Dubai’s private education landscape is set for another significant boost, with 25 new institutions scheduled to open for the 2025–26 academic year. The expansion includes 16 early childhood centres, six private schools, and three international universities, collectively adding more than 14,000 seats across the emirate.
This move reflects the city’s long-term commitment to positioning itself as a global hub for quality education, while offering families a wider choice of curriculums and learning pathways.
A Growing Network of Early Childhood Centres
Parents with young children will have more options than ever, with 16 early childhood centres opening doors across different communities in Dubai. These centres will feature a variety of globally recognised learning models, including the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the Creative Curriculum, Montessori, and Maple Bear, ensuring that families can choose approaches aligned with their child’s development needs.
This expansion also strengthens early learning opportunities closer to residential areas, easing access for working parents and reinforcing the city’s family-friendly environment.
Six New Schools Expanding Curriculum Choice

For school-aged children, six new private schools will welcome students in 2025–26. Five of these institutions will follow the UK curriculum, while one will offer a French curriculum, broadening Dubai’s already diverse schooling network.
The addition of new campuses also helps balance demand, as many existing schools operate at near-full capacity. With new seats coming online, families can expect smoother admissions processes and better geographical coverage across neighbourhoods.
Prestigious Universities Strengthening Dubai’s Higher Education
The upcoming academic year will also mark the arrival of three internationally renowned universities in Dubai. These include the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), consistently ranked among the world’s top business schools, the American University of Beirut (AUB), a leading Arab institution with a strong global reputation, and the Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences from Saudi Arabia, which will add specialised programmes in medical and health sciences.
Their entry signals growing confidence in Dubai’s education ecosystem and expands opportunities for students seeking globally respected degrees without leaving the UAE. The new institutions are expected to attract both local and international learners, further diversifying the student community in the emirate.
A Sector Built on Choice and Quality
With 25 new institutions set to open, the 2025–26 academic year will provide families with unprecedented choice. Parents will have the flexibility to select from multiple curriculums, while students gain access to world-class higher education options closer to home.
This growth also reflects the emirate’s long-term strategy to ensure equitable access to high-quality education at all levels, supporting families, professionals, and the wider economy. As Dubai continues to attract residents from across the globe, the expansion of its education sector ensures that demand is met with world-class standards.
The expansion of Dubai’s private education sector is more than just an increase in numbers. It underscores the emirate’s vision to remain a leader in education and innovation, offering learning pathways that cater to the diverse community it serves.
For families considering admissions for 2025–26, now is the time to explore new options as schools and universities open enrolment. With additional seats becoming available, the next academic year promises smoother access and more variety than ever before.
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