From search to enrolment in just a click—Edways is transforming how UAE parents choose schools. Co-founder Marion Henriot explains how
We’ve all felt it. That creeping sense of overwhelm as you juggle school websites, buried in browser tabs, trying to remember if you liked the IB school with the therapy dog or the British one with the Olympic-sized pool—all while coordinating a string of open days like a military operation.
For parents navigating Dubai’s ever-growing private school landscape, the admissions process can feel more complex than it needs to be.
Enter Edways—a smart, intuitive, and completely free online platform designed to make school selection and applications easier, quicker, and more personalised.
We spoke to Marion Henriot, Co-Founder of Edways, to learn how this platform is transforming the way families approach one of the most important decisions in their child’s life.
“What’s the best school for my child?”
“It’s a question we’re asked repeatedly,” says Marion.
“But there’s no universal answer—it’s deeply personal. The right school depends on your child’s personality, values, interests, learning needs, and your family’s lifestyle.”
Even in a globally admired education hub like the UAE, Marion noticed a gap.
“There was no trusted, user-friendly source offering end-to-end, personalised guidance. We have seamless platforms in every other part of life—from booking hotels to buying insurance.
We wanted to bring that same clarity and convenience to school admissions.”
Marion launched Edways in early 2023 with her co-founder, Ismail Zorob.
The duo brings over 25 years of experience in school management and is on a mission to reimagine education systems by utilising best practices from other industries.
Since its launch, Edways has helped hundreds of families in Dubai—and soon, Abu Dhabi, and beyond.
How it works: Easy, free, and personal
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Unlike traditional school directories, Edways is a concierge-style platform.
“We start with a conversation,” says Marion. “We want to understand your child and your family’s goals.
From there, we shortlist schools, book tours, help with applications, and even follow up with schools on your behalf.”
The magic, she explains, is in its simplicity.
“Parents often have that ‘aha’ moment when they realise they don’t need to juggle dozens of websites and email threads. Edways handles it all—and it’s completely free.”
That’s possible because of Edways’ partnership model.
“We’re funded through success-based fees from schools. That means our focus is always on making the right match for families and schools.”
You might like: The Yalla 100 StandOut UAE Schools Guide
One-click applications with ‘Easy Apply’
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For parents with multiple children or little time, the Easy Apply feature is a game-changer.
“You can apply to multiple schools in a single click,” says Marion.
“We verify the application, share it with schools, and track it for you. No more repeating forms or chasing updates.”
Families can also connect with admissions staff, academic leaders, or even parent ambassadors through real-time chat or video calls, replacing the need to rely on forums or hearsay.
“It’s not just tech—it’s trust,” says Marion.
Smart choice, not just more choice
While families can apply to up to five schools per child, Edways guides them to be selective.
“Five is the sweet spot,” says Marion. “It gives families meaningful options, without causing confusion or stress.
We help parents narrow it down by asking the right questions—academic priorities, commute distance, fee range, language offerings, etc.”
The result? Most families apply to just two or three carefully chosen schools.
Marion’s top tips for parents
- Start early. Popular schools fill up quickly—especially for key intake years.
- Don’t rely solely on inspection ratings. Visit, talk to staff, and trust your instincts.
- Think long-term. Consider how the school supports children across all stages.
- Ask questions beyond academics. Wellbeing, creativity, homework policies, school timings—they all matter.
- Avoid applying blindly. Work with someone who understands the landscape
What’s next for Edways?
The team is expanding to Abu Dhabi and other emirates, with plans to extend services to nurseries, tutoring, and extracurricular activities.
They’ve already introduced an AI-powered school search, where parents can describe their ideal school in natural language and receive tailored results.
“Our goal,” Marion says, “is to become a one-stop shop for every family’s education journey—seamless, smart, and always personal.”
For further information, please visit Edways
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