Dubai’s private education sector continues to flourish, with a 6% increase in student enrolment during the 2024-25 academic year, reaching a total of 387,441 students across 227 private schools.
According to Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), this growth highlights the city’s appeal as a global education hub.
The KHDA’s latest report revealed the addition of ten new private schools during the academic year, contributing to Dubai’s Education Strategy E33, which aims to establish at least 100 new private schools by 2033. This initiative aligns with the emirate’s vision of offering high-quality education to its rapidly growing and diverse population.
Aisha Miran, Director-General of KHDA, stated,
“Dubai continues to be an attractive destination for families seeking world-class education and for educators dedicated to shaping future generations. The growth in student enrolment, including Emirati students, alongside the expansion of new schools, reflects the strength of the city’s education ecosystem.”
The E33 Strategy emphasizes creating a diverse and inclusive education environment, ensuring all students—regardless of background—have access to top-tier education. It also supports Dubai’s ambitious goals under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Social Agenda 33, focusing on innovation, student wellbeing, and lifelong learning.
Dubai’s private schools currently offer 17 curricula, with the UK curriculum being the most popular, chosen by 37% of students. The Indian curriculum follows with 26%, while the US curriculum (14%), International Baccalaureate (7%), and a UK/IB hybrid curriculum (4%) round out the top five.
Among the 33,210 Emirati students enrolled in private schools, the US curriculum leads in popularity, followed by the UK and IB curricula. Empowering Emirati students with world-class education and fostering a culture of lifelong learning remain key goals of the E33 Strategy.
Additionally, the number of teachers employed in Dubai’s private schools rose by 9% to 27,284, reflecting the city’s success in attracting top global teaching talent. This growth underscores Dubai’s position as a hub for professional development and career advancement in the education sector.
For more information about Dubai’s private school landscape for the 2024-25 academic year, visit the KHDA website.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
