Three internationally renowned universities will open campuses in Dubai for the 2025–26 academic year, marking a major step in the emirate’s push to become a global education hub, according to Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
Joining Dubai’s growing higher education ecosystem are the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, the American University of Beirut, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences from Saudi Arabia. These institutions bring globally ranked programmes in business, management, and medical sciences to a city that already hosts 41 international education providers.
The initiative is part of the Education 33 Strategy, aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the city's economy and significantly boost educational tourism by 2033. Authorities also plan for international students to make up 50% of the student population and contribute AED5.6 billion to GDP.
“There is a clear vision to make Dubai a leading destination for prestigious universities and future-ready graduates,”
said Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of KHDA’s Strategic Development Sector.
“This supports both economic growth and global competitiveness.”
Enrolment numbers reflect this momentum. The 2024–25 academic year saw a record 20% rise in student numbers, including a 29% increase in international enrolments, bringing the total to over 42,000 students.
Dubai’s higher education sector currently offers more than 700 academic programmes, with many institutions earning high QS World University Rankings, reinforcing the city’s appeal to global students and faculty alike.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
