Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Awal school takes its name from Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Awal (The First), uncle to the UAE’s founder, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khalifa was known for his pursuit of knowledge and wisdom throughout his life.
Sheikh Khalifa’s Majlis was frequented by all the distinguished scholars of that time, including some of Abu Dhabi’s judges, leaders and teachers. His Majlis was open and accessible for everyone in the community to share knowledge and foster understanding.
Sheikh Khalifa took care of his nephew Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan during his childhood, especially after his father passed away in 1926. He instilled in him the love for knowledge and land at a very young age. Every morning, the young Sheikh Zayed would accompany his uncle to inspect the restoration of the Falaj(underground water channels for irrigation). At that time, Sheikh Khalifa was determined to revive Al Muwaiji Oasis in Al Ain and ordered the restoration of its Falaj to ensure a continuous fresh water supply.He is also known to have ordered the planting of date palm trees brought from Liwa in Al Dhafra region in Al Ain. Today, Al Dabbas Palm trees and others continue to thrive in Al Ain.Our school model is inspired by the great legacy that Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed the First left behind. His life-long pursuit of knowledge and his love for the community and place are some of the core values we cherish and uphold in our pedagogy. His devotion to the environment informs the principles on which we base our education, as we believe that it is through our land, that we learn how to preserve our heritage and prepare for the future.

The story of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Awal illustrates the values and beliefs that we aspire to develop in the next generation.”