How do I choose an international school in Saudi Arabia?
A guide to international schools in Riyadh, Jeddah and Khobar: curricula, typical annual fees, waiting lists, and the documents needed for admission.
Checked against official sources: November 2026
Which schools do expats look at?
| City | Examples | Curricula |
|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | American International School Riyadh, British International School Riyadh | American, British, IB |
| Jeddah | American International School of Jeddah, British International School of Jeddah | American, British, IB |
| Khobar and Dhahran | International Schools Group (ISG) | American, British |
What does admission involve?
- Previous school reports, typically for two years
- Passport and Iqama or visa documents
- Vaccination records
- An entrance assessment or interview
What other costs should I expect?
Application and registration fees, uniforms, books and the school bus often come on top of tuition. Ask for the complete fee sheet, and find out how refunds work if you leave mid-year.
How should I choose?
Start with the curriculum your child will need if you move again, then work out the commute. A daily ride across Riyadh in rush hour can take over an hour each way. Check the licensing with the Ministry of Education if a school is new to you.
Common questions
Can my child start mid-year?
Often yes, where places exist, but the most popular schools fill their year groups early.