Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi logo

Shining Star International School Abu Dhabi

Secular, Founded 2014

Updated July 2026

Co-edGender
DayType
For-profitOwnership

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.

Term structure

Three terms

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

EAL support
Unknown
Learning support
Dedicated department

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
Annual tuition by grade
GradeAgesAnnual
KG14–4AED 8.6K
KG25–5AED 8.6K
GRADE 16–6AED 10.3K
GRADE 27–7AED 11K
GRADE 38–8AED 11.6K
GRADE 49–9AED 11.6K
GRADE 510–10AED 13.7K
GRADE 611–11AED 13.7K
GRADE 712–12AED 14.8K
GRADE 813–13AED 14.8K
GRADE 914–14AED 15.9K
GRADE 1015–15AED 15.8K
GRADE 1116–16AED 16.9K
GRADE 1217–17AED 16.9K
Other fees(4)
Other fees
Bus / transportyear· Annual bus feeAED 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

LibraryScience labsGymnasiumTheatre / auditoriumPlayground

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 Khanna
    Sonika KhannaExecutive Director

    Mrs. 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 Singh
    Abhilasha SinghPrincipal

    Abhilasha 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