Admissions are now open for 2025/2026
In July 1971, six of the Trucial States (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Ajman, and Fujairah) agreed on a Federal Constitution for achieving independence as the United Arab Emirates. The UAE became independent on 2nd December 1971.
The UAE National Day is a celebration of the union of the six Emirates while Ras Al Khaimah joined on 10th February 1972 making a total of seven Emirates. These seven Emirates combined to form a worldwide modern country, headed by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the country’s first president.
At the British International School Abu Dhabi, National Day is one of the highlights of our year and will remain so, even if it is an adapted version to reflect the current restrictions in place. For new members of the BIS Abu Dhabi community, the National Day celebrations at the school and throughout Abu Dhabi are a great way to learn more about the UAE, its traditions and its history. There will be many exciting events to help understand Emirati culture and the pride and welcoming nature of the UAE so please do take the time to observe and enjoy many of the activities planned whilst always adhering to the safety precautions we are all now so well aware of.
National Day celebrations mean that school will be closed from the 1st December until the 3rd December inclusive so that we can reflect upon how much has been achieved in such a short period of time under the leadership and guidance from the rulers of this country.
Mike Wolfe,
Vice Principal
I was really touched by Áine’s newsletter piece last week, posing the question: ‘What would I tell my younger self?’
I spent some time afterwards thinking about my own parenting journey, and what it’s all been about, now that my two are adults and have ‘flown the nest’. Parenting isn’t easy for any of us, and that’s true even if you’re an experienced school leader – at home, I’m just Dad.
The British International School Abu Dhabi (BIS Abu Dhabi) was deeply honoured to welcome Her Highness Sheikha Shamma Bint Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan to its campus on Thursday, 17 April 2025. Her Highness, President & CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA) and The Climate Tribe, is a distinguished entrepreneur, thought leader, and researcher with a deep commitment to sustainability, climate change, and gender equity.
You might have seen the trend going around - “If I could tell my younger self one thing…” - a moment to reflect, to offer advice we wish we’d heard earlier, or to remind ourselves of what truly matters.
As students prepare to cross some of the biggest milestones in school life, it feels like the perfect time to pause and join in that conversation. But it’s not just our students who are preparing — so are we, as parents. These milestones don’t just belong to them. We’re living every part of it too: the anticipation, the pride, the nerves, and the quiet hopes. Sometimes, it’s the hardest thing in the world — to watch them take these big steps, to stay strong when they wobble, to let go just a little more. It’s a milestone for us as much as it is for them — and we’re walking it together.
Finding the right school for your child is a big decision. Whether you’re new to Abu Dhabi, transitioning from another school, or simply looking for the best fit, we know it can feel overwhelming. At The British International School (BIS) Abu Dhabi, we’re here to make that journey as smooth and reassuring as possible. From your very first enquiry to your child’s first day (and beyond), we’ll be with you every step of the way. This article tackles the key concerns families face when transitioning to a new school, offering clear insights into our admissions process to ensure a smooth and informed journey.
Admissions: +971 2 510 0176
Admissions: admissions@bisad.ae
HR: hr@bisad.ae
We use cookies to improve your online experiences. To learn more and choose your cookies options, please refer to our cookie policy.