The Guide
Sat, 16 May 2026

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.


Curriculum
American
Fees, annual
AED 28–45k

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.


Fee Age Type Amount
PRE-KG 3 Annual AED 27,880
KG1 4 Annual AED 27,880
KG2 5 Annual AED 27,880
Grade 1 6 Annual AED 32,530
Grade 2 7 Annual AED 33,660
Grade 3 8 Annual AED 34,790
Grade 4 9 Annual AED 35,930
Grade 5 10 Annual AED 37,180
Grade 6 11 Annual AED 38,310
Grade 7 12 Annual AED 39,440
Grade 8 13 Annual AED 40,580
Grade 9 14 Annual AED 41,820
Grade 10 15 Annual AED 42,960
Grade 11 16 Annual AED 44,100
Grade 12 17 Annual AED 45,230
Bus Fee One-time AED 5,000

  • Teacher signal is split: one teacher praised secondary leadership, while another flagged weak behaviour systems and difficult student conduct.
  • Public inspection-adjacent coverage points to a stable mid-tier American-curriculum school, with a Good rating and stronger early years foundations.

Head of school

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

2 Qroun Al Fardah St - Shakhbout City - MSH28 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

School website