UAE Premium Schools See 20% Enrolment Surge Amid Rising Demand for Top-Tier Education
UAE premium schools are seeing nearly a 20 percent increase in enrolments, due to an influx of new families coming to Dubai. Fees of as much as Dh120,000 have not derailed this surge.
The premium education sector in the UAE has seen remarkable growth, with several schools reporting up to a 20% increase in enrolments despite tuition fees ranging from Dh35,000 to Dh120,000. This upward trend is fueled by the steady influx of families relocating to Dubai and the expansion of residential communities. School leaders are optimistic about sustaining this momentum through strategic expansions and enhanced offerings.
Drivers of Growth
Dubai has established itself as a global hub, attracting expatriates from diverse backgrounds. This growth in population has directly impacted the demand for high-quality education. Lisa Crausby, Group Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education, remarked, “We have seen enrolments in our premium schools increase four per cent year on year, and we’re expecting them to increase a further 6.5 per cent by September 2025.”
It is hosting 13 international premium schools operating in Dubai and Abu Dhabi while continuously investing new ones and expansions as the demand prevails. Current developments include;
A senior school campus at GEMS World Academy – Dubai
A new block of middle school at GEMS Dubai American Academy.
A sixth wing at Jumeirah College, Dubai.
Performance Metrics
Taaleem, another major education group, has also seen substantial growth. The company had reported operating revenues of Dh306.1 million for Q1 2024-25, with 14.8% year-over-year growth. Premium school enrollments increased by 18.7%, with the acquisition of LLFP Meydan and DBS Emirates Hills being strategic inclusions.
Khalid Al Tayer, chairman of Taaleem, highlighted the firm's successes, "We have successfully completed two major acquisitions, broadening our exposure in both established and new curricula."
Premium Offerings and Value Proposition
Despite the high prices, premium schools in the UAE offer good value for money, with top-notch facilities, innovative teaching methodologies, and access to global opportunities. For example, Hartland International School's governor, Ajay Rajendran, said, "We have had offers from the top-ranked universities such as Cambridge, Stanford, and UCL, which reflects the strength of our academic programme.
David Wade, GEMS FirstPoint School-The Villa's Chief Executive Officer noted, "For the first full year since our opening in 2022 enrolment has gained 34 percent. Our great value proposition stands out in a premium sector priced from Dh 36, 593 in nursery to Years 12-13 at Dh 74,017."
Residential Growth Impact
The increase in enrollments is not only due to expatriate families but also by the growth of residential communities like Sobha Hartland. The communities offer the convenience of accessing world-class education with proximity to home for families.
Future Projections
To meet the rising demand, education providers are heavily investing in infrastructure and planning expansions. Alan Williamson, CEO of Taaleem, said, "Over the next two years, our plan is to add over 6,000 seats while maximising utilization across our premium and super-premium schools."
FAQs
Why are UAE premium school enrolments increasing despite the high fees?
An increase in expatriate families who are relocating to Dubai is also one reason for this surge, in addition to the establishment of new residential communities with proximity to quality education.
What is so appealing about premium schools in the UAE?
Premium schools offer top-class facilities, progressive pedagogies, and a lead to international prestigious universities, which attracts families who wish to seek high-quality education for their children.
Which are the schools spearheading this surge in enrolment?
Prominent providers such as GEMS Education and Taaleem are at the forefront, having invested heavily in infrastructure and expansions to meet growing demand.
What is the typical fees for UAE premium schools?
The fees vary between Dh35,000 and Dh120,000 per year depending on the school, curriculum, and grade level.
How are schools planning to accommodate the surge in enrolments?
The schools are expanding their campuses, opening new facilities, and increasing capacity to accommodate the growing demand for premium education.
