerings designed for the overall development of students. Individual and group projects are developed in a student-centered model with opportunities for whole-school and community events throughout the year. The program mirrors the academic program and emphasizes STEAM programming to support student success.
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 Virginia International Private School opened in 2015 in Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi, during the UAE's Year of Innovation. The school offers an American-based curriculum and aims to foster a learning environment that emphasizes collaboration and inquiry. It is NEASC-accredited and ADEK rated Good, reflecting recognized quality within the UAE's education system. In July 2023, Aldar Education acquired VIPS as part of its expansion of its education portfolio, integrating VIPS into the Aldar Education group's Abu Dhabi offering.
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 VIPS aims to create a student-centered environment that promotes civility, respect, integrity, and equity, with involvement in activities helping students form lasting friendships and career connections. General Events include Annual Day, Sports Day, a Christmas Carnival, and other cultural activities, providing opportunities for student and family participation. Parents are encouraged to participate as volunteers in daily activities, with roles such as guest readers, library support, or classroom presenters, and opportunities vary by interest and availability. Virginia is a College Board SAT Testing Center, reflecting its engagement with the wider academic community.
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 There is no formally named PTA described on VIPS's site; instead the school actively invites parents to participate in daily activities and volunteer roles. Volunteer opportunities include guest readers, library support, and classroom presentations, with participation varying by parent interest and availability. The school notes that active parent and community participation can improve student outcomes. Large events such as Annual Day, Sports Day, and Christmas Carnival provide structured contexts for parent engagement. VIPS also provides a Parent Student Handbook and other policies to guide parent involvement. The College Board SAT Testing Center status illustrates broader community ties and access to external educational resources.
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 Virginia International Private School follows an American-based curriculum and is NEASC accredited, based in Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi. ADEK rated Good. The school provides access to SATs and is a College Board registered member. The program emphasizes a STEM-focused approach within its curriculum and serves students from Pre-KG through Grade 12.
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 Together with community partners, VIPS is creating a better world through education.
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 Virginia International Private School develops young learners into community leaders. The school promotes leadership as an essential value alongside character building. It aims to develop leadership, academic excellence, and social skills.
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 Facilities include two new shaded playgrounds for KG1 and KG2; spacious classrooms; an indoor PE room; and a library. The Imagination room supports imaginative play, and the school uses positive reinforcement with character education certificates. It aims to create a safe and stimulating environment.
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 Not disclosed on the site
Accreditations	Accreditations Band A ADEK rating; ADEK acknowledges high performance and governance.	Accreditations NEASC accreditation; ADEK rating Good (2024/2025)
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. Application and initial assessment. Admission is based on an informal assessment of your child and seat vacancy. The school records the date and time of each parent's submission of registration forms and documents to guide placement. Submissions are expected in person at the school. 2. Required documents. In-person submission is required for a completed and signed student application form and copies of the requested documents. These include copies of both parents' passports with UAE residence for non-Emirati parents, a copy of the child's passport with UAE residence for non-Emirati students, immunization records, a copy of the child's UAE ID (both sides) or a copy of the UAE ID application, and a copy of the birth certificate or an acceptable birth document. For students transferring from another country, the previous marks report is required; for transfers within the UAE, the transfer certificate and report card are also required. Birth and transfer documents from outside the UAE must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Health, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the embassy of the issuing country; for births issued in UAE, Canada, USA, Western Europe, Australia or New Zealand, attestation requirements for the transfer certificate differ. Two recent color photographs of the child (4 × 6 cm) are required. 3. Age placement and Year/Grade system. The school provides an age-placement guide that explains the difference between the Year System (Foundation Stage 1 through Year 13) and the Grade System (Pre-KG through Grade 12). The guidance helps align placement with national and ADEK expectations when moving between curricula. Parents and students are advised to review the age-placement information for specific mappings and criteria. 4. Transfer considerations. If transferring from another school, the transfer certificate and report card are required documents for enrollment. Attestation requirements apply as noted for birth and transfer certificates, with certain exceptions based on country of issue. The process uses the documented dates and times to determine appropriate placement and ensure correct grade/year alignment.
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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