KHDA: Dubai schools to add 18,000 affordable seats as student numbers climb to 406,563

Dubai is set to add approximately 18,000 extra affordable seats to its private education sector over the next two academic years as student numbers rise to 406,563, according to the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The expansion aims to provide families with more affordable education options as private education continues to grow in the region.

Over the past two academic years, private education in Dubai has seen an impressive 4.6% increase in enrollment, with 406,563 students enrolled in private schools at the beginning of the new academic year compared to around 388,731 in June 2026. The KHDA has outlined various priorities for the 2026-27 academic year, including expanding access to affordable education, raising the performance of schools with high concentrations of Emirati students, and enhancing student wellbeing and protection.

The growth of Dubai's private education sector is fueled by the emirate's appeal as a place for families to live, raise their children, and access high-quality education. With 51 new private educational institutions opening over the past two academic years, the sector added nearly 18,000 new seats. Additionally, two internationally recognized universities are set to launch their programs in Dubai this academic year, further solidifying Dubai's position as a global hub for higher education and research.