Compare curricula, ADEK ratings, and key information to help you choose
Yas Island has rapidly evolved into one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular family communities, combining vibrant neighbourhoods with world-class leisure attractions, parks and an expanding choice of private schools.
Whether you’re moving to Yas Acres, Noya, Water’s Edge or Mayan, families can choose from British, American and SABIS educational pathways without leaving the island.
While Yas Island currently has fewer private schools than neighbouring Saadiyat Island or Khalifa City, its three schools offer distinct educational approaches, modern campuses and the convenience of learning close to home.
This guide compares every private school on Yas Island, including their curricula, ADEK ratings and what makes each one unique.
Private schools on Yas Island: curriculum, ages and ADEK rating
| School | Curriculum | Ages | ADEK rating* |
| Yas American Academy | American (Massachusetts State Curriculum) | Pre-KG–Grade 12 | Good |
| SABIS International School – Yas Island | SABIS® Educational System | Pre-KG–Grade 12 | Good |
| Noya British School | British | FS1–Year 9 (expanding annually) | Not yet inspected |
*ADEK Irtiqa ratings are correct at the time of writing
Why choose a private school on Yas Island?
One of Yas Island’s biggest advantages is convenience. Families can access three international schools without leaving the island, helping to reduce commuting times while offering a choice of British, American and SABIS education.
Which international curricula are available on Yas Island?
Parents living on Yas Island can choose:
- British curriculum
- American curriculum
- SABIS® Educational System
- Modern purpose-built campuses
- Established all-through schools and a growing British school
For families seeking a shorter school run alongside an active lifestyle, Yas Island offers a convenient and increasingly popular place to live and learn.
Private schools on Yas Island: schools in detail
Yas American Academy
Curriculum: American (Massachusetts State Curriculum)
Ages: Pre-KG–Grade 12
ADEK rating: Good
Part of the Aldar Education group, Yas American Academy has been welcoming families on Yas Island since 2016.
Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), the school follows the Massachusetts State Curriculum from Pre-KG to Grade 12.
A broad co-curricular programme and strong university preparation make it a popular choice for families seeking an established American education.
SABIS International School – Yas Island
Curriculum: SABIS® Educational System
Ages: Pre-KG–Grade 12
ADEK rating: Good
Part of the global SABIS® Network, SABIS International School – Yas Island follows the SABIS® Educational System, combining a structured academic approach with multilingual learning in English, Arabic and French.
Students prepare for internationally recognised qualifications including IGCSEs, AS and A Levels, AP and the SAT. Rated Good by ADEK, the school is well-suited to families seeking flexible university pathways.
Noya British School
Curriculum: British
Current provision: FS1–Year 9 (expanding annually)
ADEK rating: Not yet inspected
Opened in September 2024, Noya British School is the newest private school on Yas Island and part of the Aldar Education network. The school follows the English National Curriculum and is adding one year group each year as it grows into an all-through school.
Noya has adopted High Performance Learning (HPL), an evidence-based framework that develops both academic achievement and learner confidence, supported by specialist science, technology and innovation spaces.
As a recently opened school, Noya has not yet received an ADEK Irtiqa inspection rating.
