Everything You Need to Know About GEMS Schools in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is an ideal place for children of all ages to pursue their education. The vibrant city offers students world-class schools, cultural richness, and a safe environment conducive to learning and personal growth.

GEMS schools in Abu Dhabi provide students with top quality education. We offer a variety of curriculums, including American, British, Indian and International Baccalaureate (IB).

All of our American, British, Indian and IB schools in Abu Dhabi have state-of-the-art facilities, libraries and technology-driven classrooms. This ensures that students get everything they need to excel in today’s fast-paced digital world.

This article aims to give you an overview of our schools in Abu Dhabi and what parents and students should know about the education we provide.

An Overview of GEMS Education

GEMS Education has schools in 8 countries, and specifically 42 schools in the UAE.

We have received accreditations and affiliations from highly respected international educational bodies, including the following:

• Advanced Placement College Board (AP)
• Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
• Council of British International Schools (COBIS)
• Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE)
• International Schools Services (ISS)
• Middle East International Baccalaureate Association (MEIBA)

GEMS Education has some of the best schools in Abu Dhabi, which are:

• GEMS World Academy
• GEMS American Academy
• GEMS United Indian School
• GEMS Cambridge International School
• Our Own English High School - Al Ain
• GEMS Winchester School
• The Cambridge High School
• GEMS Founders School - Masdar City

For more information on each of these schools, read our blog post on the best GEMS schools in Abu Dhabi.

Curricula Offered by GEMS Schools in Abu Dhabi

We offer American, British, Indian and IB curriculums in Abu Dhabi. Below is an overview of these curricula:

1. American Curriculum

The American or US curriculum is based on the American Common Core State Standards. It focuses on providing students with a well-rounded education, and the right balance of in-classroom and co-curricular activities.

This internationally recognised curriculum offers a wide range of courses and subjects, helping students excel in various areas.

The American curriculum’s variety of subjects and teaching strategies give children more opportunities to develop the skills they need to become well-rounded individuals.

This programme, which is offered by GEMS American Academy Abu Dhabi, one of the top 10 schools in Abu Dhabi, according to Bayut and The Good Schools Guide, also promotes creativity, critical thinking, and social skills among all learners. These abilities help them prepare better for university and future careers.

Under this curriculum, students start their educational journey in preschool and complete it in Grade 12. Read our blog for a detailed guide to the American Curriculum in GEMS schools.

2. British Curriculum

The British curriculum, or National Curriculum for England, is a system of education that emphasises critical thinking, creativity, and flexibility among students.

The programme, which GEMS Winchester School - Abu Dhabi offers, has a set of measurable and achievable goals that help learners progress from one stage to another.

The British curriculum has key stages starting from the Early Years to Key Stage (KS) 5. It covers various subjects including maths, science, literature, arts and humanities.

As students progress, they delve deeper into each subject, allowing them to have broader knowledge and develop more skills in each area.

This globally recognised curriculum aims to develop well-rounded individuals who thrive in academics, sports, arts and other areas through different in-classroom, co- and extracurricular activities. Read more about the British Curriculum in our blog post.

3. International Baccalaureate (IB) Curriculum

The IB curriculum is a continuous system of learning that takes students through the following stages:

• Primary Years Programme (PYP)
• Middle Years Programme (MYP)
• Diploma Programme (DP)
• International Baccalaureate Career Related Programme (IBCP)

This internationally accepted curriculum fosters the personal and academic growth of children ages three to 19 by challenging them to think critically and encouraging them to ask the right questions.

As one of the best IB schools in Abu Dhabi (based on Edarabia), GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi also promotes diversity and curiosity through this programme.

4. Indian Curriculum

GEMS United Indian School offers a Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) programme. This system offers a structured and comprehensive programme that provides a well-rounded education to students.

The Indian curriculum places a strong emphasis on academic excellence. It is designed to help learners develop various skills and competencies, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.

Aside from featuring academic subjects, this curriculum allows students to engage in different co- and extracurricular activities.

Under this widely recognised programme, students start their studies in play school and graduate when they complete Grade 12.

Enrichment Activities at GEMS Schools in Abu Dhabi

Aside from helping students broaden their knowledge and expertise in different subjects, we provide various opportunities for learners to acquire more skills and discover their passion.

All GEMS schools in Abu Dhabi have modern facilities and qualified mentors and trainers to guide students.

These enrichment activities focus on:

1. Science and digital technology

Our maths, robotics, STEM and STEAM clubs and other programmes are designed to future-proof students. They teach children to be creative thinkers, problem solvers and innovators.

2. Sports

Students can have their pick of sporting activities to pursue their athletic dreams or fitness goals, widen their social circles and develop other skills. These include football, rugby, swimming, tennis and more.

3. Arts and creativity

We provide students with a variety of activities that allow them to express their artistic and creative sides. These include arts and crafts, music, drama, photography, and performing arts clubs.

4. Languages and culture

Students who want to broaden their knowledge of other cultures, learn a new language, and hone their communication skills can choose a club that helps them reach this goal. They can learn French, Spanish, Islamic arts and more.

5. Leadership and entrepreneurship

We offer a variety of opportunities designed to help students start their journey in leadership and entrepreneurship. Learners who want to become future leaders and entrepreneurs can join public speaking, leadership and entrepreneurship, innovation and social impact (EIS) programmes.

Other Must-Know Facts About GEMS Schools in Abu Dhabi

Below are some other important facts worth knowing about Abu Dhabi’s GEMS schools:

• The academic year for American, British and IB GEMS schools in Abu Dhabi usually begins at the end of August. The first term for schools offering the Indian curriculum typically starts in April.
• A typical school day starts between 0700-0800 hrs and ends between 1400-1500 hrs. Preschool and kindergarten students usually have classes for a few hours only.
• GEMS requires all students to wear official school uniforms. The designs and types vary based on the school.
• The annual school fees of GEMS schools in Abu Dhabi range from AED 2,200 to AED 96,333.
• The total cost varies depending on the school, curriculum and grade or year level of the student.

We offer ways for parents to save money on tuition fees, making high-quality education more affordable for young learners. You can read our article on how to save on school fees to discover these solutions.

Why Choose GEMS Education

If you’re an expat or have recently moved to Abu Dhabi with your family, GEMS schools are a great option since we offer internationally recognised curriculums that ensure a seamless transition for globally mobile families.

GEMS schools ensure your children receive personalised attention and grow in a close-knit community, which can help them thrive academically and socially. Additionally, our schools boast state-of-the-art facilities, more extracurricular programmes, and experienced educators, enabling your children to have a well-rounded education.

We have a diverse student body as well, allowing your children to experience different cultures and enhance their global perspective.

Contact us if you want to know more about our schools in Abu Dhabi or if you have questions about our programmes and admissions process.