SAMA International Schools (SIS)

The school's vision is to inspire excellence, empower minds, and shape global citizens through innovation, diversity, and international education. It values respect, integrity, excellence, collaboration, compassion, innovation, and balance. The educational approach focuses on teaching students how to think rather than what to think, blending American academic standards with the inquiry-based philosophy of the International Baccalaureate.

The school is an IB World School authorized for the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Career-related Programme (CP). The curriculum is aligned with California/Common Core American standards and is delivered through an inquiry-based lens. Multilingual learning is a core component, with Italian taught as a second language alongside English and Arabic.

The school aims to develop confident, responsible, and globally minded learners who are prepared for the future. Its curriculum provides global portability, supporting transitions to leading colleges and employers worldwide. Students are encouraged to become ethical leaders, critical thinkers, and compassionate individuals.

The school emphasizes a student-centered environment where every child is known, valued, and supported. It prioritizes social, emotional, and physical wellbeing alongside academic growth, maintaining open communication with families to ensure individual needs are met.

The school accepts applications for students from Pre-K through Grade 11. Prospective families are encouraged to book a school tour, and the admissions process involves submitting an application through the school's portal. A non-refundable registration or re-registration fee is required to secure a seat.

The school operates on a three-term academic year. For the 2025–2026 academic year, Term 1 fees are due on September 1, 2025, Term 2 on December 1, 2025, and Term 3 on March 1, 2026. The school day typically runs from Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The campus in Khalifa City features purpose-built, technology-enabled classrooms and Reggio Emilia-inspired preschool spaces. Facilities include indoor and outdoor play areas, swimming and diving pools, and sports academies. The school also provides a canteen for meal services and offers bus transportation covering various areas in Abu Dhabi.

The school offers a variety of after-school activities, including football for boys and girls, table tennis, and a chess academy. These programmes are designed to support student wellbeing, leadership, and personal growth. Additionally, the school hosts events such as World Book Day, National Day, Culture Day, and Pink Day through the SIS Parent Group.