United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private data was reported at 567.000 Unit in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 563.000 Unit for 2016. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private data is updated yearly, averaging 461.500 Unit from Jun 1996 (Median) to 2017, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 567.000 Unit in 2017 and a record low of 377.000 Unit in 1996. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Education. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.G005: Education Statistics.

The number of high school students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the academic year 2019/2020 was approximately 318.4 thousand students.

UAE former education system

The current education system of the United Arab Emirates has been developed only over the past 50 years in the first half of the 20th century. Education in the country, before oil discovery and independence from the United Kingdom, used to mainly depend on Islam. Educational circles led by Imams took place in mosques. As the education system expanded to the more modern forms, it was only available for male students in its early days. Modern education systems were founded promptly following the newly discovered petrol wealth in 1971. The number of primary and secondary school students in the country was expected to exceed one thousand million in 2022. In the academic year of 2017/2018, about half of school students were females.

UAE current education system 

The current education system is a K-12 school system; early childhood education, primary, lower and upper secondary education, followed by four-year bachelor’s degrees, and two-year master’s and doctoral degrees. Primary and secondary public-school education is compulsory and provided free of charge for Emirati nationals. There are two types of secondary schools, one focusing on technical skills, and the other focusing on academic subjects. Although the number of public and private schools in the year 2017/2018 was similar, more than 70 percent of school students were in private schools, while more than 66 percent of higher education students were in private higher education institutions.

United Arab Emirates Number of Schools data was reported at 1,226.000 Unit in 2017. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1,230.000 Unit for 2016. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools data is updated yearly, averaging 1,027.000 Unit from Jun 1976 (Median) to 2017, with 41 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,238.000 Unit in 2005 and a record low of 227.000 Unit in 1976. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Education. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.G005: Education Statistics.

In the 2017-2018 academic year, the number of schools within the public sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) amounted to 514. In that academic year, the total number of students in the school education stage in the United Arab Emirates amounted to 892.74 thousand.

The UAE Private K12 Education Market Report is Segmented by Geography (North Region, West Region, South Region, East Region), Source of Revenue (Kindergarten, Primary, Intermediary, Secondary), And Curriculum (American, British, Arabic/uae, Indian, And Other Curricula).

The UAE private K12 education market, valued at $6.67 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.50% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. A rising expatriate population, coupled with increasing disposable incomes among UAE residents, fuels demand for high-quality private education. Furthermore, the government's emphasis on education reform and its commitment to attracting global talent contribute significantly to market growth. Parents prioritize international curricula, such as American, British, and Indian, seeking globally recognized qualifications for their children. This preference drives the market segmentation, with American and British curricula likely holding the largest shares. The competitive landscape features established players like GEMS Education, Nord Anglia Education, and several international school chains, alongside smaller, specialized institutions. Competition is intense, driving innovation in teaching methodologies, technology integration, and extracurricular activities to attract students. Potential restraints might include fluctuating oil prices impacting disposable income and the potential for government regulations to influence tuition fees. However, the long-term outlook remains positive, given the UAE's economic diversification strategies and ongoing investments in its human capital. The market segmentation highlights significant opportunities for growth within specific curricula and school levels. The Kindergarten to Secondary segments demonstrate consistent demand, although the intermediary (middle school) segment might experience fluctuating growth based on population demographics. The presence of multiple international curricula allows for niche market targeting, suggesting potential for specialized schools catering to specific cultural or academic preferences. Geographic variations within the UAE's regions (North, West, South, East) may also lead to localized variations in market dynamics, with potential for higher growth in specific areas based on population density and socioeconomic factors. Future growth projections will likely be influenced by factors such as government policies on education spending, the influx of skilled workers, and the evolution of technological advancements within the education sector. Therefore, a strategic approach focusing on delivering high-quality education, catering to diverse needs, and adapting to technological advancements will be crucial for success in this dynamic market. Recent developments include: May 2023: Glendale International School opened its doors to students aged 3 to 11 in Dubai. Singapore-based Global Schools Foundation announced the launch. Sprawling over 20,000 square meters, the new premises can accommodate 3000 students., March 2023: Kings’ Education, Dubai, announced a partnership with Leap, the San Francisco headquartered end-to-end study abroad platform. This helps the company to better cater to their students.. Key drivers for this market are: Government Initiatives to Achieve High Education Standards is Driving Market Growth, Growing Preferences for Private Education is Driving the Market. Potential restraints include: Government Initiatives to Achieve High Education Standards is Driving Market Growth, Growing Preferences for Private Education is Driving the Market. Notable trends are: Increased Rate of Population Growth, including Expatriates.

The GCC K-12 private education market exhibits robust growth, projected at a CAGR of 11.39% from 2019 to 2033. In 2025, the market size reached $30.41 billion. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. A burgeoning population, coupled with rising disposable incomes and a strong emphasis on quality education, particularly within the private sector, are primary contributors. Parents are increasingly seeking international curricula (American, British, Arabic, CBSE, and others) to provide their children with globally competitive educational opportunities. The preference for smaller class sizes and a perceived higher quality of teaching within private institutions also contributes significantly to market growth. Furthermore, the presence of a large expatriate population further fuels the demand for international schools in the region. However, the market also faces certain constraints, such as fluctuating oil prices which may impact government spending on education and potential regulatory changes that could affect the sector. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook remains positive, driven by sustained population growth and a continued commitment to private education among GCC families. The segmentation by curriculum highlights diverse preferences, with a strong demand for established international standards alongside local curricula. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with numerous international and local players vying for market share. Notable players include Al-Jazeera Academy, British International School of Jeddah, and GEMS Education, showcasing the diversity and established presence of key operators within the GCC. The market's segmentation by source of revenue (Kindergarten, Primary, Intermediary, Secondary) indicates a balanced demand across all educational stages. While precise revenue breakdowns for each segment aren't provided, a logical assumption based on typical market structures suggests a slightly higher concentration in the Primary and Secondary segments due to longer durations of enrollment. The regional distribution of market share is likely concentrated within the GCC countries themselves, with other regions showing relatively smaller contributions. Future growth will be heavily influenced by government education policies, economic conditions, and continued investment in private education infrastructure and resources. Further analysis of specific curriculum preferences within each GCC country would offer a more granular understanding of market dynamics and opportunities. This report provides a detailed analysis of the burgeoning GCC K-12 private education market, offering invaluable insights for investors, educators, and policymakers. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base year and forecasts extending to 2033. The report analyzes market size (in millions), segmentation, key trends, and future growth prospects across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. High-search-volume keywords include GCC private schools, K-12 education market GCC, private education investment GCC, UAE K-12 market, Saudi Arabia private schools, and international schools GCC. Recent developments include: November 2023: GEMS International School unveiled its Innovation Hub. This hub has various sophisticated tools, including digital music production tools, 3D printing, coding resources, robotics, product design tools, and immersive technologies like Virtual Reality., March 2023: the UAE Ministry of Education unveiled plans to integrate AI tutors powered by ChatGPT into its classrooms. These innovative systems are designed to complement, rather than substitute, traditional teaching methods.. Notable trends are: British Curriculum Emerges as a Leading Choice in Gulf Education Landscape.

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Education Market in United Arab Emirates Size 2024-2028

The education market in United Arab Emirates size is forecast to increase by USD 5.41 billion at a CAGR of 9.46% between 2023 and 2028.

The Education Market in the United Arab Emirates is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing student enrollments and rising awareness of the importance of early education. The UAE government's investment in education infrastructure and initiatives, such as the establishment of world-class universities and schools, has attracted a large student population, both locally and internationally. Furthermore, the emphasis on early childhood education has led to an increase in demand for kindergartens, pre-schools and higher education. However, the education market in the UAE is not without challenges. The rising cost of education, particularly in the private sector, poses a significant barrier for many families.
Additionally, the high competition among educational institutions to attract students, coupled with the need to maintain high academic standards, puts pressure on schools and universities to continually innovate and improve. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively should focus on offering affordable education solutions, leveraging technology like e-learning to enhance learning experiences, and providing unique value propositions to differentiate themselves from competitors.

What will be the Size of the Education Market in United Arab Emirates during the forecast period?

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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) education market is experiencing significant growth and innovation, driven by a focus on global citizenship, sustainable development goals, and entrepreneurship. Venture capital funding has surged in the edtech sector, fueling the development of blended and mobile learning solutions, school management systems, and simulation software. Intercultural competence, multilingual education, and personalized learning pathways are key trends, with an emphasis on inclusive education and accessibility. Innovation in curriculum includes the adoption of inquiry-based learning, project-based learning, and experiential learning, while educational apps, interactive whiteboards, and collaborative learning tools enhance student engagement.
Tech hubs and innovation ecosystems are fostering the development of start-ups in the edtech space, with a focus on digital citizenship, lifelong learning, and predictive analytics. The UAE education market is also addressing climate change education, educational leadership, and cultural diversity, positioning itself as a global leader in the future of education.

How is this Education in United Arab Emirates Industry segmented?

The education in United Arab Emirates industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

End-user

  K-12
  Higher education
  Vocational education


Ownership

  Private education
  Public education


Type

  Traditional Education
  Online Learning
  Blended Learning


Curriculum

  International
  Local
  Specialized Programs


Geography

  United Arab Emirates

By End-user Insights

The k-12 segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The K-12 education segment in the UAE education market is characterized by a diverse mix of international and local private and public schools. The economic growth of the country, a large expatriate population, and the demand for high-quality English-medium education are key factors fueling the expansion of this market. The UAE government's commitment to ensuring unlimited enrollment of local children in international schools further boosts market growth. STEM education, adult education, and vocational training are other significant segments of the UAE education market. Investment in education, innovation in education through the use of educational technology such as augmented reality and virtual reality, and curriculum development are major trends driving market growth.

The market also prioritizes student support services, including personalized learning, assessment tools, and teacher training. Higher education institutions in the UAE are renowned for their academic performance and ranking high in global university rankings. They offer a wide range of programs, including coding education, Islamic education, and professional development. Public-private partnerships and quality assurance measures ensure the delivery of high-standard education. Continuing education, distance learning, and educational resources are essential components of the UAE education market, catering to the needs of students and professionals seeking to upskill and reskill. Corporate training and

United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Male data was reported at 13.000 Unit in 2016. This stayed constant from the previous number of 13.000 Unit for 2015. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Male data is updated yearly, averaging 5.000 Unit from Jun 1996 (Median) to 2016, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 13.000 Unit in 2016 and a record low of 1.000 Unit in 2008. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Male data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Education. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.G005: Education Statistics.

United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Mixed data was reported at 541.000 Unit in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 518.000 Unit for 2015. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Mixed data is updated yearly, averaging 447.000 Unit from Jun 1996 (Median) to 2016, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 541.000 Unit in 2016 and a record low of 374.000 Unit in 1996. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Mixed data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Education. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.G005: Education Statistics.

United Arab Emirates AE: School Enrollment: Primary: Private: % of Total Primary data was reported at 76.130 % in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 77.118 % for 2015. United Arab Emirates AE: School Enrollment: Primary: Private: % of Total Primary data is updated yearly, averaging 43.090 % from Dec 1981 (Median) to 2016, with 34 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 77.118 % in 2015 and a record low of 17.053 % in 1981. United Arab Emirates AE: School Enrollment: Primary: Private: % of Total Primary data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.World Bank: Education Statistics. Private enrollment refers to pupils or students enrolled in institutions that are not operated by a public authority but controlled and managed, whether for profit or not, by a private body such as a nongovernmental organization, religious body, special interest group, foundation or business enterprise.; ; UNESCO Institute for Statistics; Weighted average; Each economy is classified based on the classification of World Bank Group's fiscal year 2018 (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018).

United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Female data was reported at 9.000 Unit in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 11.000 Unit for 2015. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Female data is updated yearly, averaging 5.000 Unit from Jun 1996 (Median) to 2016, with 17 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 11.000 Unit in 2015 and a record low of 0.000 Unit in 2008. United Arab Emirates Number of Schools: Private: Female data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Education. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.G005: Education Statistics.

The number of students enrolled in the pre-primary education level in United Arab Emirates was approximately 210 thousand in 2021. The total number of student enrolled in the United Arab Emirates was 1.54 million.

United Arab Emirates AE: Gender Parity Index (GPI): Tertiary School Enrollment: Gross data was reported at 1.993 Ratio in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 2.136 Ratio for 2015. United Arab Emirates AE: Gender Parity Index (GPI): Tertiary School Enrollment: Gross data is updated yearly, averaging 2.286 Ratio from Dec 1978 (Median) to 2016, with 26 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 5.406 Ratio in 1992 and a record low of 1.718 Ratio in 1984. United Arab Emirates AE: Gender Parity Index (GPI): Tertiary School Enrollment: Gross data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.World Bank: Education Statistics. Gender parity index for gross enrollment ratio in tertiary education is the ratio of women to men enrolled at tertiary level in public and private schools.; ; UNESCO Institute for Statistics; Weighted average; Each economy is classified based on the classification of World Bank Group's fiscal year 2018 (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018).

United Arab Emirates AE: Secondary Education: Pupils: % Female data was reported at 48.608 % in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 50.051 % for 1998. United Arab Emirates AE: Secondary Education: Pupils: % Female data is updated yearly, averaging 47.866 % from Dec 1973 (Median) to 2016, with 26 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 50.705 % in 1993 and a record low of 25.631 % in 1973. United Arab Emirates AE: Secondary Education: Pupils: % Female data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.World Bank: Education Statistics. Female pupils as a percentage of total pupils at secondary level includes enrollments in public and private schools.; ; UNESCO Institute for Statistics; Weighted average; Each economy is classified based on the classification of World Bank Group's fiscal year 2018 (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018).

United Arab Emirates AE: Secondary Education: Pupils data was reported at 441,510.000 Person in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 190,576.000 Person for 1998. United Arab Emirates AE: Secondary Education: Pupils data is updated yearly, averaging 54,312.500 Person from Dec 1971 (Median) to 2016, with 28 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 441,510.000 Person in 2016 and a record low of 4,622.000 Person in 1971. United Arab Emirates AE: Secondary Education: Pupils data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.World Bank: Education Statistics. Secondary education pupils is the total number of pupils enrolled at secondary level in public and private schools.; ; UNESCO Institute for Statistics; Sum; Each economy is classified based on the classification of World Bank Group's fiscal year 2018 (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018).

United Arab Emirates AE: Primary Education: Pupils data was reported at 467,723.000 Person in 2016. This records an increase from the previous number of 460,975.000 Person for 2015. United Arab Emirates AE: Primary Education: Pupils data is updated yearly, averaging 238,469.000 Person from Dec 1971 (Median) to 2016, with 45 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 467,723.000 Person in 2016 and a record low of 22,009.000 Person in 1971. United Arab Emirates AE: Primary Education: Pupils data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Arab Emirates – Table AE.World Bank: Education Statistics. Primary education pupils is the total number of pupils enrolled at primary level in public and private schools.; ; UNESCO Institute for Statistics; Sum; Each economy is classified based on the classification of World Bank Group's fiscal year 2018 (July 1, 2017-June 30, 2018).

。AE：学校招生：次要：私人：占中学入学总人数百分比数据按年更新，12-01-2016至12-01-2016期间平均值为66.427%，共1份观测结果。CEIC提供的AE：学校招生：次要：私人：占中学入学总人数百分比数据处于定期更新的状态，数据来源于World Bank，数据归类于Global Database的阿拉伯联合酋长国 – 表 AE.世界银行：教育统计。