Cities / Abu Dhabi / Virginia International Private School
Virginia International Private School
An American curriculum school in Shakhbout City, opened in 2015 and now operated by Aldar Education following its 2023 acquisition. NEASC accredited, with investment going into facilities and staff development under the new ownership.
In brief
An American curriculum school in Shakhbout City, opened in 2015 and now operated by Aldar Education following its 2023 acquisition. NEASC accredited, with investment going into facilities and staff development under the new ownership.
The programme is built on US Common Core standards with a STEAM emphasis, leading to an American High School Diploma. Teachers are recruited mainly from the US, UK, Ireland, and Canada. ADEK rating sat at Good in the last published cycle, with the Aldar Education investment pitched at lifting it further.
Parent feedback since the change of ownership has been positive on teaching quality, leadership, and a safe campus feel. The new campus build adds a swimming pool and sports hall. Sensible mid-tier choice for families on the Khalifa City and Shakhbout side of the city who want an American route without paying the premium of the marquee American schools.
Fees
Annual fees
| Year level | Age | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| PRE-KG | 3 | AED 27,880 |
| KG1 | 4 | AED 27,880 |
| KG2 | 5 | AED 27,880 |
| Grade 1 | 6 | AED 32,530 |
| Grade 2 | 7 | AED 33,660 |
| Grade 3 | 8 | AED 34,790 |
| Grade 4 | 9 | AED 35,930 |
| Grade 5 | 10 | AED 37,180 |
| Grade 6 | 11 | AED 38,310 |
| Grade 7 | 12 | AED 39,440 |
| Grade 8 | 13 | AED 40,580 |
| Grade 9 | 14 | AED 41,820 |
| Grade 10 | 15 | AED 42,960 |
| Grade 11 | 16 | AED 44,100 |
| Grade 12 | 17 | AED 45,230 |
One-time fees
| Item | Age | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Bus Fee | AED 5,000 |
Reviews
An American-curriculum school in Shakhbout City that came under Aldar Education in 2023 and has been finding its current shape since. Mid-range fees, NEASC accreditation, and a predominantly Emirati roll. Bassem Saryeddine took over as principal in May 2025 after a stretch under an acting head, so leadership is new and the picture under it is still settling.
Positives
- Ownership and trajectory. Part of Aldar Education since 2023, alongside Yas American Academy and the newer Yasmina American School. The group backing has funded a campus expansion with new classrooms, labs, a learning hub, and a semi-Olympic pool.
- Curriculum and accreditation. American curriculum from pre-KG through Grade 12, NEASC accredited, with an SAT testing centre on site. Core subjects taught by Western-trained teachers.
- Fees. AED 27,880 at the bottom of the school rising to AED 45,230 in Grade 12. Mid-range for an Abu Dhabi American school, with transport, books and uniforms billed on top.
Considerations
- Leadership transition. The principal seat has turned over more than once since the Aldar deal, with Aine Clarke acting before Bassem Saryeddine was appointed in May 2025. Settled judgement on the new structure is not yet possible.
- Inspection rating. ADEK rated the school Good at its last full cycle in 2021-22, a step up from two previous Acceptable verdicts. That rating predates the Aldar acquisition and the current leadership team, so it reads more as starting point than current measure.
- Roll mix. Around 85% of the student body is Emirati. Families wanting a broadly mixed expat cohort within an American-curriculum setting will find that shapes the social fabric here.
Leadership
Bassam Saryeddine
Bassam Saryeddine brings over 15 years of educational experience in the UAE and serves as Principal of Virginia American Private School Abu Dhabi. He is committed to contributing to the nation's educational vision through a safe, caring, and nurturing environment equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. He emphasizes the school's REACH philosophy centred on respect, empathy, aspiration, courage, and honesty, while prioritising critical thinking and innovation among students.
Accreditations
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges 01
Location
2 Qroun Al Fardah St - Shakhbout City - MSH28 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates