Premium schools in the UAE are witnessing a significant surge in enrolments, with some institutions reporting a rise of nearly 20%. This trend comes despite tuition fees that can reach up to Dh120,000, underscoring the increasing demand for high-quality education in the region.
Key Drivers of Growth:
- Influx of New Families: The steady rise in enrolments is primarily attributed to the continued influx of new families moving to Dubai, a city known for its expatriate population and growing residential communities.
- Dubai’s Attractiveness: The city remains a key hub for families seeking international and premium education, with demand also spurred by the expansion of residential communities in areas such as Sobha Hartland.
GEMS Education’s Expansion:
- Enrolments Growth: Lisa Crausby, Group Chief Education Officer of GEMS Education, mentioned that the group has seen a 4% increase in enrolments year on year, with expectations of a further 6.5% growth by September 2025.
- Expansion Plans: GEMS has increased capacity across several schools, including GEMS World Academy – Dubai and GEMS Dubai American Academy. Plans for further expansions are underway at GEMS FirstPoint School – The Villa and GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi.
- Fee Structure: Fees at GEMS’ premium schools range from Dh35,000 to Dh120,000.
Taaleem’s Performance and Expansion:
- Revenue Growth: Taaleem, another leading K-12 education provider, reported operating revenues of Dh306.1 million for Q1 2024-25, reflecting a 14.8% year-on-year increase.
- Expansion: The group saw an 18.7% rise in enrolment and recently completed two major acquisitions, including LLFP Meydan and DBS Emirates Hills. This has increased Taaleem’s capacity by 28%, adding 6,000 new seats over the next two years.
Increased Demand and Capacity:
- GEMS FirstPoint School: David Wade, Principal of GEMS FirstPoint School – The Villa, reported a 34% increase in enrolment since 2022, with waiting lists in most year groups for the first time since the school’s opening in 2014.
- Hartland International School: Ajay Rajendran, Governor of Hartland International School, also noted significant demand, particularly in the secondary school sector. The school’s graduates have received offers from top-ranked universities such as Cambridge and Stanford, which highlights the academic strength of the institution.
The Premium Sector’s Growing Appeal:
School leaders emphasized that the demand for premium schools is being driven not only by expatriates relocating to the UAE but also by the region’s expanding residential developments. These institutions continue to offer strong academic programmes, ensuring their appeal to families seeking top-tier education in the UAE.
This trend signifies a thriving educational sector, with premium schools in the UAE investing in infrastructure, expanding their capacities, and offering exceptional value to families.