King’s College Riyadh, the first British private school to open in the Kingdom, has achieved a major international milestone after being recognised among the Top Performing Global Schools in the Arabic Benchmark Test in the ABT International Benchmark Tests. Administered by ABT Assessments, these tests provide detailed insights into student attainment and progress in Arabic language learning worldwide.
Selected from more than twelve hundred schools across fourteen countries, King’s College Riyadh earned this prestigious recognition for its exceptional performance in Arabic language education. This reflects the school’s strong commitment to delivering excellence in bilingual learning, combining British academic rigour with deep respect for Saudi culture, heritage and the Arabic language.
Celebrating Excellence at the Annual Awards Ceremony
The Annual Excellence Awards Ceremony took place on 15 November 2025 at the Mövenpick Hotel in Dubai, where Hissa Al Qahtani accepted the award on behalf of the school.
Ms Jacqueline Doran, Principal of King’s College Riyadh said,
“We are deeply honoured to receive this international recognition. At King’s, we take pride in offering an education that is both globally minded and locally grounded. This award is a testament to the passion and expertise of our Arabic department, and to our students’ commitment to learning the language and culture of the Kingdom.”
A Model for Bilingual and Bicultural Learning
This milestone reinforces King’s College Riyadh’s dedication to fostering courage, curiosity and creativity in every child. Through a curriculum that integrates Arabic, Islamic Studies and Social Studies alongside the British National Curriculum, the school encourages cultural pride while preparing students to succeed confidently on the global stage.
A British School with Deep Saudi Roots
Founded in partnership with King’s College UK, a leading British independent school with more than one hundred and forty years of history, King’s College Riyadh provides an inspiring environment where children from Pre School to Year 7, ages three to thirteen, are encouraged to think critically, act compassionately and live courageously.
The school will continue its planned expansion to Year 13, offering a full British education thoughtfully delivered within the Saudi context.
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