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Starting over in a new country can feel daunting. For many families arriving in Abu Dhabi, the search for the right school is about more than academics. It’s about finding a place where children feel safe, where parents feel supported, and where a sense of belonging is felt from the very first day.
At The British International School Abu Dhabi, families often say that this is what sets the school apart.
“When we joined, we didn’t know anybody,” says Sarah Amundson, whose family moved to Abu Dhabi from the United States. “That was the first year we were here in a new country… and to be able to connect, and the school offering so many opportunities…”
She recalls how the experience of joining BIS Abu Dhabi stood out from the very beginning. “[Principal] Mr. Cocker has really established an amazing school community… from the guards at the gate, receptionists, nurses, teachers, and staff, you are always warmly welcomed.”
The Coquand family, who arrived from France in 2024, describe a similar feeling. Christophe, father of two BIS Abu Dhabi students, remembers their first major school event, a community-wide Amazing Race through the city.
“The first one was an Amazing Race across Abu Dhabi and finishing with a joint lunch at school. It was a way to discover the city as well as the BIS Abu Dhabi community, as everything was new,” he says. “We don't know them yet… but taking pictures at the same place, you probably are in BIS Abu Dhabi… and it is a nice way to become part of the community.”
BIS Abu Dhabi is home to students from around the world, but it also offers families a deep connection to the culture of the UAE. Events such as community iftars and Union Day celebrations bring families together and reflect the school’s place within the local context.
“We also attended a community Iftar,” says Christophe. “It was very important for us to attend such an event at BIS Abu Dhabi as well as be part of the local community in the UAE… it's not only a British school, but we are also in the UAE.”
That sense of belonging extends to both students and parents. Sarah highlights events like Kindness Day, Coffee Mornings, and school celebrations as moments where parents feel part of school life, even if they are still settling in.
“I haven’t done parent outings yet because of him,” she says, referring to her youngest child, “but I do join the Coffee Mornings, Union Day, and the community iftars. We really enjoy going too.”
For students, the impact of this environment is just as strong. Christophe reflects on what it means to see his children confident and happy at school. “The way Adrien and Romuald enjoy to go to school… they love it. And as parents it's so important to feel that their kids are confident and genuinely enjoy going to school. Really, it's amazing.”
Sophia, a student who has grown up at BIS Abu Dhabi, puts it simply: “Being in Abu Dhabi for 13, now I think I'm going on my 14th year, it's really...like a home.”
At BIS Abu Dhabi, that feeling of home starts from the moment families walk through the gate.
Hear from Christophe and Romuald Coquand in the video below, as they explain why they chose BIS Abu Dhabi for their family's new chapter in the UAE.
When the Amundson family switched schools in Abu Dhabi, they weren’t just looking for better academics. They were looking for something more personal. A place where teachers noticed when a child needed extra help. A school where progress meant more than just grades.
That’s what they found at The British International School Abu Dhabi. Discover how BIS Abu Dhabi transformed their children's learning journey, and why other families are saying the same.
At BIS Abu Dhabi, curiosity isn’t bound to the classroom, it’s a mindset we nurture year-round. With Curious as our Term 3 ambition, we’re excited to carry this focus into Term 1 next year. Curiosity sparks exploration, strengthens connections, and drives metacognitive awareness; helping children understand how they think when they are curious.
Discover simple thinking routines and summer activities that help children stay curious, reflect on their thinking, and start the new term inspired.
From her very first days in Nursery to her final moments as an IB Diploma graduate, Samsara has spent 15 years growing, learning, and thriving at BIS Abu Dhabi. A true BISAD Baby, she has left a lasting mark not only in the classroom, but across courts, fields and swimming pools. As she reflects on her school journey, Samsara shares how sport became a constant companion, shaping her character, building resilience, and offering balance alongside academic success.
Discover how sport helped shape her unforgettable school experience — and why it could do the same for your child.
Our facilities provide the backdrop to – and inspiration behind – many of our students’ greatest achievements.
From our Creative Technology Zone and 524-seat auditorium to the Team Falcon Sports Academy, every space is designed to enrich learning and unlock endless possibilities.
Curious about what’s coming next? Discover how our latest campus developments will take student learning and parent connection to the next level.
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