Best Schools in Riyadh: What Expats Need to Know
- Sarah Green
- Apr 6, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 16
Relocating to Riyadh with children in tow? Then finding the right school will quickly climb to the top of your to-do list — probably somewhere between “sort housing” and “figure out if I can live without Lidl.”
For many families researching the best schools in Riyadh, education becomes the decision that shapes everything else — from where you live to how long your daily commute will be.
And rightly so. School is where your child will spend the lion’s share of their day, forge friendships, and settle into their new life. It’s also where you, as a parent, start to build your community.
The good news? Riyadh is fast becoming a hub for high-quality international education, with an impressive mix of long-established favourites and shiny new openings. Whether you're after GCSEs, IB, or a US curriculum – there’s something for everyone.
Below, we’ve rounded up the very best international schools in Riyadh for 2025 – complete with curriculum info, founding dates, and all-important location tips.
Planning a move to Riyadh?
Schools are only one piece of the relocation puzzle.
When we first moved to Saudi Arabia, I quickly realised how many practical details there were to figure out — housing, healthcare, schools, visas, transport and simply learning how the city works.
To make life easier for families preparing the move, I’ve put together a Saudi Arabia Relocation Checklist.
It covers the key things expats usually wish they’d known before arriving.
• visas and paperwork
• school applications and timelines
• housing and neighbourhoods
• healthcare registration
• essential apps and services
What Are the Best Schools in Riyadh for Expat Families?
When expat families begin researching education in Saudi Arabia, one of the first questions they ask is: what are the best schools in Riyadh?
The city now offers a wide range of international schools covering British, IB, American and other curricula. Each school has its own strengths, community and admissions process, which is why many families spend months researching their options before relocating.
Why Choosing the Right School in Riyadh Matters for Expats
Choosing a school in Riyadh is as much about feel as it is about facts. Visit campuses, speak to heads, and ask other parents (local Facebook groups can be goldmines). Riyadh’s school scene is dynamic, diverse, and increasingly impressive – whether you're after a traditional British education, a progressive IB approach, or something in between.
If you're planning your move, you may also find these guides helpful:
How to get your Saudi drivers license
Some of the Best International Schools in Riyadh
British International School Riyadh (BISR)
Curriculum: British (GCSEs and A-Levels)
Ages: 3–18
Established: 1979
Districts: four campus across the city... Al Hamra, Al Waha, Diplomatic Quarter (DQ) & Al Sharq
Why we rate it: Solid, reputable, and community-minded. BISR is a trusted name with multiple campuses and a no-fuss British approach. Loved by embassy families and those seeking stability.
American International School – Riyadh (AIS-R)
Curriculum: American, with IB Diploma
Ages: Pre-K to Grade 12
Established: 1963
District: An Narjis, North Riyadh
Why we rate it: Long-established and progressive, AIS-R blends strong academics with a creative ethos. Think diverse student body, excellent college counselling, and strong sports/art provision.
King’s College Riyadh
Curriculum: British
Ages: 3–18
Established: 2021
District: Diriyah
Why we rate it: A fresh, gleaming campus backed by 140+ years of UK heritage. Known for pastoral care, extracurriculars, and a rounded approach. Set near the beautiful heritage zone of Diriyah.
Downe House Riyadh
Curriculum: British (IGCSE and A-Level)
Ages: 3–18
Established: 2022
District: Al Aqiq
Why we rate it: Riyadh’s first premium British all-girls’ school – and it’s fabulous. Expect academic rigour, confidence-building, and a focus on female leadership.
Reigate Grammar School Riyadh
Curriculum: British
Ages: 3–18
Established: 2022
Districts: Ghirnatah, Qurtubah
Why we rate it: Warm, modern and values-driven. Reigate brings its UK ethos of kindness and academic ambition to Riyadh with flair.
Aldenham Prep Riyadh
Curriculum: British
Ages: 3–13
Established: 2022
District: As Sahafah
Why we rate it: A small, nurturing prep school with big ambitions. Traditional roots with a forward-looking twist. Great for younger children.
Beech Hall School Riyadh
Curriculum: American (IB framework)
Ages: 3–18
Established: 2022
District: Al Khuzama
Why we rate it: For families who value emotional intelligence as much as academics. Individualised learning and a strong pastoral culture.
Khaled International Schools (KiS)
Curriculum: American (AP + IB candidate)
Ages: Preschool–Grade 12
Established: 1995
District: Ar Rabwah
Why we rate it: A reliable mid-range option with a focus on holistic, values-based education. Popular with long-term expat families.
Al Forsan International Schools
Curriculum: American
Ages: KG–Grade 12
Established: 2013
Districts: Al Izdihar, Al Qirawan
Why we rate it: Ideal for families looking to balance international education with strong Arabic and Islamic studies. Affordable and well-structured.
Dome International Schools
Curriculum: British and American
Ages: KG–Grade 12
Established: 2016
Districts: Multiple in North Riyadh
Why we rate it: A practical, flexible option offering two major curricula. Strong reputation among local and expat parents alike.
We’ve also created a Google Map showing Riyadh’s international schools alongside popular expat compounds, which can help when planning where to live.
FAQ: Schools in Riyadh for Expat Families
When should I apply to schools in Riyadh?
Start early – ideally 6–12 months ahead. Term starts in late August or early September, and some year groups (especially FS1/Reception and Year 7) fill quickly.
Are international schools in Riyadh expensive?
Fees vary – from around SAR 30,000 to SAR 100,000+ annually. Some compounds and employers offer education packages, so check your benefits.
Do schools offer transport?
Many do. Some run dedicated school buses or work with third-party providers. Worth factoring into your commute. And if you are committing to Compound Life, check if your compound offers transport and whether it is free.
Preparing for a move to Saudi Arabia?
If you’re still researching schools, housing and neighbourhoods, you might find this helpful.
I’ve created a Saudi Arabia Relocation Checklist for expat families that walks through the key steps of preparing for the move.
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