Riyadh, the bustling capital of Saudi Arabia, is a melting pot that draws people from various corners of the globe. With the opening up of Saudi Arabia as well as the requirement of international companies to have a main office in the city, to qualify to bid on government contracts, even more expatriate families are being posted to this increasingly multicultural city.
- Education in Riyadh
- Choosing a school in Riyadh
- Special Educational Needs in Riyadh
- Pre-school, kindergartens and nurseries in Riyadh
- Best schools in Riyadh
- Best schools in Jeddah
- Best schools in Damman/Al Khobar/Dhahran
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Education in Riyadh
Myriad international schools in Riyadh boast diverse educational philosophies and curricula. Schools here frequently align with global curricula such as the British or American curriculum or the International Baccalaureate (IB). International schools in Saudi Arabia, offer Arabic as part of their curriculum. However, the level of Arabic instruction may differ between schools. Some schools have Arabic language classes as a compulsory near-native level subject while some will only offer basic Arabic lessons as part of their language program to provide students with an understanding of the local language and culture. Many schools do a mixture of both.
Non-Saudi students are able to enrol in the local state schools; however, the curriculum is taught in Arabic and is focused on meeting the demands of the local population rather than those students who will move abroad for higher education.
Choosing a school in Riyadh
Choosing the right international school in Riyadh can be a daunting task due to the large array of options. Factors such as curriculum alignment, language offerings, extracurricular activities, and the school's ethos play pivotal roles in the decision-making process. Riyadh is a huge city, so the school’s location, transportation options, and daily schedule also need to be factored in.
While Riyadh reigns as the capital and primary economic hub of Saudi Arabia, Dammam (alongside its satellite cities of Dhahran and Al Khobar) and Jeddah also draw numerous expat families. Each holds its appeal within the kingdom.
Dammam, Dhahran and Al Khobar stand out as prominent cities within the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, making substantial contributions to the region's economy.
Dammam, the capital of the Eastern Province, is the main industrial city in the region. Dhahran houses the headquarters of Saudi Armco, the world’s largest oil company. Aramco has its own residential camp, complete with international schools, cinemas, shops and a hospital. It can house over 11,000 residents, both locals and expats. Al Khobar, as well as being the main residential area in the Eastern Province, is also home to the region’s main business district and again has a choice of good international schools.
As a result of its proximity to Mecca, Jeddah is the oldest and most multicultural city in Saudi Arabia. Jeddah Islamic Port is Saudi Arabia’s busiest port, making Jeddah an economic centre that attracts a varied mix of expats and visitors.
Special education needs in Riyadh
Many of the international schools in Riyadh can cater to the needs of students with mild learning difficulties. However, notably Reigate Grammar School Riyadh addresses a broad spectrum of additional needs, encompassing Autism (mild to moderate), Downs Syndrome, Global Developmental Delay, Cognitive Delay, Cerebral Palsy, and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder.
Pre-schools, kindergarten and nurseries in Riyadh
Riyadh is home to a variety of pre-schools and nurseries, with options based on where you live, waiting lists (which can be long) and whether your preference is for a small pre-school or the nursery section of a larger international school. Some of the main residential compounds in Riyadh, such as Ishbilia and Al Nakhla, house their own pre-schools, with the former following the Montessori curriculum.
Best schools in Riyadh
The schools below have been brought to our attention:
Abdulaziz International Schools – Al Sulaimanah
SABIS curriculum; ages 3-18; separate sections for boys and girls; day; independent; privately owned
SABIS is an international education management organisation, originally established by the International School of Choueifat in Lebanon. Now owned by SABIS Educational Systems, based in Minnesota and associated as licensor and operator of schools in 20 countries, including 15 schools in the USA, but mainly located in the Middle East. The schools (including two in Jeddah) follow the SABIS curriculum, stated as ‘integrated, comprehensive kindergarten through twelfth grade academic program’.
SABIS School Abdulaziz International Al-Sulaimaniah, Riyadh
SABIS School Abdulaziz International Al-Wadi, Riyadh
SABIS School Abdulaziz International Rabigh, Jeddah
SABIS School Jeddah International Academy
Advanced Learning Schools
PYP/ MYP/ IB Diploma; ages 3-18; separate sections for girls and boys; day; independent; privately owned; 600 students
One of the few independent schools in the Kingdom given permission to deviate from the Saudi National Curriculum. Classes taught in English except for Arabic and Islamic studies (20 per cent of the curriculum). Over 60 per cent of the students are Al Sauds (members of the royal family) and the student body is overwhelmingly Saudi although welcoming to expats. Accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS).
Aldenham Prep Riyadh
EYFS/ National Curriculum for England/ Schools-own developed curriculum/ ages 4-11; co-ed; day; independent: privately owned;
An offshoot of Aldenham School in the UK (which was founded in 1597), Aldenham Prep Riyadh opened its doors in September 2022 to offer a British curriculum from nursery years through to 11 years old. Located in Riyadh North and accessible from across the city. A senior school, Aldenham School Riyadh, will open in 2025 for ages 11-18 giving students an all-through option though they may also join at any stage.
American International School Riyadh (AISR)
Adapted American curriculum/ American High School Diploma/ IB Diploma; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; independent; private non-profit; 1,600 students
Formerly the American Preparatory School of Riyadh, started by parents in 1963 and - after several name changes - now provides a US education to students from over 50 different countries. Located since 2014 on a new campus in the north of Riyadh. Majority of students opt for the IB Diploma.
British International School Riyadh
National Curriculum for England/ IGCSE/ A Level; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; independent; private non-profit; 1,450 students
Originally founded in 1979 as the Riyadh Continental school. On its present campus and under its present name since 1995, together with a satellite primary school for BAE families in Salwa (automatic transition to BISR in year 7). Apart from excellent academic results, it apparently boasts a ‘Paul’ café onsite.
Dome International Schools
American curriculum/ American High School Diploma/Cambridge 1 & 2/ A Level; ages 3-18; co-ed; independent; privately owned; 1,870 students
Opened in 2016 and offering two separate schools, one with an American curriculum and diploma and one following English curricula culminating in A Levels. Students are mainly local but there are some from 25 different nationalities.
Downe House Riyadh
National curriculum for England/ IGCSE/ A level; ages 3-18; girls only; day; 300 girls; independent: privately owned
Opened in 2022 as Saudi Arabia’s first British all-girls’ school, Downe House Riyadh is an offshoot of the well-known girls’ school, Downe House, in the UK. The second in the international family (Downe House Muscat also opened in 2022) the school opened with 300 students using an existing school facility. Both girls and boys are accepted into the pre-prep and lower prep school (ages 3-9), turning girls only in years 5-13. Capacity to grow to 2,200 within five years.
École Francaise Internationale de Riyad
French curriculum/ Brevet/ French Bac; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; state; 1,260 students
The school belongs to the network of the French Agency for Education Abroad (AEFE), which now comprises around 500 schools around the globe, all teaching a traditional French curriculum.
King Faisal School
PYP/ MYP/ IB Diploma; ages 3-18 (boys), 3-6 (girls); day; independent; private non-profit; 1,400 students
Launched in 1991 as part of the King Faisal Foundation with Prince Saud Al-Faisal as the current chairman of the board of directors. Adopted the IB programme in 2007 and has recently inaugurated PSATs and set up a university preparation programme in collaboration with Brown University. 40 per cent of graduates continue their education at Alfaisal University, with a large percentage of the remainder moving on to US alternatives.
King’s College, Riyadh
Adapted National Curriculum of England; ages 3-10; co-ed; day; independent: privately owned;
Located in Diriyah, this offshoot of King’s College UK offers a British education to children aged 3-10, with plans to open through to 18 years old over the next few years. Offers a strong programme of extra-curricular activities.
One World International School
IB Primary Years Programme (Candidate); ages 3-11; co-ed; day; Independent: private non-profit
Reigate Grammar School Riyadh
Australian National Curriculum/ IGSCE/ A Level; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; independent; privately owned; 1,600 students
Formerly the Multinational School, which was originally designed to meet the needs of international expats who might not have their own community schools, and became the favourite choice for Antipodean and Canadian expats.
Saud International School
Adapted American curriculum (grades 1-5) / adapted National Curriculum for England/ IGCSE/ A Level; ages 3-18; separate sections for girls and boys; day; independent; privately owned
International, English speaking school in the Sulaimaniyah district of Riyadh, offering an English curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A Levels.
Best schools in Jeddah
Jeddah Prep and Grammar School
National Curriculum for England/ Cambridge International Primary Programme/ Cambridge International Secondary Programme/ IGCSE/ AS levels/ A levels/ BTEC; ages 3-18; co-ed; 650 students; Independent: private non-profit
Opened in 1967 as The International British / Dutch School. Accredited by the British Schools Overseas (BSO) and the British Schools in the Middle East (BSME).
British International School Jeddah
National Curriculum for England/ Cambridge International Primary Programme/ Cambridge International Secondary Programme/ IGCSE/IB Diploma; ages 3-18; co-ed; Independent: private non-profit
Established in 1977 as The Continental School (Conti). Accredited by the European Council of International Schools (ECIS) and the British Schools in the Middle East (BSME)
American International School of Jeddah
Adapted American curriculum/ American High School Diploma/ IB Diploma; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; independent; private.
Founded in 1952 as a school for the children of Trans World Airlines (TWA) staff. Currently sited on a large 1740 student capacity campus. Offers SATs, APs and the IB Diploma.
Best schools in Damman/Al Khobar/Dhahran
The Dhahran School
Comprises of Dhahrain Hills School (ages 4 – 10) and Dhahran Middle School (ages 10 – 15). Located on the Saudi Aramco Residential compound. Only children of Saudi Aramco employees who live on the residential compound, can attend.
British School Dhahran (BSD)
National Curriculum for England/ IGCSE/ A Level; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; independent; private non-profit ; 700 students
Founded in 1981, formerly Dhahran British Grammar School, renamed to British School of Dhahran in 2021. Sited on a modern campus (opened in 2022) which it shares with the American School Dhahran. Accredited by British Schools Overseas (BSO) and the British Schools in the Middle East (BSME)
American School Dhahran
American curriculum/ American High School Diploma/ IB Diploma; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; independent; private non-profit
Formerly known as Dhahran Academy since 1962, initially as a school for US consulate families in the city. Situated on a modern campus (opened in 2022) shared with the British n School Dhahran. Offers Aps and the IB Diploma.
British International School of Al Khobar (BISAK)
National Curriculum for England/ IGCSE/ A Level; ages 3-18; co-ed; day; independent; private non-profit; 900 students
Founded in 1977. Maintains close links with the British Embassy (who governed the school alongside the Saudi Ministry of Education up until 2020. Accredited by British Schools Overseas (BSO) and the British Schools in the Middle East (BSME)
International Programs School (IPS)
Adapted American curriculum/PYP/ MYP/ IB Diploma; ages 3-18; gender-segregated; day; independent; private non-profit; 1,300 students