North American International School is located in Al Mizhar and currently has some 475 students on its roster, down considerably from 600 two years ago. Almost a third (32 percent) of the students are Emirati and the majority of teachers hold an Indian passport.

The school aims to “develop lifelong learners and future leaders by continually reviewing and building an enriched American curriculum, promoting student achievement, encouraging integrity and nurturing a desire to learn.” The school has been in operation since 2007 and has received an Acceptable rating for the last nine inspections.

Heading up the school is principal Sonia Mahajan, who’s been in the position since 2009, adding continuity to the school’s leadership.