Finding the right Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi is crucial for expat families wanting to maintain their cultural roots while ensuring academic excellence. Abu Dhabi hosts several reputable Pakistani institutions following the Federal Board (FBISE), Cambridge, or CBSE curricula, offering affordable fees and strong community ties.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 8 Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi, comparing their fee structures, facilities, affiliations, and admission processes. If you’re also exploring other educational options, check out our list of the best schools in Abu Dhabi for a broader perspective.
Why Choose a Pakistani School in Abu Dhabi?
- Familiar Curriculum: Follows FBISE, Cambridge, or CBSE systems.
- Affordable Fees: Lower costs compared to many international schools.
- Cultural Connection: Urdu language, Islamic studies, and Pakistani traditions.
- Strong Community: Active parent-teacher networks and cultural events.
Top 8 Pakistani Schools in Abu Dhabi
1. Pakistan Islamia Higher Secondary School (PIHSS)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | FBISE (Islamabad) |
| Grades | KG to Grade 12 |
| Annual Fees | AED 4,000 – AED 8,000 |
| Branches | Mussafah, Mohammed Bin Zayed City |
| Timings | 7:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Sun-Thu) |
| Affiliation | Federal Board of Intermediate & Secondary Education (FBISE) |
| Facilities | Science labs, sports grounds, Islamic studies |
| Admission | January-March (Documents: Passport, visa, previous report card) |
What Parents Say:
“After transferring from a private British school, we worried our kids would struggle with Urdu medium – but PIHSS teachers gave such personalized attention that they adapted within months. The discipline here reminds me of how we studied back in Lahore, right down to the morning assembly dua. Just wish they’d upgrade their playground equipment.”
*- Mrs. Khan, Mother of Grade 5 & 7 students*
- Email: info@pihss.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
Why Choose PIHSS?
One of the oldest Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi, PIHSS is known for its disciplined environment and strong academic record.
2. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Pakistani School (SKZPS)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | FBISE & Cambridge (O/A Levels) |
| Grades | KG to Grade 12 |
| Annual Fees | AED 5,000 – AED 10,000 |
| Branches | Mohammed Bin Zayed City |
| Timings | 7:45 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Affiliation | FBISE & Cambridge International |
| Facilities | Smart classrooms, robotics lab, cricket academy |
| Admission | Rolling admissions (Priority for Pakistani nationals) |
What Parents Say:
“We chose SKZPS specifically for its Cambridge stream – our daughter wants to study medicine in the UK. The science teachers are phenomenal, but the admin can be disorganized during admission season. The cricket coaching is so good that my son made the Abu Dhabi inter-school team!”
*- Dr. Ahmed, Father of Grade 9 & 11 students*
- Email: info@skbzps.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
Why SKZPS?
A top choice among Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi for its dual curriculum and modern facilities.
3. Al Falah Pakistani School
What Parents Say:
“As a single mother working in retail, Al Falah’s fees were the only ones I could afford. The teachers treat us like family – when I couldn’t pick up my son after surgery, the principal drove him home herself. Yes, the buildings are old, but the heart in this place is gold.”
*- Ms. Rahman, Mother of Grade 3 student*
- Email: info@alfalahschool.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
Key Feature: Most budget-friendly option.
4. Pakistan Community Welfare School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | FBISE |
| Grades | KG to Grade 12 |
| Annual Fees | AED 4,500 – AED 9,000 |
| Branches | Mussafah |
| Timings | 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Affiliation | FBISE |
| Facilities | Computer lab, Quran classes |
| Admission | Priority for embassy staff |
What Parents Say:
“The embassy connections give this school unique advantages – our son got to meet the Pakistani ambassador during career day! They handle all attestation paperwork for us, which is a huge relief. Just be prepared for strict uniform checks – even sock color matters here.”
*- Mr. & Mrs. Baig, Parents of Grade 6 twins*
- Email: info@pcws.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
Key Feature: Strong embassy ties.
5. Bright Star Pakistani School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | CBSE |
| Grades | KG to Grade 12 |
| Annual Fees | AED 6,000 – AED 12,000 |
| Branches | Khalifa City |
| Timings | 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Affiliation | Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) |
| Facilities | STEM lab, swimming pool |
| Admission | Entrance test required |
What Parents Say:
*”We switched from an Indian CBSE school to Bright Star for the Pakistani cultural environment, and don’t regret it. The math teachers are especially strong – our daughter’s grades improved 20%. The swimming pool is cleaner than some 5-star hotels we’ve visited!”*
*- The Malik Family, Parents of KG & Grade 4 students*
- Email: info@brightstarschool.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
Key Feature: Only CBSE-affiliated Pakistani school in Abu Dhabi.
6. Emirates Pakistani School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | FBISE with optional Quran memorization program |
| Grades | Playgroup to Grade 10 |
| Annual Fees | AED 5,200 – AED 9,800 |
| Branches | Al Shahama (Main campus) |
| Timings | 7:15 AM – 1:45 PM (Early dismissal on Fridays) |
| Affiliation | FBISE with Wifaq ul Madaris accreditation for Islamic studies |
| Facilities | Air-conditioned playground, separate prayer rooms for boys/girls |
| Admission | Open enrollment (Arabic proficiency test for non-native speakers) |
What Parents Say:
Emirates Pakistani School stands out for its unique blend of modern education and traditional Islamic values. The school’s Hafiz-e-Quran program allows students to memorize the Holy Quran alongside regular studies, a feature particularly valued by conservative families. While the facilities may not be as lavish as international schools, the warm community atmosphere and emphasis on character building make it a popular choice among Pakistani expats living near Al Shahama.
- Email: info@emiratespakistanischool.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
7. Al Najah Pakistani School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | FBISE with technical stream options |
| Grades | Grade 1 to Grade 12 |
| Annual Fees | AED 6,500 – AED 11,000 |
| Branches | Al Wahda (Main campus) |
| Timings | 7:00 AM – 2:15 PM (Extended hours for technical students) |
| Affiliation | FBISE with TEVTA certification for vocational courses |
| Facilities | Computer-aided design lab, automotive workshop, commerce stream |
| Admission | Technical stream requires aptitude test (Grade 9 onwards) |
The Practical Choice:
Al Najah fills an important niche among Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi by offering technical education pathways rarely found in other institutions. Students can opt for electrical, mechanical, or business tracks starting from Grade 9, making it ideal for families who want their children to gain employable skills. The school’s partnership with Pakistani technical boards means graduates receive certifications recognized back home, a crucial factor for families planning eventual repatriation.
- Email: info@alnajahschool.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
8. Capital Pakistani School
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | FBISE with British Council English enhancement |
| Grades | KG to Grade 12 |
| Annual Fees | AED 7,000 – AED 14,000 |
| Branches | Al Karamah (Flagship campus) |
| Timings | 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM (Longer day includes remedial classes) |
| Affiliation | FBISE with IELTS preparation partnership |
| Facilities | British Council-certified language lab, university counseling center |
| Admission | English proficiency interview (Grades 6-12) |
Bridging Two Worlds:
Capital Pakistani School has carved a reputation as the most Western-accommodating among Pakistani institutions in Abu Dhabi. Their unique British Council collaboration means students graduate with strong English competencies while maintaining their Urdu fluency. Many alumni successfully transition to universities in Pakistan, the UAE, and even Western countries – a testament to the school’s balanced approach. The extended school day includes mandatory homework supervision, easing the burden on working parents.
- Email: info@capitalpakistanischool.ae
- Phone: +971 2 642 2112
Comparison Table: Quick Overview
| School | Curriculum | Fees (AED) | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| PIHSS | FBISE | 4,000-8,000 | Mussafah |
| SKZPS | FBISE/Cambridge | 5,000-10,000 | MBZ City |
| Al Falah | FBISE | 3,500-7,000 | Al Nahyan |
| Bright Star | CBSE | 6,000-12,000 | Khalifa City |
The Cultural Dimension of Pakistani Schools
Beyond academics, these institutions serve as cultural anchors for the Pakistani diaspora. Annual events like Basant kite festivals, Mehfil-e-Milad competitions, and Independence Day celebrations transform schools into community hubs. During Ramadan, modified schedules accommodate Taraweeh prayers and Quran recitation circles.
What surprises many newcomers is how these schools adapt Pakistani traditions to the UAE context. For instance, Arabic is taught as a compulsory subject meeting UAE Ministry requirements, while Urdu literature classes preserve linguistic heritage. Sports days often feature both cricket matches (for the Pakistani contingent) and football tournaments (to engage local Emirati peers).
Admission Tips for Pakistani Schools in Abu Dhabi
- Documents Needed: Passport copies, Emirates ID, previous school reports.
- Entrance Tests: Required by some schools (e.g., Bright Star).
- Early Application: Top schools like SKZPS fill seats by March.
Final Verdict
Recent years have seen Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi modernize infrastructure while preserving cultural identity. Smartboards are now commonplace, and several institutions have introduced robotics programs. However, the essence remains unchanged – these schools continue to be places where children learn both the scientific method and the value of saying “Assalamualaikum” when greeting teachers.
For parents torn between cultural preservation and global readiness, the current generation of Pakistani schools offers a third way – one that prepares students to thrive in both the majlis and the multinational boardroom.
- Best for FBISE: PIHSS
- Best for CBSE: Bright Star
- Most Affordable: Al Falah
For more options, see our list of best schools in Abu Dhabi.
About the Author
Mohsin Shabbir is a seasoned real estate professional with years of experience in Dubai’s property market. With over 10+ years in Dubai, Mohsin is now a well knowledge individual who has hands on experience and data of everything related to Emirates of Dubai. As a trusted agent at AG Luxury Properties, Mohsin specializes in helping clients find their dream homes and investment opportunities in Dubai. With a deep understanding of the city’s real estate landscape, Mohsin is committed to providing personalized and professional services to meet your needs.
If you’re looking to buy, sell, or rent properties in Dubai, feel free to reach out to Mohsin Shabbir for expert guidance. You can contact him directly through his AG Luxury Properties profile or via email at mohsin.shabbir@agluxuryproperties.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pakistani Schools in Abu Dhabi
1. Which is the best Pakistani school in Abu Dhabi for FBISE curriculum?
Answer:
Pakistan Islamia Higher Secondary School (PIHSS) is considered the gold standard for FBISE education, with a 40-year track record of excellent board exam results. However, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Pakistani School offers both FBISE and Cambridge options for families wanting flexibility.
2. What’s the average fee range for Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi?
Answer:
Fees typically range from:
- Budget: AED 3,500 – AED 6,000/year (Al Falah, PIHSS)
- Mid-range: AED 6,000 – AED 10,000/year (Emirates, Al Najah)
- Premium: AED 10,000 – AED 14,000/year (Bright Star, Capital)
3. Do these schools offer transportation?
Answer:
Most Pakistani schools in Abu Dhabi provide bus services (AED 1,200 – AED 2,500/year), with routes covering:
- Central Abu Dhabi (Khalifa City, Al Nahyan)
- Suburbs (Mussafah, MBZ City)
Note: Buses lack AC in some older schools like PIHSS.
4. How do admissions work for Pakistani expats?
Answer:
The process usually requires:
- Documents: Passport copies, Emirates ID, previous school reports
- Assessment: Urdu/English tests for Grades 2+
- Priority: Given to Pakistani passport holders during enrollment
5. Are there scholarships available?
Answer:
Limited need-based scholarships exist at:
- SKZPS (25% fee waiver for top scorers)
- Capital Pakistani School (Sibling discounts)
Tip: Ask about “zakat funds” at smaller schools like Al Falah.