Dubai’s higher education sector sees 20% enrolment growth

Dubai is rapidly solidifying its position as a premier global hub for higher education, underpinned by strong growth in student enrolment and a significant increase in the inflow of international students.

These insights were highlighted during an exclusive, high-level briefing, hosted by L.E.K. Consulting’s Global Education Practice in Dubai, which convened senior stakeholders, policymakers, and higher education leaders to discuss Dubai’s accelerating transformation into a world-class higher education destination. The event featured key perspectives from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). 

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According to L.E.K. Consulting’s research and analysis, Dubai presents ‘one of the most compelling growth markets globally for higher education,’ driven by key factors, including a growing high school student base, increasing demand for transnational education, the presence of globally recognised university brands, student-friendly infrastructure, and strong post-study employment pathways.

Latest figures from the KHDA highlight this strong growth momentum across the sector. More than 42,000 students are now enrolled across 41 private higher education institutions in the emirate that are licensed and regulated by the KHDA — with a 20 per cent increase in overall student enrolment in the 2024-25 academic year.

International student enrolment has surged by 29 per cent compared to the previous year, now representing 35 per cent of total enrollments in Dubai’s higher education institutions, which are licensed by the KHDA.

Meanwhile, Emirati participation in international universities has also grown by 22 per cent, underscoring Dubai’s dual appeal to both domestic and global learners. Four new international institutions opened in the current academic year alone.

The strong growth supports KHDA’s Education 33 strategy, and specifically its City of Students initiative, which aims to raise international student enrolment to 50 per cent by 2033, transforming Dubai into a world-leading destination for quality higher education.

“Dubai’s continued growth as a global hub for higher education is testament to our leadership’s vision and the ambitious goals of the Dubai Plan 33 and its social and economic agendas and driven by our Education 33 strategy,” said Dr Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority.

“We are creating new opportunities for transnational education, strengthening Dubai’s position as a city where learners, educators, and institutions from around the world can connect, collaborate, and thrive. Through E33, we are building a future where Dubai is not only a destination for quality education, but a centre of knowledge, innovation, and opportunity.”

As the demand for transnational education, upskilling, and reskilling intensifies, Dubai’s blend of strategic policy, global connectivity, and education quality continues to position it as a top-tier alternative to traditional study destinations.

“With a growing pool of graduates from our wonderful array of international schools in the city, Dubai presents a significant opportunity for international universities to meet the evolving needs of both local and international students,” said Ashwin Assomull, partner and head of the Global Education Practice at L.E.K. Consulting.

“Amid increasing regulatory restrictions in traditional anglophone markets, Dubai’s world-class higher education infrastructure, global connectivity, favourable cost structure, and reputation for safety present unparalleled opportunities for students, operators, and investors to capitalise on this transformative growth.”

The latest KHDA data reveals that over 42,000 students are now enrolled across 41 private higher education institutions regulated by the authority. International students now make up 35 per cent of this population, and Emirati enrolments at international universities have also increased by 22 per cent. Four new international institutions opened during the current academic year, further strengthening the city’s academic offering.

The surge in enrollment has been attributed to several key factors: Dubai’s expanding high school graduate population, increasing demand for transnational education, and the presence of top-ranked international universities offering academic excellence and strong post-study employment pathways. The city’s reputation for safety, connectivity, and student-friendly infrastructure is also drawing students from the GCC, Asia, and Europe.

Ashwin Assomull explained that Dubai’s educational momentum is underpinned by a workforce-oriented model that sets it apart from other regional education hubs like Singapore or Qatar. “Dubai’s institutions not only deliver strong academics but also focus on employability, providing students with job-ready skills and professional networks. This gives Dubai a clear competitive edge”, he said.

He also emphasised that the current growth trajectory is prompting more global universities to enter the Dubai market. “Institutions are responding to constraints in their home countries—such as demographic shifts and regulatory changes—by expanding into Dubai, which offers a supportive environment, strong demand, and a proven track record of success. The city presents unparalleled opportunities for students, operators, and investors.”

L.E.K. Consulting plays a strategic role in this transformation, advising universities and investors on how to align with Dubai’s fast-evolving education ecosystem and the goals of the Education 33 initiative. This includes supporting institutions in designing scalable models, entering the market, and aligning expansion with broader social and economic outcomes.

Looking ahead, Dubai aims to achieve 50 per cent international enrolment by 2033. Achieving this target will require sustained investment in academic quality, physical and digital infrastructure, student accommodation, and faculty development.

“If this momentum is maintained, Dubai won’t just meet its targets — it will serve as a global benchmark for the future of international higher education,” Assomull said.

As the demand for transnational education, upskilling, and reskilling continues to rise globally, Dubai is well-positioned to be at the forefront of the next chapter in global education.