

Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi
Secular, Founded 2014
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Shining Star International School is an inclusive private school established in 2014 in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, serving the local and international expatriate community. It follows the CBSE curriculum and focuses on providing a vibrant, values-driven environment that prepares students for the global community.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
Shining Star International School aims to provide a holistic, values-driven education that fosters self-confidence, independence, and character building. It seeks to nurture students into responsible global citizens who use their knowledge and wisdom to benefit their communities and the world. The school emphasizes a culture of gratitude, resilience, and excellence, moving from academic success to personal significance.
Programmes
The school follows the CBSE curriculum across all stages, from Kindergarten to Senior Secondary. The Early Years program focuses on personal, social, and emotional development, while the Primary, Middle, and Secondary sections integrate the National Education Policy 2020, ISTE standards, and experiential learning. The Senior Secondary level offers a range of subjects including sciences, mathematics, business studies, and economics, with a focus on board exam preparation and career counseling.
Outcomes
The school reports that its graduates have successfully transitioned to reputable universities and international organizations. Students are encouraged to develop leadership skills, character, and a sense of global citizenship, with many participating in international projects and competitions. The school tracks student achievement data and celebrates academic and co-scholastic successes.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains a dedicated department for students of determination and counseling. It emphasizes an inclusive environment and provides support to ensure that all students, regardless of their needs, can thrive academically and socially. The leadership team includes a Head of Inclusion to oversee these efforts.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi offer?
- Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi offers CBSE (India).
- How much is tuition at Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi?
- Annual tuition at Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi is AED 8.6K–AED 16.9K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi a day or boarding school?
- Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi is a day school.
- Is Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi co-educational?
- Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi is a co-ed school.
- Where is Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi located?
- Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi is an international school in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| KG1 | 4–4 | AED 8.6K |
| KG2 | 5–5 | AED 8.6K |
| GRADE 1 | 6–6 | AED 10.3K |
| GRADE 2 | 7–7 | AED 11K |
| GRADE 3 | 8–8 | AED 11.6K |
| GRADE 4 | 9–9 | AED 11.6K |
| GRADE 5 | 10–10 | AED 13.7K |
| GRADE 6 | 11–11 | AED 13.7K |
| GRADE 7 | 12–12 | AED 14.8K |
| GRADE 8 | 13–13 | AED 14.8K |
| GRADE 9 | 14–14 | AED 15.9K |
| GRADE 10 | 15–15 | AED 15.8K |
| GRADE 11 | 16–16 | AED 16.9K |
| GRADE 12 | 17–17 | AED 16.9K |
Other fees(4)
| Bus / transportyear· Annual bus fee | AED 4.4K |
|---|---|
| Materialsyear· Varies by grade from 495 AED to 880 AED | — |
| Uniformyear· Varies by grade from 519 AED to 640 AED | — |
| Registration feeone-time· Board Fees: Grade IX: 375 AED, Grade X: 750 AED, Grade XI: 375 AED, Grade XII: 900 AED | — |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 7%-10%
- Full-payment discount: 5%
Admissions
The school accepts applications for all grades, with a process that includes an online registration form, document submission, and a post-admission procedure. Prospective parents are invited to book a visit to the campus on Thursdays and Saturdays between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM to observe classrooms and facilities. The school provides a clear, transparent policy regarding tuition fees, payment installments, and refund conditions.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic year that typically begins in April or September, depending on the grade level and specific academic cycle. The calendar includes scheduled breaks such as winter and spring holidays, as well as public holidays in accordance with local regulations. Parents are provided with detailed information regarding term dates and payment deadlines.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus in Musaffah features a variety of facilities, including a library, computer laboratories with high-speed internet, and specialized science labs for physics, chemistry, and biology. Sports facilities include indoor and outdoor game areas with coaching, and there is a multipurpose auditorium for events and workshops. The school also provides an in-house cafeteria, a health clinic with a qualified nurse, and transport services equipped with GPS tracking.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including sports such as football and karate, as well as arts and cultural programs. Students participate in clubs like the Student Council, TED-Ed Club, Model United Nations (MUN), and various international projects related to the Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, the school features a 'farm in school' curriculum and robotics classes to enhance practical learning.






Sonika KhannaExecutive DirectorMrs. Sonika Khanna holds an English Honors degree and has over 30 years of experience in the metal scrap trade. She established Shining Star International School in 2014, bringing strong operational management skills and a visionary approach to the institution.
Abhilasha SinghPrincipalAbhilasha Singh serves as the Principal of Shining Star International School. She is dedicated to fostering a culture of gratitude, resilience, and excellence within the school community.
- Sim AjayVice Principal
- MalarvizhiAssistant Principal & Head of Phase 1
- Shane Joseph AlliewHead of Secondary
- Shabna ShameelHead of Upper Primary
- Sandhya PrateeshHead of Lower Primary
- Aby DanielHead of Inclusion
- Anurag PhathakSchool Academic Coordinator / Data Analyst & PLD Leader
- Amal ShawkiADEK Coordinator
More international schools in Abu Dhabi
- Dunes International SchoolCBSE (India)
- Private International English SchoolCBSE (India), Montessori
- Emirates Future International AcademyEFIACBSE (India)
- American Community School of Abu Dhabi (ACS)ACSIB Diploma, Advanced Placement
- British International School Abu DhabiBISADBritish EYFS, National Curriculum (England), IGCSE
- Al Bateen Secondary SchoolNational Curriculum (England), IB PYP, IGCSE
CBSE (India)