
The Gulf International Private Academy
Part of Al Sheraifi Group, Secular, Founded 2001
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
Languages
The Gulf International Private Academy (GIPA) is a private, co-educational, English-medium school in Al Ain, UAE, offering an accredited K-12 American curriculum. Established in 2001, the school serves a diverse international community and utilizes a technology-integrated approach to education.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school aims to empower students to believe, achieve, and succeed by fostering a challenging, intellectually stimulating, and technologically advanced environment. It emphasizes the development of global citizens who are grounded in UAE values and identity, while promoting a culture of respect, curiosity, and lifelong learning.
Programmes
GIPA offers an inclusive K-12 American curriculum accredited by Cognia. The academic programme integrates US educational platforms and resources, with students provided with iPads and electronic textbooks. The school is a member of the College Board and provides preparation for higher education, with gender-separated classrooms implemented from Grade 4 onwards in accordance with local regulations.
Outcomes
The school is accredited by Cognia and maintains a 'Band A' (Good) rating from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). It serves as a testing center for SAT, ACT, and AP examinations, and its curriculum is designed to prepare students for entry into US and international universities.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides for additional educational needs and ensures staff are trained in supporting students with diverse requirements. Professional development for teachers includes specific training on meeting students' special educational needs to ensure inclusive practice.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does The Gulf International Private Academy offer?
- The Gulf International Private Academy offers Advanced Placement.
- How much is tuition at The Gulf International Private Academy?
- Annual tuition at The Gulf International Private Academy is AED 12.8K–AED 27.8K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does The Gulf International Private Academy hold?
- The Gulf International Private Academy holds accreditations including Cognia.
- Is The Gulf International Private Academy co-educational?
- The Gulf International Private Academy is a co-ed school.
- Where is The Gulf International Private Academy located?
- The Gulf International Private Academy is an international school in Al Ain City, United Arab Emirates.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| KG 1 | 4–5 | AED 12.8K |
| KG 2 | 5–6 | AED 12.8K |
| Grade 1 | 6–7 | AED 14.6K |
| Grade 2 | 7–8 | AED 14.7K |
| Grade 3 | 8–9 | AED 15.2K |
| Grade 4 | 9–10 | AED 16.2K |
| Grade 5 | 10–11 | AED 16.6K |
| Grade 6 | 11–12 | AED 17.5K |
| Grade 7 | 12–13 | AED 20.6K |
| Grade 8 | 13–14 | AED 21.3K |
| Grade 9 | 14–15 | AED 22.8K |
| Grade 10 | 15–16 | AED 25.3K |
| Grade 11 | 16–17 | AED 26.6K |
| Grade 12 | 17–18 | AED 27.8K |
Other fees(3)
| Bus / transport· Annual bus fee for all grades | AED 3.5K |
|---|---|
| Uniform· Uniform fees range from 300 AED to 500 AED depending on the grade (KG1-KG2: 300 AED, Grade 1-6: 350 AED, Grade 7-9: 450 AED, Grade 10-12: 500 AED) | — |
| Materials· Book fees range from 590 AED to 4,000 AED depending on the grade | — |
Admissions
The school maintains a formal registration policy and process for students from KG to Grade 12. Prospective families are required to submit specific documentation as part of the application process, with details available through the school's online registration portal.
Calendar
The school operates on a weekly schedule from Sunday to Thursday. The daily timetable runs from 7:40 am to 1:50 pm for all students.
Facilities
About the campus
The school operates across two campuses in Al Ain. Campus 1 serves foundation students in grades 2-3 (mixed) and boys in grades 4-12, featuring basketball and volleyball courts, soccer fields, and science labs. Campus 2 caters to female students in grades 4-12 and students in KG and Grade 1, offering an auditorium, library, art room, and specialized science labs for chemistry, physics, and biology. Both campuses are equipped with interactive technology, including smart screens and Apple TV, and provide students with iPads to support a paperless learning environment.
Co-curriculars
Students engage in a variety of community service initiatives, including collaborations with the UAE Red Crescent. The school also facilitates activities that prepare students for college and career life through partnerships with local institutions such as the UAE University, Al Ain Science and Technology University, Abu Dhabi University, and NYU Abu Dhabi. Additionally, the school is an active member of UNESCO, focusing on global goals such as sustainability, innovation, and wellness.






- Sarah ShahinPrincipal
Sarah Shahin serves as the Principal of The Gulf International Private Academy (GIPA), where she focuses on fostering a culture of rigor, curiosity, and academic excellence. She emphasizes a holistic approach to education that supports diverse learning styles and prepares students for higher education and global citizenship.
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Advanced Placement
Cognia