With the new school year kicking off in the UAE, Dubai is gearing up to cement its place as a global education hub through a bold 2025–26 expansion plan.
The Emirate is set to open 25 new educational institutions, a move that highlights the strong investor confidence in the sector and its commitment to providing high-quality learning options.
In the upcoming 2025–26 academic year, #Dubai will welcome:
6 new private schools (5 #UK curriculum, 1 #French)
16 early childhood centres (#ECCs) with diverse models including EYFS, Montessori, Creative Curriculum, and Maple Bear
3 international universities – Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, American University of Beirut and #Saudi Arabia’s Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences.
This expansion will add:
11,700+ new school seats
2,400+ ECC learner spots
Dubai now hosts:
331 ECCs
233 private schools
44 higher education institutions
For #international education providers, #edtech innovators, or service partners eyeing expansion in the Middle East, Dubai’s education boom highlights several promising entry points. The Emirate’s diverse population, demand for globally recognized curricula, and appetite for innovation make it a prime launchpad for:
– Early Childhood Innovation: With 16 new ECCs spanning diverse curricula, there’s strong demand for digital learning platforms, bilingual content providers, and early-years pedagogical innovations.
– Curriculum-Based School Technology: The push for varied curricula (UK, French, Montessori, Creative, Maple Bear) opens doors for tailored learning management systems, assessment tools, and blended learning solutions.
– Higher Education Partnerships: The arrival of Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad), American University of Beirut, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences underscores the need for collaborative #research, edtech collaborations, and student services platforms for international institutions.
– EdTech & Infrastructure: #Schools and ECCs will need robust #digital infrastructure for administration, teaching, AI-driven personalization, and student well-being programmes.
– Regulatory Navigation & Licensing Support: Engage with the Knowledge & Human Development Authority (KHDA) through strategic alignments under E33—there’s room for consultancies and partners who can help new entrants in #compliance, quality assurance, and #accreditation.
If this market is on your horizon, Dubai is not just open—it’s actively welcoming #innovation. Let’s explore how your solutions can play a key role in shaping the future of education in one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly growing markets.