Dubai Private School Tuition Fees Set to Go Up by 2.35%
- Publish date: Saturday، 03 May 2025 Reading time: 1 min read
KHDA allows fee hike for eligible for-profit schools in Dubai based on rising operational costs
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Private schools in Dubai that meet specific criteria can now raise tuition fees by up to 2.35% for the 2025–26 academic year. This cap was approved by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) based on the latest Education Cost Index (ECI).
The ECI reflects the cost of running a school—covering expenses like staff salaries, rent, and other services. It’s calculated using audited financial data submitted by schools, in coordination with Digital Dubai Authority.
Not All Schools Qualify
Only private schools that have been operating in Dubai for more than three years can apply for a fee increase. KHDA will review all applications to ensure they meet the required standards before any adjustments are approved.
More Schools, More Students
Dubai’s private school sector continues to grow. The city now has 227 private schools educating over 387,000 students from 185 nationalities. Enrolment went up by 12% in 2023–24 and another 6% in 2024–25.
In the past two years alone, 15 new schools have opened, with over 20 more currently under review. This is part of the broader Education Strategy 33, which aims to launch at least 100 new private schools by 2033.
Balancing Growth and Quality
KHDA says the approved fee hike helps schools manage rising costs while keeping education quality high. “This sustainable approach ensures that Dubai remains a hub for high-quality education,” said Shamma Al Mansouri, Director of Licensing and Education Services at KHDA.
The move aims to give parents more schooling options while supporting the financial health of private education providers.