New institutions across Dubai are offering more options than ever for learners of all ages
As the new academic year begins, Dubai’s private education sector is set to welcome 25 new institutions, a clear sign of the city’s continued growth as a global education hub.
The 2025–2026 academic year will see:
16 new early childhood centres (ECCs)
Six new private schools
Three prestigious international universities
Together, they’ll add over 14,000 new seats, including 11,700 for school and university students, and 2,400 for early learners.
For families across Dubai, that means more choice, more flexibility, and greater access to high-quality education.
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Early Childhood Centres
Dubai’s growing demand for early education is being met with 16 new ECCs, offering a variety of approaches.
11 centres following the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Three using the Creative Curriculum
One Montessori
One Maple Bear
Each centre aims to support early development in a globally-minded environment.
Schools
Six new schools are opening their doors this year, five offering a UK curriculum and one French institution, providing international-standard education across key Dubai communities:
GEMS School of Research and Innovation – Sports City
Victory Heights Primary School – City of Arabia
Dubai British School – Mira
Dubai English Speaking School – Academic City
Al Fanar School – Nad Al Sheba
Lycée Français International School – Mudon
Universities
Higher education in Dubai is also expanding, with three globally-recognised institutions launching their campuses:
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) – Ranked #27 globally in business and management (QS Rankings)
American University of Beirut (AUB) – Ranked #237 globally
Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences – Based in Saudi Arabia, bringing medical expertise to Dubai
These additions are part of a broader movement to support Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy (E33), which aims to ensure high-quality learning at every stage of life.
With this expansion, Dubai is now home to:
331 early childhood centres
233 private schools
44 higher education institutions
Dubai’s education system is more ready than ever to meet the needs of learners at every level.
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