Cranleigh Abu Dhabi

Cranleigh Abu Dhabi opened its doors on Saadiyat Island in September 2014, establishing Cranleigh's first international campus in the United Arab Emirates. Built in partnership with the Royal Group and the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the campus was planned as a two‑campus site with separate Junior and Senior sections on a seven‑hectare footprint. Cranleigh International established the local operating company for the school, which Aldar Education took over in 2018 to sustain growth and the continuing Cranleigh partnership. In January 2024 a dedicated Cranleigh Abu Dhabi Pre‑Prep site opened at Saadiyat Lagoons to serve over 600 three‑to‑six‑year‑olds. Cranleigh Abu Dhabi operates within the Cranleigh International network while maintaining its own governance under Aldar Education.

The school embraces its international location and the rich diversity of cultures that define the UAE. Cross‑campus collaborations with Cranleigh UK are part of the community life, including joint events such as the Winter Music Festival with Cranleigh Abu Dhabi in 2025, where 22 Cranleigh Abu Dhabi musicians joined Cranleigh UK's Big Band, Brass Ensemble and String Orchestra. Back‑to‑school events and parent engagement are part of community life, including Parent Coffee Mornings and Meet Your Teacher evenings. Cross‑campus activities include trips and exchanges, such as netball trips to Abu Dhabi.

Cranleigh Abu Dhabi maintains an active parent engagement framework that includes regular events and opportunities for parental involvement. Regular events include Parent Coffee Mornings and Meet Your Teacher evenings to help parents engage with staff and understand their child's progress. Parent volunteers participate in school life through groups such as Cranleigh Friends, who supported major events including a cross‑campus Winter Music Festival. The school uses a parent portal to share student information and school communications with families. Since 2018, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi has operated under Aldar Education, ensuring continuity of governance while preserving the Cranleigh ethos. The opening of the January 2024 Pre‑Prep site expanded family engagement by accommodating younger learners within the Cranleigh Abu Dhabi community.