Al Nahda National Schools vs GEMS Cambridge International School Abu Dhabi

	A Al Nahda National Schools Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates	G GEMS Cambridge International School Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year AED 17,730 - 33,020	Fees / year AED 23,060 - 40,340
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Boys School, Girls School	Type —
Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum, American Curriculum	Curriculum British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 5,800	Pupils 3,675
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 19
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1983	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service —
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Al Nahda National Schools are located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The schools operate two campuses: the Girls' School and the Boys' School. The mailing address is P.O. Box 815, Abu Dhabi. The schools are licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education.	Location The GEMS Cambridge International School Abu Dhabi is located at Bawabat Al Sharq, Baniyas City, Abu Dhabi. It sits near Mohammed Bin Zayed City and the Khalifa City B and C areas, with easy access to major roads and nearby amenities. The campus is set in a residential/commercial neighbourhood in southern Abu Dhabi.
Stages	Stages Two campuses serve different year groups. Girls in Kindergarten to Grade 3 attend the Girls' School; girls in Grades 4-12 also attend the Girls' School. Boys in Grades 4-12 attend the Boys' School.	Stages The curriculum runs from Foundation Stage through to Year 13 (ages approximately 3 to 18). Foundation Stage 1 covers ages 3–5, followed by Primary (ages 6–14) and Secondary (Year 9–13) as the school progresses through Key Stages 1–4 and into post-16 options.
School type	School type ANNS is a private, fee-paying day school with two single-sex campuses (the Girls' School and the Boys' School). There are no boarding facilities listed.	School type The school is co-educational and operates as a day school. It is part of the GEMS Cambridge International Schools network and follows the British curriculum.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix The school represents over 90 nationalities, with the largest groups being Indian, Emirati, and Pakistani. Total enrollment is in the mid-3,000s. Approximately 60% of students are international, and about 40% are local/Arab.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support The school provides support for students with learning difficulties. It also offers programs for gifted and talented students.	Additional learning support The school maintains an inclusive learning environment and emphasizes SEN support as part of its core provision. In 2025, the institution was noted to support a substantial number of Students of Determination.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no formal country affiliation listed. The school operates in the UAE and offers American and British curricula.	Country affiliation The school is a British overseas school, affiliated with the United Kingdom through its British curriculum.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No formal religious affiliation is listed.	Religious affiliation There is no formal religious affiliation declared by the school.
School day structure	School day structure The administration offices operate Sunday to Thursday from 8:00 to 15:00 and Friday from 8:00 to 12:00. The site does not publish fixed start and end times for the school day.	School day structure School timings are approximately 7:30 am to 3:15 pm Monday–Thursday, and 7:30 am to 1:00 pm on Fridays.
Bus service details	Bus service details ANNS offers a school transportation service. Sign up for transport is completed through the re-registration process. If pickup details change, guardians must update them; only listed guardians may collect a child. A bus supervisor oversees pickups and drop-offs.	Bus service details Transport is outsourced to School Transport Services LLC (BBT). The service provides home-to-school transport for eligible students with an annual fee of AED 5,000 and termly payments; there are designated pickup points and the service operates for 10 months of the academic year.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and registration fees - A non‑refundable registration/seat‑reservation fee is charged on offer acceptance; the school applies a registration/re‑registration charge equal to 5% of the annual tuition fee (adjustable and then deducted against the tuition invoice). Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts in AED) - Kindergarten 2 (age 4): AED 17,730 (this total comprises Tuition AED 15,650 plus Books AED 2,080). - Kindergarten 3 (age 5): AED 17,730. - Grade 1 (age 6): AED 21,910. - Grade 2 (age 7): AED 21,910. - Grade 3 (age 8): AED 22,000. - Grade 4 (age 9): AED 23,030. - Grade 5 (age 10): AED 23,030. - Grade 6 (age 11): AED 23,030. - Grade 7 (age 12): AED 25,180. - Grade 8 (age 13): AED 25,180. - Grade 9 (age 14): AED 30,060. - Grade 10 (age 15): AED 33,020. - Grade 11 (age 16): AED 33,020. - Grade 12 (age 17): AED 33,020. Per‑term breakdown (three instalments) - The school issues tuition invoices in three termly instalments. The per‑term amounts below are shown as equal, termly instalments (annual fee divided by three) for reference. See the annual amounts above for full‑year totals. - Kindergarten 2 / Kindergarten 3: AED 5,910 per term. - Grade 1 / Grade 2: AED 7,303 per term. - Grade 3: AED 7,333 per term. - Grade 4 / Grade 5 / Grade 6: AED 7,677 per term. - Grade 7 / Grade 8: AED 8,393 per term. - Grade 9: AED 10,020 per term. - Grade 10 / Grade 11 / Grade 12: AED 11,007 per term. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed on a term basis and payments are expected according to the school's term calendar (three instalments across the academic year). Term invoices are issued at the start of each term and parents must settle the invoices or provide the required post‑dated cheques / payment arrangements by the stated due dates. - The registration/re‑registration charge (5% of annual tuition) is payable on offer acceptance and is adjusted against the tuition invoice for the year. - Outstanding fees from a previous year must be settled before re‑registration will be accepted. Boarding fees - Al Nahda National Schools operate as day schools. There is no boarding or hostel provision; all students are day pupils. Other costs and typical additional charges - School transport: typical annual charge AED 4,500 (transport availability and final route fees are confirmed at registration). - Books and learning resources: typical range AED 910 to AED 2,080 per year depending on grade; for early years the prospectus itemises a separate books charge (see K2 breakdown above). Digital learning resources are included within tuition and are processed as part of re‑registration. - Uniform: a typical uniform charge is shown around AED 250 (varies by campus/grade and by required items). - Examination / external assessment fees and optional activity charges: these are charged separately where applicable (year‑group and subject dependent). Refund information - The registration/re‑registration charge is treated as non‑refundable and is adjusted against tuition when the place is accepted. Security deposits (where required by other institutions) are normally refundable on leaving after due adjustments; standard ADEK‑aligned refund practices apply to deposits and fee refunds. Fee payment options - Accepted payment methods include bank transfer, cheque and cash; the school also provides online payment capability for registration and invoices via the parent portal. Payment by card or instalment facilities may be available through the school's payment channels or approved third‑party providers — confirm with the school finance office when arranging payment. Notes - Fees differ by campus and by curriculum offered (American vs British routes); annual fee levels above are those published for the current academic year and are shown by year group.	Fee details Application / Admission Fees - New admissions: a non-transferable fee equal to 5% of the Annual tuition fee is payable on acceptance of the Offer Letter and confirmation of enrolment. This fee is adjustable against the first term tuition once the student joins. The 5% acceptance fee is refundable only if written notice of withdrawal is given before the start of the academic year, in line with ADEK policy. Re-enrolment / Registration Fees - Re-enrolment: to secure a place for the next academic year parents are required to pay a re‑enrollment fee equal to 5% of the next year's tuition. This fee is non-refundable but will be adjusted against the first term fees. The school also states the registration fee remains non‑refundable. Tuition fees (Academic year 2025–2026) — full detail (Annual and per-term breakdown in AED) - FS 1 / Pre‑KG: Annual AED 23,060 — Term 1 AED 9,224; Term 2 AED 6,918; Term 3 AED 6,918. - FS 2 / KG1: Annual AED 23,730 — Term 1 AED 9,492; Term 2 AED 7,119; Term 3 AED 7,119. - Year 1 / KG2: Annual AED 28,430 — Term 1 AED 11,372; Term 2 AED 8,529; Term 3 AED 8,529. - Year 2 / Grade 1: Annual AED 28,430 — Term 1 AED 11,372; Term 2 AED 8,529; Term 3 AED 8,529. - Year 3 / Grade 2: Annual AED 30,950 — Term 1 AED 12,380; Term 2 AED 9,285; Term 3 AED 9,285. - Year 4 / Grade 3: Annual AED 30,950 — Term 1 AED 12,380; Term 2 AED 9,285; Term 3 AED 9,285. - Year 5 / Grade 4: Annual AED 33,240 — Term 1 AED 13,296; Term 2 AED 9,972; Term 3 AED 9,972. - Year 6 / Grade 5: Annual AED 33,240 — Term 1 AED 13,296; Term 2 AED 9,972; Term 3 AED 9,972. - Year 7 / Grade 6: Annual AED 35,640 — Term 1 AED 14,256; Term 2 AED 10,692; Term 3 AED 10,692. - Year 8 / Grade 7: Annual AED 35,640 — Term 1 AED 14,256; Term 2 AED 10,692; Term 3 AED 10,692. - Year 9 / Grade 8: Annual AED 37,940 — Term 1 AED 15,176; Term 2 AED 11,382; Term 3 AED 11,382. - Year 10 / Grade 9: Annual AED 37,940 — Term 1 AED 15,176; Term 2 AED 11,382; Term 3 AED 11,382. - Year 11 / Grade 10: Annual AED 39,200 — Term 1 AED 15,680; Term 2 AED 11,760; Term 3 AED 11,760. - Year 12 / Grade 11: Annual AED 40,340 — Term 1 AED 16,136; Term 2 AED 12,102; Term 3 AED 12,102. - Year 13 / Grade 12: Annual AED 40,340 — Term 1 AED 16,136; Term 2 AED 12,102; Term 3 AED 12,102. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition invoices are issued to the fee sponsor on record two months prior to the start of the academic year. Tuition fees are payable in advance of attendance and are due at the start of each term. Tuition payments can be paid in full or by term. Term deadlines are: on or before the 10th working day of August for Term 1, the 10th working day of December for Term 2, and the 10th working day of April for Term 3. Failure to pay may result in withholding of reports, suspension, or blocking re‑enrollment. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable: the school operates as a day school (no boarding provision). The school's published profile and school listings describe it as a co‑educational day school and give a day‑fee range consistent with the published annual tuition figures. Other costs and fees - School transport: Bright Bus Transport (BBT) provides the home‑to‑school service. Transport fees (All areas in Abu Dhabi): Annual AED 5,000 — Term 1 AED 2,000; Term 2 AED 1,500; Term 3 AED 1,500. Transport fees are charged for 10 months and must be paid before the start of the term; discontinuation can be made only at the end of a term; there is no refund for unexpired portions of a term and a AED 100 service charge applies for mid‑term discontinuation except at academic year end. Payment methods for transport include online payment via the provider, cash/credit card (Master/Visa) at the BBT counter in the school, cheque in favour of Bright Bus Transport, or standing order (auto debit) via the BBT counter. - Uniform: official school uniform is supplied through the school's supplier (Threads). A uniform guide and supplier information are provided and uniforms are purchased from the supplier; pricing for uniform items is handled by the supplier. - External examination fees: external exam entries (IGCSE/GCSE, AS, A Level, etc.) are charged separately from tuition. Examination fees vary by board, subject and unit; the school's 2025–2026 Exam Fees Booklet shows typical unit/subject charges (examples include many units at AED 300–350 and some subjects or practical/non‑exam assessments with higher charges up to around AED 800). Late and very late entry dates incur additional charges as set by the examination boards. Examination entry fees are invoiced and paid separately (payment at the fees counter is referenced). - Additional possible costs: charges may apply for school trips, optional extra‑curricular activities, consumables, specialist materials, replacement ID cards or lost property handling and other incidental items; these are not included in the published tuition and will be invoiced or charged as required. Examination entry fees and transport fees are explicitly listed as separate charges in school materials. Refunds and withdrawal policy (fees) - The registration fee is non‑refundable. Paid tuition fee refunds follow the Ministry/ADEK policy and are processed only after a written refund request is submitted to the school admissions office; refunds are issued to the original payee. The 5% new‑admission acceptance fee is refundable only if a parent gives notice of withdrawal before the beginning of the academic year (per ADEK policy). A written 30‑day notification is required for student withdrawals to allow processing of documentation. Non‑payment consequences include withholding of reports and blocking re‑enrollment. Fee payment options (what is explicitly offered) - FAB GEMS co‑branded / GEMS World credit card: the school publicises the FAB GEMS World / co‑branded credit card option to pay annual tuition in advance with possible discounts and benefits, and promotional payment plans (terms and conditions apply). - General tuition payment timing: tuition may be paid in full (advance) or at the start of each term as per the billing schedule. The school's admissions/fees pages reference online payment channels and school fee counters for related payments. Exam entry payments are made at the school fees counter per the Exam Fees Booklet. Transport payments are accepted online via the transport provider, by cash/credit card at the BBT counter in school, by cheque payable to Bright Bus Transport, or by standing order through the transport provider. Key documents and policies referenced (for the 2025–2026 year) - School tuition fee schedule and ADEK fee approval (2025–2026). - Exam Fees Booklet — External examination charges and entry deadlines (Academic Year 2025–2026). - Transport fee schedule and payment options (Bright Bus Transport). If you need these figures presented in another currency or formatted differently for your database, I have provided the full AED amounts and payment details above.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement The uniform is simple, smart and distinctive. Students are expected to wear their uniforms with pride. Uniforms are available from the school supplier, who attends to fabric quality, colour, individual measurements and prescribed style.
Food options	Food options —	Food options There is a School Canteen on site where healthy snacks and drinks are sold during break times. Hygiene and quality control of food are prioritized.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Trustees. It is licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education. It operates two campuses, the Girls' School and the Boys' School, and was established in 1983 as a private English‑medium school offering American and British programs. It holds accreditation from NEASC, CIS, ECIS, Cambridge International Examinations, Pearson Edexcel, and SAT. The Board's officers include Saeed Al Junaibi (General Manager and Director General), Amal Saeed Abdulla Al Junaibi (Information Technology Consultant), Basma Saeed Abdulla Naser Al Junaibi (Deputy General), Adnan Issa Abbas (Educational Consultant and Director General Assistant); the school's Principals are Salma Sidqi Eid (Girls School) and Ahlam Abou Radi (Boys School).	Governance and ownership The school is owned and operated by GEMS Education and forms part of the GEMS Cambridge International Schools network.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Al Nahda National Schools (ANNS) offer two international curricula on its Abu Dhabi campuses: the British Program aligned with the Cambridge International Curriculum and the American Program aligned with US standards. The curriculum encompasses Languages, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Information Technology, Islamic Studies, Physical Education, Music, Drama and Art, with English as the language of instruction. The Girls School site states kindergarten through grade 12, with the Primary division KG–Grade 6 and the Secondary division Grades 7–12, and notes that boys transfer to the Boys' campus after Grade 3. In the British Program, Cambridge IGCSE examinations are taken in Grades 9–10 with Arabic and Islamic Studies mandatory; students may choose from English (First/Second Language), English Literature, IT, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, History, Accounting, Business Studies, French, Urdu and Art & Design. Under the American Program, the curriculum aligns with the Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics, uses New Generation Standards for Science, and follows MOE standards for Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies, with Advanced Placement (AP) examinations available and Pearson Edexcel IAL offered for senior levels. ANNS uses English as the primary medium of instruction.	Curriculum details The school follows the National Curriculum for England and serves Foundation Stage 1 through Year 13. It is a British curriculum delivered in Abu Dhabi and is part of GEMS Cambridge International Schools. The curriculum is designed to support academic and personal development and is guided by GEMS' four core values: curiosity, integrity, innovation and resilience. It prepares students for the IGCSE in the secondary phase. The Secondary School covers Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 (Year 9 to Year 13), leading to GCSE and A-Level examinations. The school holds accreditations with Cambridge and Edexcel.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Academic results are strong, with outcomes above the UK national average. 16% of A-Level students achieved an A, and 78% achieved an A-B at A-Level. 30% of GCSE students achieved an A, and 77% achieved an A-B at GCSE. In the last four years, students have been accepted to 1,050 universities across 53 countries, including 66 of the world's top 100 universities.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression In the last four years, GEMS students have been accepted by 1,050 universities in 53 countries, including 66 of the world's top 100 universities.
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 Al Nahda National Schools place wellbeing at the heart of its learning environment. The Wellbeing section specifies a safe, caring atmosphere that supports the development of self-image and respect for self and others, and it promotes moral values such as respect, tolerance, integrity, compassion, equality and care as the basis of relationships. The school also emphasises holistic development through a Lifelong Learning framework that includes opportunities to develop 21st‑century skills and to provide support for students with learning difficulties, alongside encouragement for gifted and talented students. A pastoral and social support network, described by school leaders as ensuring students feel valued beyond academics, supports social–emotional growth. Leadership narratives highlight the aim of nurturing social and emotional intelligence as part of preparing students to be global citizens. Programs and activities beyond the classroom are used to foster resilience and personal development.	Social & emotional learning SEL is supported through an inclusive approach coordinated by Senior and Middle Leaders with the Student Support Team across the school, using a graduated response to learning. The provision includes Inclusion Assistants, Learning Support Assistants, in-house therapy services, SEN Teachers and Nurture Groups, Counsellors, Social Workers, and Intervention Groups, supported by the Student Support Centre. Individual learning needs are discussed in provision meetings with families and staff, with Individual Learning Plans (IEPs) used to tailor support where needed. The school emphasizes a healthy, safe and happy environment and provides guidance to help learners manage their behaviour and emotions so they can participate fully in learning. Learners are encouraged to have a voice in planning and decision-making, with ongoing collaboration with parents and an open-door policy for staff and families.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Al Nahda National Schools describe themselves as mainstream private English‑medium schools offering American and British curricula, not as specialist SEN institutions. They state that they provide support for students with learning difficulties and offer encouragement for gifted and talented students as part of an inclusive approach. The inclusion framework is reflected in policy materials that include Student Protection, Safeguarding and Inclusion, indicating an all‑through school approach rather than a dedicated SEN provision. The school's policies reference inclusion of diverse learner needs, including Students of Determination and Gifted and Talented as part of their policy framework. The school is licensed by ADEK and the UAE Ministry of Education and operates across two campuses (Girls' and Boys'), reinforcing its mainstream, non‑specialist SEN status within a broad international program context.	Special educational needs (SEN) The school operates as an inclusive institution with a Graduated Response to learning to meet the needs of learners with SEN. The kinds of SEN supported include English as an Additional Language (EAL), Lower Ability, Students of Determination, More Able, and Gifted and Talented. A range of interventions and therapies is available through the Inclusion Team, Learning Support Assistants, SEN Teachers and Nurture Groups, Counsellors and Social Workers, and Intervention Groups. The school provides physical accessibility measures, risk assessments, Personal Care Plans and Personal Evacuation Plans where required, and uses adaptive and modified curricula with alternative pathways such as Functional Skills and the Unit Award Scheme. Provision meetings with families create bespoke provision and Individual Learning Plans to ensure equality of opportunity within mainstream classes. The school is not a specialist SEN institution; it maintains an inclusive mainstream approach.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school is described as an English‑medium private school, delivering instruction in English within both American and British programs. Public disclosure of explicit EAL programs, staffing, or dedicated EAL initiatives is not provided in publicly accessible materials. The information available focuses on its curricula, accreditation and inclusion policies rather than specific English‑as‑an‑additional‑language supports. Consequently, there are no detailed publicly disclosed EAL provisions to reference. The English‑medium status, however, underpins the language of instruction across the school's programs.	English as an additional language EAL is listed as a category within the school's Inclusion Provision, indicating explicit support for EAL learners within the inclusive framework. EAL support is delivered as part of the school's inclusive provision, with staff and interventions integrated into the Student Support Team's planning. The policy does not describe a separate stand-alone EAL department; instead, EAL is addressed alongside other inclusion provisions through the broader support system.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the school's wellbeing commitments and values, including a safe and caring learning environment and moral foundations such as respect, empathy and resilience. The pastoral and social support networks are described as ensuring students feel valued, with leadership emphasizing social‑emotional development and wellbeing as part of the learning journey. The Wellbeing statements include fostering self‑image, respect for self and others, and the development of global citizenship with empathy and care as core values. The school also highlights leadership and staff roles dedicated to supporting students' social and emotional growth beyond academic achievement. Curricular and co‑curricular activities are leveraged to reinforce wellbeing alongside academic learning.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed within the inclusive provision, emphasizing a healthy, safe and happy environment with guidance and support for students. Counselling, in-school therapy services and access to social workers are available to support student wellbeing. Staff are equipped to help learners manage their behaviour and emotions to participate in learning, with appropriate adaptations where needed. Provision meetings and family partnerships support wellbeing and give learners a path to have a voice in planning. The safeguarding policy also commits to accessible, non-judgmental counseling and wellbeing support for all students.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Al Nahda National Schools commit to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students, with recruitment and staff vetting aligned to safeguarding requirements. A Child Safeguarding Policy is referenced on the Careers page, alongside a broader policy framework containing Student Protection and Safeguarding policies. The policy manuals for both Boys and Girls schools include sections such as Student Protection and Safeguarding, indicating formal safeguarding governance. Public materials show the school maintains formal mechanisms to address safeguarding concerns and protect students. These safeguarding provisions are in addition to ADEK/MOE licensing and accreditation obligations governing the two campuses.	Safeguarding The school follows the ADEK Safeguarding Policy, effective from AY 2024/25 with compliance from February 1, 2026. A Safeguarding Lead or Safeguarding Committee oversees the school's safeguarding strategy and ensures staff and volunteers are informed and trained. The policy requires annual monitoring and review of safeguarding practices and ensures adherence to the ADEK Student Protection Policy. Safeguarding awareness strategies focus on a safe and caring environment, zero tolerance for maltreatment, monitoring at-risk students, and clear reporting and response procedures. Safeguarding is integrated into the curriculum to develop self-esteem, risk awareness, consent, and online safety, while staff are trained to respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns. Counselling and support services are accessible, free of judgment, and available to all students.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school has two campuses in Abu Dhabi: the Girls' School and the Boys' School. It offers excellent facilities.	Facilities overview The campus includes a canteen and a school bus service. There are shaded courts for outdoor activities and a gym for physical education. Culinary classes and music classes have dedicated facilities. Outdoor courts, a swimming pool, murals and a green screen studio are also on site. Computer labs, a library, a playground and a drama theatre support learning and creative work.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities Shaded courts and outdoor courts support a range of sports. A gym provides fitness training and conditioning. The swimming pool supports aquatic activity.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities ANNS is an English-medium school in Abu Dhabi offering both British and American programs. The curriculum includes languages, mathematics, sciences, humanities, information technology, Islamic studies, physical education, music, drama and art. The school is licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education. Accreditation includes NEASC, CIS, ECIS, Cambridge International Examinations, Pearson Edexcel and the SAT College Board.	Academic facilities Computer labs support ICT learning and research. The library provides space for independent study and research and supports reading across the curriculum. Culinary classes and music classes offer practical facilities for subject work, and a drama theatre provides a venue for performing arts.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a variety of enriching and stimulating extra-curricular activities. The aim is to provide opportunities for students to engage beyond academics and develop 21st-century skills.	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a broad extra-curricular program. Regular sports include swimming, cricket, football, rugby and athletics. The After-School Programme includes photography, chess, drama, arts, environmental clubs and debates. All students participate in inter-school sports and academic competitions.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Al Nahda National Schools (ANNS) was established in 1983 in Abu Dhabi as a private English-medium school to provide international education through its American and British programs. The school is licensed by the Abu Dhabi Department of Knowledge and Education (ADEK) and the UAE Ministry of Education, and it operates on two campuses—the Girls' School and the Boys' School. It serves a diverse student body of nearly 5,800 students and has built a framework of international accreditation with CIS (since 2009), ECIS, NEASC, Cambridge International Examinations, Edexcel, and the SAT College Board. The late founder and General Manager, Mr. Saeed Abdullah Nasser Al-Junaibi, established ANNS and guided its early growth, emphasizing English language proficiency, Emirati identity, and broad engagement with the education community, including hosting notable visitors such as Muhammad Ali.	History GCIS Abu Dhabi opened in 2013 as GEMS Cambridge International School – Abu Dhabi at the Baniyas City BAS project, initially admitting Foundation Stage 1 to Year 8. The school is owned and operated by GEMS Education in partnership with the Baniyas Investment and Development Company (BIDC). The GEMS Cambridge Schools carry a three-decade legacy in the region, and GCIS Abu Dhabi represents that tradition within the GEMS Cambridge family. The curriculum is aligned with the British National Curriculum, with Foundation Stage through Year 13 and qualifications including GCSE, IGCSE, and A Level / International A Level. The campus is located in Baniyas City, Abu Dhabi.
Community	Community ANNS has a diverse student community representing multiple nationalities, reflecting its international orientation. Students and staff participate in national and cultural events; for example, National Day celebrations have featured ANNS performances such as the Al Yolla traditional dance and national poetry readings. Core school life includes annual events such as science fairs, graduation ceremonies, and Heritage Nights Festivals. The school emphasizes ongoing engagement with families and the broader community, as evidenced by the founder's emphasis on parent communication and partnerships with parents.	Community The school runs a broad range of extracurricular activities and a robust after-school programme, including clubs in photography, chess, drama, arts, environmental clubs, and debates. CIAMUN is a student-led GEMS Cambridge International Model United Nations that focuses on public speaking, negotiation and leadership. Students participate in inter-school competitions and sports, with regular involvement in cricket, football, netball and swimming, and have undertaken international trips such as Harvard MUN and NASA-related programs. The school recognises student achievement through annual roll-of-honour lists and awards across creativity, innovation, academics and sports.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association Publicly published materials do not describe a formal Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at ANNS. A Parents Portal provides a channel for parent communications with the school. The founder emphasized ongoing communication with parents and described parents as partners in their children's upbringing. The school notes active family engagement through events and ceremonies such as National Day celebrations and graduations, and maintains an Alumni program to reconnect graduates and to support current students. Alumni engagement is organized through an Alumni Sign Up process and related outreach. Overall, parent involvement is framed as a partnership rather than a formal PTA body.	Parent teacher association The school uses a Parent Partnership framework to involve parents. Close communication is central, with an open-door policy, consultation evenings and written progress reports. The program promotes parental engagement through the ‘3-a-day' guidance (talk, share, encourage). It is grounded in research on parental involvement and cites work by Hattie and Desforges to support the value of parent engagement. The site does not publish a separately named PTA or parent-teacher association; engagement is structured through the Parent Partnership framework. Guardians can arrange one-to-one conversations with staff as needed.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Al Nahda National Schools offer both American and British Curricula with English as the medium of instruction. The programs cover a broad range of subjects including Languages, Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Information Technology, Islamic Studies, Physical Education, Music, Drama & Art. The Boys School serves Grades 4-12 and the Girls School KG-12, with enrollment of 2,224 and 3,576 students respectively. ANNS is accredited by NEASC, CIS, ECIS, CAIE, Pearson Edexcel and SAT, and emphasizes 21st-century learning with co-curricular activities.	Academic & intellectual The school teaches a British curriculum and serves Foundation Stage 1 through Year 13. It prepares students for the IGCSE. The school holds Cambridge and Edexcel accreditations. GCSE results include 32.3% A-A, 61% A-B and 79% A-C; AS results include 10 students achieving straight A grades, and 50% of A Level results are A-B.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Music, Drama & Art are part of the curriculum. Arts education supports creative development and complements academic study.	Arts & creative Music classes are available and there is a drama theatre on site. There are brand new art studios and libraries to support artistic expression. Creativity is recognised through awards such as the CIA Roll of Honour and Creativity and Innovation Awards. The After-School Programme includes Photography, Chess, Drama and Arts.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The British and American Curricula are offered, with a focus on global citizenship and cultural awareness. The American curriculum aligns with Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics; the British curriculum aligns with Cambridge International Curriculum. National Day and Cultural Evenings are celebrated as part of school life.	Cultural & language CIAMUN is part of the curriculum. MOE Arabic/Islamic studies are offered with a 100% pass rate. International trips include a NASA Trip, Harvard MUN and Oxford and Cambridge Universities Innovation Trips. CIAMUN and related international programmes support cultural engagement and global awareness.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Extracurricular activities include sports, robotics, and debating. National Day and Cultural Evenings are also part of school life.	Social & hobbies The After-School Programme includes Photography, Chess, Drama and Arts. Regular sports include Swimming, Cricket, Football, Rugby and Athletics. All students are expected to represent the school in inter-school sports or academic competitions. Clubs and activities support social interaction and hobbies.
Community & service	Community & service Global citizenship is a focus, with emphasis on serving the local and global community. Sustainability and environmental awareness are promoted as part of school values.	Community & service Philanthropic awards include Red Crescent fundraising, Dubai Cares recognition, Operation Smile fundraising and Ramadan acts of kindness. International community service trips include Cambodia Community Service Expedition, Switzerland Ski Trip and Seattle Space Camp. Over 1000 Acts of Kindness during Ramadan are recorded. Ramadan fundraising and service activities are part of student life.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development and 21st-century skills are central to ANNS education. The school aims to prepare students to become leaders who contribute to their communities.	Leadership & professional CIAMUN and the GEMS Leadership Student Conference provide leadership development opportunities. Harvard MUN, NASA Trip and Oxford and Cambridge University Innovation Trips expand leadership experiences. A range of competitions and awards reflect student leadership and engagement.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The school provides a safe, caring environment and promotes values such as respect, integrity and empathy. It offers support for learners with difficulties and for gifted and talented students. Physical Education and sports are included in the program.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus includes a 25m swimming pool, a beginner pool, cricket nets and playing fields. The facilities include a gym, shaded courts and a canteen. The music classes, drama theatre and other arts facilities support well-being through creative activities. Outdoor spaces and sports programs promote healthy, active lifestyles.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school is an English-medium private school in Abu Dhabi. The school offers both American and British curricula. The language of instruction is English.	Language provision The school uses English as the language of instruction. Arabic is taught as a core subject in Primary (KS1) and is compulsory in Secondary. A second language is offered in Secondary as an optional subject, with French available as an option. The school maintains multilingualism policy documents in English and Arabic to guide language provision and support.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards null	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations NEASC, CIS, ECIS, Cambridge International Examinations (CAIE), Pearson Edexcel, and SAT College Board.	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Online registration and submission of the application and all required supporting documents. You will be given a reference number for your application. 2. Attend the oral interview after the application is accepted. 3. From the first to the twelfth grades, there is a computer-based entrance exam. 4. Register in the ADEK system. 5. Attend the interview and exam. 6. Pay the registration fees. The registration page notes that new registrations for the 2025-2026 academic year begin in January and continue throughout the year. 360-degree school tours are available for the Girls' Primary Campus, Girls' Secondary Campus, and Boys' Campus (A & B) as well as Campus Block C. For inquiries, contact the Registration Department via the provided channels.	Admissions Step 1: To begin the application, complete the online application through the Enrol Online Page. Admission for the 2026-27 academic year is open. Before accessing the online form, read the registration guidelines. The online registration starts when you submit the form. Step 2: After submitting the online application, you receive an Enquiry number and a link to upload required documents. Upload pdf copies of the child's passport, one recent passport photo, and the Emirates ID if available. Documents must be uploaded in pdf format. Incomplete or incorrect applications, or changing the birth year, will not be processed, and the student will not be invited for an assessment. Step 3: After completing Steps 1-2, you will be notified of the next steps via email or phone; ensure to provide a valid email address and telephone number. All new students must provide documentation of previous schooling and report cards; documents must be in English. A Transfer Certificate or School Leaving Certificate is required for Years 1 and above, and attestation and stamping requirements vary by location as per ADEK. ADEK policy governs age placement; age determines grade placement, with mappings such as 3-4 years for Pre-KG/FS1 up to 17-18 years for Year 13/G12.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist If there are no available seats in the required class, the registration request is placed on a waiting list with a maximum capacity. Priority is given to students with siblings already in the school or whose parents are employees. Guardians receive text and email updates, and status can be viewed through the parent portal.	Waitlist —
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