Best Female-Only International Schools in the Middle East — Complete Guide

Choosing the right school for your daughter is one of the most important decisions a family can make—especially when relocating to or living in the Middle East. The region is home to a thriving network of female-only international schools that combine world-class curricula with culturally respectful learning environments. Whether you are an expat family seeking a British, American, or IB curriculum, or a local family looking for a school that honours tradition while embracing academic excellence, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options.

In this pillar article we cover seven countries—the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and Jordan—comparing curricula, fee ranges, and standout institutions so you can make a confident, informed choice.

Why Choose a Female-Only International School?

Single-gender education has a long and well-researched history. Studies consistently show that girls in all-female settings often demonstrate:

• Higher academic confidence — without the social dynamics of co-education, many girls participate more actively in STEM and leadership activities.
• Stronger exam results — research from the UK’s Girls’ Schools Association indicates that girls at single-sex schools are more likely to choose subjects such as physics, mathematics, and computer science at A-Level.
• Greater leadership opportunities — every student-council president, team captain, and debate champion is female, creating powerful role models.
• Cultural alignment — in many Middle Eastern families, single-gender schooling reflects cultural and religious values, providing peace of mind for parents.

For families in the Middle East, female-only international schools offer the added advantage of combining a globally recognised curriculum with an environment that respects local customs and expectations.

Overview of Curricula Available

Before diving into country-by-country comparisons, it helps to understand the main curricula you will encounter:

Curriculum	Key Features	Typical Exam Pathway
British (UK National Curriculum)	Structured Key Stages, strong emphasis on core subjects	IGCSEs → A-Levels
American	Flexible, broad-based education with electives	SAT / AP exams
International Baccalaureate (IB)	Inquiry-based, holistic approach across PYP, MYP, and DP	IB Diploma
Indian (CBSE / ICSE)	Rigorous academic programme, strong in maths and science	CBSE / ICSE board exams
French	Centralised national curriculum taught in French	French Baccalauréat

Most female-only international schools in the Middle East follow either the British or American model, though IB programmes are growing rapidly. Some schools offer dual-track options, allowing families to switch between curricula at key transition points.

Country-by-Country Guide

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE—particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi—has the largest concentration of female-only international schools in the region. The emirate’s regulatory bodies (KHDA in Dubai, ADEK in Abu Dhabi) inspect and rate schools regularly, giving parents transparent quality benchmarks.

Top schools to consider:

• Jumeirah College for Girls — British curriculum, consistently rated “Outstanding” by KHDA. Known for exceptional STEM facilities and a 98 % A-Level pass rate.
• Al Mawakeb School for Girls (Garhoud) — American curriculum with Arabic immersion. Popular among both expat and Emirati families.
• Dubai International Academy for Girls — IB World School offering PYP through the Diploma Programme. Strong emphasis on community service and global citizenship.
• Abu Dhabi International Girls’ School — British curriculum in the capital, with modern boarding facilities and excellent pastoral care.

Fee range: AED 25,000–95,000 per year (approximately USD 6,800–25,900), depending on curriculum and grade level. Premium IB schools tend to sit at the higher end.

What sets the UAE apart: Unmatched school infrastructure, government-led inspection frameworks, and a highly diverse student body with over 90 nationalities represented in some institutions.

👉 Read our in-depth guide: Best Female-Only International Schools in the UAE

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Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s education sector has undergone a dramatic transformation under Vision 2030. The kingdom has invested billions in new school campuses, teacher training, and curriculum modernisation. Female-only education remains the norm for government schools, and the international-school sector has expanded rapidly to meet demand from both Saudi and expat families.

Top schools to consider:

• British International School of Jeddah (Girls’ Section) — One of the oldest international schools in the kingdom. British curriculum with strong university-preparation programmes.
• American International School Riyadh (Girls’ Campus) — American curriculum with AP courses. Excellent extra-curricular programme including robotics and Model UN.
• Dar Al Fikr Schools (Jeddah) — Bilingual (Arabic-English) programme blending the Saudi national curriculum with international best practices. Known for high Qiyas scores.
• Al Faris International School (Riyadh) — IB World School with a dedicated girls’ section. Growing reputation for arts and innovation.

Fee range: SAR 30,000–120,000 per year (approximately USD 8,000–32,000). Schools in Riyadh and Jeddah tend to command higher fees than those in smaller cities.

What sets Saudi Arabia apart: Rapid modernisation, significant government investment, and an expanding range of curricula now available to girls. The growing number of female Saudi teachers with international qualifications is also raising standards.

👉 Read our in-depth guide: Best Female-Only International Schools in Saudi Arabia

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Qatar

Qatar’s Education City and the broader school landscape in Doha offer some of the most prestigious female-friendly education options in the Gulf. While many top international schools in Qatar are co-educational, a number of excellent female-only institutions cater specifically to families who prefer single-gender learning.

Top schools to consider:

• Doha Girls’ International School — British curriculum, part of the Qatar Foundation network. Strong pastoral care and university counselling.
• Al Jazeera Academy for Girls — Bilingual school offering both the Qatari national curriculum and an international track. Well-regarded for Arabic language and Islamic studies.
• Qatar International School (Girls’ Section) — British and IB curricula with a dedicated girls’ campus. Known for high IGCSE pass rates.
• Birla Public School Doha (Girls’ Wing) — Indian CBSE curriculum serving the large South Asian community. Competitive fees and strong maths programme.

Fee range: QAR 20,000–75,000 per year (approximately USD 5,500–20,600). Indian-curriculum schools are typically the most affordable; British and IB schools sit at the premium end.

What sets Qatar apart: Heavy government investment in education infrastructure, small class sizes, and a cosmopolitan student community that reflects Doha’s international workforce.

👉 Read our in-depth guide: Best Female-Only International Schools in Qatar

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Bahrain

Bahrain has a well-established private-school sector and a relatively relaxed regulatory environment that has allowed a variety of international schools to flourish. Female-only options are available primarily through British and Indian-curriculum institutions.

Top schools to consider:

• The British School of Bahrain (Girls’ Section) — One of the kingdom’s most established British-curriculum schools. Strong academics and a wide range of extra-curricular clubs.
• Al Raja School for Girls — Indian CBSE curriculum with a focus on academic rigour and affordable fees. Popular among the Indian and Pakistani communities.
• Naseem International School (Girls’ Campus) — American curriculum with Arabic language support. Known for a nurturing environment and small class sizes.
• Ibn Khuldoon National School (Girls’ Division) — Bilingual programme recognised by both the Bahrain Ministry of Education and international accreditation bodies.

Fee range: BHD 1,500–6,500 per year (approximately USD 4,000–17,200). Bahrain is generally more affordable than the UAE or Qatar, making it attractive for cost-conscious families.

What sets Bahrain apart: Lower cost of living compared to neighbours, a welcoming expat community, and strong bilingual (Arabic-English) programme options that are harder to find elsewhere.

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Oman

Oman’s education system blends tradition with modernity. Muscat, the capital, is home to most of the country’s international schools, including several female-only or female-section options. The Ministry of Education oversees standards, and schools are generally well-run and community-oriented.

Top schools to consider:

• The British School Muscat (Girls’ Section) — British curriculum with a strong track record of A-Level results. Active arts and sports programme.
• Indian School Al Ghubra (Girls’ Wing) — One of the largest Indian-curriculum schools in the Gulf. CBSE board with consistently high pass rates and affordable tuition.
• ABA – An IB World School (Girls’ Programme) — Offers the full IB continuum. Small cohorts allow for personalised attention.
• Al Sahwa Schools (Girls’ Campus) — Bilingual school combining the Omani national curriculum with an American-style international programme.

Fee range: OMR 1,200–6,000 per year (approximately USD 3,100–15,600). Oman offers some of the most competitive fees in the Gulf for international education.

What sets Oman apart: A safe, family-friendly environment; lower cost of living; and a close-knit school community where teachers know every student by name.

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Kuwait

Kuwait has a mature international-school sector, with many institutions dating back several decades. Female-only sections are common, particularly among British, American, and Indian-curriculum schools. The Ministry of Private Education regulates the sector.

Top schools to consider:

• The English School Kuwait (Girls’ Section) — One of the oldest and most respected British-curriculum schools in the country. Excellent IGCSE and A-Level results.
• American Creativity Academy (Girls’ Campus) — American curriculum with a strong emphasis on technology and innovation. Modern campus facilities.
• Indian Community School Kuwait (Girls’ Branch) — CBSE and ICSE tracks. One of the largest Indian schools in the Middle East, with a dedicated girls’ branch.
• Kuwait National English School (Girls’ Division) — Bilingual school with a British-curriculum foundation and Arabic enrichment.

Fee range: KWD 800–4,500 per year (approximately USD 2,600–14,600). Indian-curriculum schools start at the lower end; American and British schools command higher fees.

What sets Kuwait apart: Established school traditions, experienced teaching staff, and a strong alumni network that supports university placements across the UK, US, and Australia.

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Jordan

Jordan is increasingly popular with expat families drawn by its rich history, moderate climate, and high-quality education sector. Amman, the capital, hosts a growing number of international schools, some of which offer female-only sections. Jordan is also a regional hub for IB programmes.

Top schools to consider:

• Amman Baccalaureate School (Girls’ Section) — One of the first IB World Schools in the region. Renowned for its inquiry-based teaching approach and diverse student body.
• International Academy – Amman (Girls’ Division) — American curriculum with AP courses and SAT preparation. Strong community-service programme.
• Rosary Sisters School — A historic institution offering a bilingual programme. Known for its values-based education and alumni network.
• Modern American School (Girls’ Section) — American curriculum with a focus on 21st-century skills, including coding and digital literacy.

Fee range: JOD 2,000–8,000 per year (approximately USD 2,800–11,300). Jordan is one of the most affordable countries in the region for international education, offering excellent value for money.

What sets Jordan apart: Strong bilingual programmes, a well-educated local teaching workforce, and one of the highest concentrations of IB World Schools per capita in the Middle East.

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Comparing Countries at a Glance

Country	Main Curricula	Annual Fee Range (USD)	Key Strength
UAE	British, American, IB	$6,800–$25,900	Largest choice, transparent inspections
Saudi Arabia	British, American, IB	$8,000–$32,000	Rapid modernisation, Vision 2030 investment
Qatar	British, IB, Indian	$5,500–$20,600	World-class infrastructure, Education City
Bahrain	British, American, Indian	$4,000–$17,200	Affordable, strong bilingual programmes
Oman	British, IB, Indian	$3,100–$15,600	Safe, family-friendly, competitive fees
Kuwait	British, American, Indian	$2,600–$14,600	Established traditions, strong alumni networks
Jordan	IB, American, Bilingual	$2,800–$11,300	Best value, high IB concentration

Key Factors When Choosing a School

Selecting the right female-only international school goes beyond rankings and fees. Here are the factors that experienced expat families say matter most:

1. Curriculum Alignment with Future Plans

If your daughter is likely to attend university in the UK, a British curriculum with A-Levels is the most direct pathway. For US universities, an American curriculum with AP courses or the IB Diploma is ideal. Think backwards from university destinations when choosing a curriculum.

2. Language of Instruction and Support

Most international schools teach primarily in English, but the quality of Arabic-language instruction varies widely. If bilingual fluency is important to your family, look for schools with dedicated Arabic departments and native-speaking teachers.

3. Inspection and Accreditation

In the UAE, look for KHDA or ADEK ratings. Elsewhere, check for accreditation from bodies such as CIS (Council of International Schools), NEASC, or BSO (British Schools Overseas). Accredited schools are held to internationally recognised standards.

4. Pastoral Care and Well-being

Female-only schools often excel in pastoral care, but standards vary. Ask about counselling services, anti-bullying policies, and how the school supports students through transitions—whether moving between countries or preparing for exams.

5. Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Sport, arts, debate, robotics, Model UN, and community-service programmes all contribute to a well-rounded education. The best schools offer a rich extra-curricular menu that builds confidence and develops skills beyond the classroom.

6. University Placement Track Record

Ask for data on where recent graduates have been accepted. Strong schools will openly share this information and have dedicated university counsellors on staff.

7. Community and Culture

Visit the school, attend an open day, and speak to current parents. The “feel” of a school—how students interact, how staff greet visitors—tells you more than any prospectus.

The Role of Online Tutoring in Supporting Your Daughter’s Education

Even at the best schools, some students benefit from additional academic support. Whether your daughter needs help preparing for IGCSEs, A-Levels, IB exams, or standardised tests like the SAT, personalised online tutoring can make a significant difference.

At Tutopiya, we connect students across the Middle East with expert tutors who understand international curricula inside out. Our one-to-one online sessions are flexible, affordable, and tailored to each student’s needs—perfect for expat families juggling busy schedules and time-zone challenges.

How Tutopiya helps students at female-only international schools:

• Subject-specific support — Maths, sciences, English, economics, and more, aligned to your daughter’s exact syllabus.
• Exam preparation — Targeted revision for IGCSEs, A-Levels, IB, AP, and SAT exams.
• Flexible scheduling — Sessions that fit around school timetables and extra-curricular commitments.
• Progress tracking — Parents receive regular updates on their daughter’s progress and areas for improvement.

Explore our full range of subjects and book a session through the Tutopiya Learning Portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are female-only international schools only for Muslim families?

Not at all. Families from all backgrounds choose single-gender education for academic, cultural, or personal reasons. Most female-only international schools in the Middle East welcome students of all nationalities and faiths.

At what age do girls typically start at female-only schools?

This varies by country and school. Some institutions offer single-gender education from Foundation Stage (age 3–4), while others only separate genders from secondary level (age 11+). In Saudi Arabia, gender separation is standard from primary school onwards.

Can my daughter transfer between a co-ed and a single-gender school?

Yes. Transfers are common, especially among expat families who move between countries. Schools are experienced in managing transitions and will usually request academic records, a reference from the previous school, and sometimes an entrance assessment.

Do female-only schools offer the same range of subjects as co-ed schools?

Absolutely. Top female-only schools offer the full range of subjects, including STEM, business, arts, and humanities. In fact, research suggests that girls at single-sex schools are more likely to choose traditionally male-dominated subjects like physics and computer science.

How do I know if a school is genuinely “outstanding”?

Look for independent inspection reports (e.g., KHDA, ADEK, BSO, CIS), university placement data, and parent reviews. Visiting the school in person and speaking with current families is the most reliable way to gauge quality.

Final Thoughts

The Middle East offers a remarkable range of female-only international schools, from the bustling mega-campuses of Dubai and Riyadh to the intimate, community-oriented schools of Muscat and Amman. Whatever your budget, curriculum preference, or cultural priorities, there is a school that will help your daughter thrive academically and personally.

Take the time to research, visit, and compare. Use our country-specific guides for detailed school profiles:

• Best Female-Only International Schools in the UAE
• Best Female-Only International Schools in Saudi Arabia
• Best Female-Only International Schools in Qatar

And remember—wherever your daughter studies, personalised tutoring support can give her the edge she needs to excel. Book a free trial session with Tutopiya today and see how our expert tutors can support her journey.