International Schools in Saudi Arabia: A Guide for Expat Parents (2025)

International Schools in Saudi Arabia: A Guide for Expat Parents (2025)

Moving to Saudi Arabia with your family? One of the top priorities for expat parents is ensuring quality education for their children. Fortunately, Saudi Arabia has a wide range of international schools, offering globally recognized curricula such as British, American, IB, French, and more.

In this complete 2025 guide, we’ll explore the best international schools in Saudi Arabia, tuition fees, enrollment tips, and how to choose the right fit for your child’s education.

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📍 Where Are the Major International Schools?

Most international schools are located in major expat hubs:

  • Riyadh – the capital city, with the largest number of schools
  • Jeddah – coastal city with a vibrant international community
  • Dhahran/Khobar/Dammam – known as the Eastern Province, home to many Aramco expats
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🏫 Top International Schools in Saudi Arabia

🔹 Riyadh

  • British International School Riyadh (BISR) – UK curriculum, highly rated
  • American International School Riyadh (AIS-R) – American curriculum with AP courses
  • Multinational School Riyadh – Australian and British curriculum blend

🔹 Jeddah

  • Jeddah Prep and Grammar School – British system, excellent reputation
  • American International School Jeddah (AISJ) – long-established U.S. curriculum
  • French International School (Lycée Français International) – French curriculum

🔹 Eastern Province (Khobar, Dhahran, Dammam)

  • Dhahran British Grammar School (ISG) – UK-based system, near Aramco
  • American School Dhahran (ASD) – American curriculum with AP
  • International Programs School (IPS) – American and IB programs
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📚 Types of Curricula Offered

Schools typically offer one or more of the following:

  • British (IGCSE, A-Levels)
  • American (High School Diploma + AP)
  • International Baccalaureate (IB)
  • French Baccalaureate
  • Indian (CBSE/ICSE)
  • Philippine (DepEd)

Choosing the right curriculum often depends on your home country or where your child will attend university later.

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💰 Tuition Fees in 2025

Tuition fees vary based on location, curriculum, and school reputation. Below is a general range for annual fees:

  • Kindergarten: SAR 20,000 – 40,000
  • Primary: SAR 30,000 – 60,000
  • Secondary/High School: SAR 40,000 – 90,000+

Most schools also charge registration fees, books/uniforms, transportation, and extracurricular activity fees.

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📝 Enrollment Process

Each school has its own admissions requirements, but the general process includes:

  1. Filling an online application form
  2. Submitting previous academic transcripts
  3. Entrance assessments (for some grades)
  4. Copy of passport, iqama (residency ID), and birth certificate
  5. Interview (in-person or virtual)

Tip: Apply early — many schools have waitlists, especially in popular expat areas.

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🏘 Living Near International Schools

Expat compounds and gated communities are often located near top international schools. This helps with daily commutes and provides a sense of community among families from similar backgrounds.

Also read: Life in Expat Compounds in Saudi Arabia

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🧑‍🏫 Teacher Quality and Language of Instruction

Most teachers at international schools are native English speakers or trained professionals from countries like the UK, US, South Africa, or the Philippines. Subjects are taught in English, and students often take Arabic as a second language (mandatory for some grades).

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🎨 Extracurricular Activities

International schools offer a range of activities, including:

  • Sports (football, basketball, swimming)
  • Music and arts programs
  • Science and robotics clubs
  • Community service and leadership programs

These programs are important for building well-rounded students and are often considered during college admissions.

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📌 Final Thoughts

Saudi Arabia offers high-quality international schooling options for expat families. Whether you prefer a British, American, or IB curriculum, there’s likely a school that fits your child’s educational goals and your family’s lifestyle.

Start early, research your options, and don’t hesitate to contact schools directly to schedule tours or ask questions. Education is one of the most important investments you’ll make while living abroad.

— The Author, My Life in Saudi

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