
Virginia American School (VAS)
Part of Aldar Education, Secular
Updated July 2026
Virginia American School is a premier American-curriculum school located in Shakhbout City, Abu Dhabi, and a member of the Aldar Education group. It serves students from Pre-KG through Grade 12, focusing on a STEAM-based approach to education.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school operates under the "REACH" philosophy, which centers on the core values of respect, empathy, aspiration, courage, and honesty. It is committed to an inclusive environment that fosters a lifelong passion for learning and encourages students to think critically and innovate. The school aims to develop learners who are committed to the values of the UAE and who become future leaders.
Programmes
The school offers an American-based curriculum from Pre-KG through Grade 12, with a strong emphasis on the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). The academic programme utilizes American textbooks and is delivered by a faculty that includes native English speakers. The curriculum is designed to be rigorous and well-balanced, supporting student development at every stage from early childhood through secondary school.
Outcomes
The school is NEASC accredited and is an official College Board SAT testing center, facilitating student access to universities globally. It is rated "Good" by ADEK and focuses on developing students into future community leaders. The school emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and inquiry-based learning to help students reach their full potential.
Student support
Learning support
The school maintains a dedicated student services department staffed by trained professionals to provide information, advice, guidance, and support for non-academic inquiries. A school counselor and child protection coordinator, as well as a head of inclusion, are part of the leadership team to support student well-being and inclusive education.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Virginia American School (VAS) offer?
- Virginia American School (VAS) offers US Common Core.
- How much is tuition at Virginia American School (VAS)?
- Annual tuition at Virginia American School (VAS) is AED 27.9K–AED 45.2K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Virginia American School (VAS) hold?
- Virginia American School (VAS) holds accreditations including NEASC.
- Is Virginia American School (VAS) co-educational?
- Virginia American School (VAS) is a co-ed school.
- Where is Virginia American School (VAS) located?
- Virginia American School (VAS) is an international school in Musaffah, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| PRE-KG | 3–4 | AED 27.9K |
| KG1 | 4–5 | AED 27.9K |
| KG2 | 5–6 | AED 27.9K |
| Grade 1 | 6–7 | AED 32.5K |
| Grade 2 | 7–8 | AED 33.7K |
| Grade 3 | 8–9 | AED 34.8K |
| Grade 4 | 9–10 | AED 35.9K |
| Grade 5 | 10–11 | AED 37.2K |
| Grade 6 | 11–12 | AED 38.3K |
| Grade 7 | 12–13 | AED 39.4K |
| Grade 8 | 13–14 | AED 40.6K |
| Grade 9 | 14–15 | AED 41.8K |
| Grade 10 | 15–16 | AED 43K |
| Grade 11 | 16–17 | AED 44.1K |
| Grade 12 | 17–18 | AED 45.2K |
Other fees(1)
| Bus / transport· Bus Fee | AED 5K |
|---|
Discounts
- Sibling discount: AED 500 per student
Admissions
Admissions are open for the 2025-2026 academic year for students from Pre-KG through Grade 12. The school provides an online inquiry and registration process, and prospective families are encouraged to book a school tour or take a virtual tour. Tuition fees are structured by grade level, with sibling discounts and a referral program available. Payment plans are offered through partnerships with banks such as FAB, ADIB, and ENBD.
Calendar
The school provides a downloadable calendar for the academic year. The school day structure and specific term dates are managed to support the academic programme.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus in Shakhbout City features modern infrastructure, including smart-equipped classrooms with smart board technology and access to online learning materials. Facilities include a library, music rooms, art rooms, a gym, and an "Imagination room" for younger students. Recent expansions include a new building with 13 classrooms, 3 labs, a learning hub, a multi-purpose hall, and a semi-Olympic swimming pool. Shaded playgrounds are provided specifically for KG1 and KG2 age groups.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities designed to support the overall development of students. These include sports, music, arts, and various trips and visits. The programme is designed to strengthen the school's commitment to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and encourages student-centered projects and community events.





- Bassam SaryeddinePrincipal
Bassam Saryeddine has worked as an educator in the UAE for over 15 years. He is committed to the vision of Aldar Education and the school's REACH philosophy.
- Andy CollinsActing Vice Principal
- Shawn BrianAssistant Principal Teaching, Assessment, and Curriculum
- Rania AklHead of Kindergarten
- Gloria D’SouzaAssistant Principal Elementary
- Nawal MoukarzelAssistant Principal Secondary
- Dima AhmedSchool Counselor and Child Protection Coordinator
More international schools in Musaffah
- Horizon Private School - Branch, Khalifa CityHPS-Br.US Common Core, NGSS
- American School of Creative ScienceUS Common Core, NGSS
- Ajyal International SchoolNational Curriculum (England), British EYFS, IGCSE
- Diyafah International SchoolDISNational Curriculum (England), IGCSE, Cambridge A-Level
- Reach British SchoolNational Curriculum (England)
- Mayoor Private School, Abu DhabiCBSE (India)
US Common Core
NEASC