Canadian International School, Abu Dhabi

  • Founded: 2007
  • Address: Khalifa City - A - Abu Dhabi, UAE (Map)
  • Tel: Show Number

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Our school has established a solid foundation of academic excellence as well as a warm, inclusive environment in which all of our students feel valued and welcome. Our school is accredited by Alberta Education of Canada. The Alberta curriculum is focused on student-centered inquiry learning, which teaches our students to be independent, critical thinkers and possess skills to adapt and excel in different situations and environments. An Alberta high school diploma is internationally recognized and enables students to competitively apply to universities and jobs all over the world. The school strives to provide instructional programs that motivate our students to become life-long learners and to improve our students’ self-esteem and confidence as they become ethical citizens and leaders in a global society. In addition to our outstanding academic program, our students enjoy a wealth of extra-curricular activities, clubs and opportunities to demonstrate excellence.

As a testament to one of the cornerstones of our Vision Statement — to respect diversity — CIS students represent about 70 different nationalities, including Canadian (22%), Emirati (14%), American (13%), and British (5%).

Enrollment is open to English-speaking students who are likely to be successful in the challenging Inquiry-based Canadian curriculum. Our students are encouraged to work hard and play hard. They are supported through the rigorous Alberta curriculum by caring teachers who seek to make success stories of each student. On the other hand, they are also urged to contribute to CIS’s flourishing community through participation in sports, clubs, school improvement initiatives and community service opportunities.

A CIS student is one who is respectful and demands respect in return. A CIS student is one who embraces challenges. A CIS student is one who is learning to be a self-directed thinker and who is preparing himself or herself to be a leader in tomorrow’s technological, international, fast-paced world. A CIS student knows that upon graduation he or she will be ready to take on the world!

At the Canadian International School Abu Dhabi (CIS), our commitment to our students is embodied in our school motto – “Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow”. The faculty and students of CIS strive to reinforce this motto each and every day.

CIS provides an inspiring and dynamic educational environment where students embrace challenge, respect diversity, and achieve their personal best. With KG – Grade 12 programming based on the world-renowned Alberta curriculum, enriched Advanced Placement programming at the secondary level, and the local Abu Dhabi Education and Knowledge (ADEK) curricula, CIS students are amongst the most well-rounded and academically enriched in the region.

Co-curricular and extra-curricular programming, including over 30 athletic teams, Duke of Edinburgh and National Honors Society ensures a positive environment which fosters school spirit and several opportunities for student leadership. Graduates from CIS are recruited and seamlessly transition to top post-secondary institutions around the world.

Parents, staff and a strong network of community partners work collaboratively to support our students and build a family orientated environment that is safe and supportive. We CREATE an environment for student success. Students at CIS are:

  • Challenged
  • Respected
  • Encouraged
  • Academic, Athletic, Artistic
  • Thinkers
  • Empowered

We look forward to welcoming you to the amazing environment which is CIS Abu Dhabi!

CIS enjoys the benefits of a new and modern compound in Khalifa City A, a neighbourhood located approximately 30 km from downtown Abu Dhabi. Our facilities feature a bright three-story main building with walls of windows allowing students to learn in the splendor of natural light. The main building consists of six wings, with Kindergarten-Grade 1 on the first floor, Grade 2-5 on the second floor, and Grades 6-12 on the third floor. This building also holds two libraries, science labs, a computer lab, two elementary art rooms, administration offices, and an inviting lobby with a fountain and soaring windows. Most classrooms are equipped with interactive smart boards and all classrooms have individual temperature controls.

The CIS Annex Building houses a gymnasium, a newly renovated 25-foot indoor pool, a majestic music room, a dance studio and an enormous art studio where students have the space to create amazing works of art.

The campus also includes a grass soccer field, a central courtyard, a separate elementary school playground and an indoor, air-conditioned Kindergarten playground.

  • Leadership: Dr. Shawn O’Neill (Principal)
  • Curriculum: Canadian
  • Annual Fees: AED 39,010 - 51,820 - See all fees
  • Rating: Outstanding (ADEK) - View Report
  • Gender: Mixed (Co-education)
  • Grades or Year Groups: KG to Grade 12
  • Number of Staff: 150
  • Number of Students: 1000
  • Postal Code: 3976
  • Tel: Show Number
  • Visit Website
  • Timings: Mon to Fri | 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM

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Community Reviews (11)

This school is the best school ever, the people here are respectful, and if anything happens, the staff take immidite action. 20/20, I didnt know any math but since cis it has been so much easier.
By Omar amari (Dec, 2024) | Reply

The education at this Abu Dhabi school is truly transformative; the dedicated staff inspire our children to excel, and I've witnessed remarkable growth in their confidence and skills.
By Anil Patel (Sep, 2024) | Reply

Speaking of Kg1 and 2 , they are just amazing ! Our first teacher Ms. Yamama made the whole process way easier than it was. She was caring,loving and knows how to discipline without frightening them. Now we are Kg2, and with another great teacher that is Ms.Ame ! Oh and of course Ms. Caitlyn. They already knew my son from last year and things really feel like family now. My pre school is definitely going to CIS next year inshallah as well and im hoping the negative comments ive heard about greater classes are not as mentioned.
By UmSaqr Khaled (Sep, 2024) | Reply

The principal of this school is wonderful and he seems to take care of every student of the school. Teachers are invaluable and take the time to help all their students reach their full potential. Teachers not only help the children in their class but also do their best to help all the students.
By Gayathri Abdu (Jun, 2022) | Reply

My sun is going to kg1 class this year the school is amazing , teachers are more than great our teacher is miss Susan my son loves her she talks a lot with kids just like If she is their mother and she comes down to kids level and I love that she’s so kind to kidsAny way the school environment is great
By Mona ahmed (May, 2021) | Reply

My son is learning happily. Teachers are friendly and very professional. the environment is safe, welcoming and discipline is amazing. I love CIS, and it's been 10 yrs.
By Triple Flair (Apr, 2019) | Reply

i used to go to this school and i wish i could come back, it was amazing, the teachers explain things very well and answer your questions very well, they are also very nice and caring but at the same time they discipline the students well, i recommend to send your child here.
By daiki (Jul, 2018) | Reply

CIS Abu Dhabi is indeed a high caliber school that focuses on children's development and wellbeing. Both my children have been growing with CIS for over 5 years. I am pleased with the school atmosphere, care and attention to learning however I believe additional after school activities and trips will add to the children's leaning experience & give an edge to the school. Well done CIS, we love you!!
By Nivine Ali (May, 2017) | Reply

It's the most amazing school in the world, you learn responsibility and you gain lots of friends too, everyone's very friendly, it has a very high percentage of education, it's honestly the best school ever.
By Sarah Joseph (Oct, 2016) | Reply

A very good school that cares about the students. Nobody is a number but one big family feeling. They have a Band A grading by ADEC and have a good curriculum and lovely teachers.
By Guest Member (Jul, 2013) | Reply