Expert Info

Posted by
on 23 Aug 2012

Hi, We are from New Zealand and My Husband is in Riyadh Saudi Arabia now and we are following 3 months latter, we have 3 school age children and have been allocated to the British School for schooling depending on space. My husband has found out that both British schools & American International Schools are full and no space on waiting list at moment. I am wanting to know the next best schools to try to apply to for my children am finding it really hard to find info or web page for other schools so i can download applications. PLEASE PLEASE HELP am starting to panic that kids wont have school to go to.

Anonymous (not verified) on 24 Aug 2012 - 07:26
Hi micjas, finding a place for your children in a school in Saudi Arabia can be quite a challenge and I can understand your frustration. Don't panic! The transient nature of life in the Kingdom means that expat families are always on the go and place may open up sooner than you think. Besides the American and British international schools in Riyadh, another good option to consider is the King Abdul Aziz International School in Riyadh, which follows a contininental (independent) curriculum, so it's neither British nor American. For more info on the school, take a look at our International Schools in Riyadh page for contact details of the school and others in the city. To read more about the education system in Saudi Arabia have a look at our Education and Schools in Saudi Arabia page.

I suggest talking to fellow parents who may be living in your compound, and also contact your embassy, which should be able to provide you with a list of recommended schools. Your husband's company may also have other connections and advice with regards to schools in Riyadh and offer support in this endeavour. Be persistent with the schools about getting your children on the waiting lists and enlist the help of you husband's company if you have to.

Good luck with your search! I hope you manage to find a place for your children!
Anonymous (not verified) on 3 Oct 2012 - 14:47
Dear fellow expats, I have recently arrived Riyadh from London to take up long-term employment. I intend to bring my family over shortly and would be grateful for your advice regarding housing options and schools. I have five children requiring primary and secondary education. Your advice is highly appreciated. Regards, A Abdi
Anonymous (not verified) on 4 Oct 2012 - 07:35
Hi A Abdi

Re schools, take a look at the pages Catherine recommended i.e. the Expat Arrivals International Schools in Riyadh page for contact details of schools in the city, as well as the Education and Schools in Saudi Arabia page for more general information about what to expect from /look for in schools in Riyadh.

You'll find a good overview of accommodation in Saudi Arabia on the site as well as a list of compounds in Riyadh with contact details one the Accommodation in Riyadh page.

Any further questions please feel free to ask.

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