Dubai is adding 26 new private education institutions for the 2026–27 academic year: 17 early childhood centres, seven schools and two international higher-education institutions. The announcement from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority gives families more choice, but it does not remove the need for careful comparison.
A school or nursery name is only the beginning. Parents should look at curriculum, location, transport, fees, inclusion support, facilities, inspection information and whether the setting suits the child’s learning needs. The KHDA announcement confirms that the seven new schools will add 16,846 places, while the early-childhood centres will add more than 1,700 places.
What is opening in Dubai?
| Institution type | Number announced | What this can mean for families |
|---|---|---|
| Early childhood centres | 17 | More nursery choices and curriculum options closer to home |
| Private schools | 7 | Additional places across UK and International Baccalaureate curricula |
| International higher-education institutions | 2 | More university options within Dubai |
The new schools include Dubai campuses of Harrow International School, Queen Elizabeth’s School Dubai Sports City and Rugby School Dubai, according to KHDA. The authority also says the new early-childhood centres will offer curricula including EYFS, Montessori, Ontario, French and Indian options.
Start with the family’s real priorities
There is no universal “best” school. A good match depends on the child and the family’s daily reality. Start with a short list of non-negotiables:
- reasonable commute time;
- curriculum and future pathways;
- annual fee range and additional costs;
- year-group availability;
- language support;
- inclusion provision;
- transport and after-school options;
- school culture and communication style.
It is sensible to rank these in order. A school may have impressive facilities, but a difficult daily journey can affect family life. Equally, a convenient location should not replace questions about educational support and the child’s wellbeing.
How to research before applying
Use the KHDA directory to check official information on schools and higher-education institutions. Attend an open day where possible, but prepare questions in advance. Ask about the admissions process, waiting lists, fee structure, transport, staff turnover, communication with parents and support for different learning needs.
Parents should also ask what is included in the advertised tuition fee. Costs can vary for registration, uniforms, books, devices, transport, activities, meals and trips. Get the information in writing and avoid relying on social-media summaries.
For families new to Dubai, our Dubai family and friends visit-visa guide can help when relatives are planning a visit during the move. Our Dubai back-to-school guide offers practical ideas for the first week, while the Dubai public-transport guide can help families understand city travel.
A calmer application checklist
- Create a shortlist of three to five realistic options.
- Confirm year-group availability before booking visits.
- Compare total annual costs, not tuition alone.
- Check the journey at the time you would travel each day.
- Ask about learning support and pastoral care.
- Read the official KHDA information.
- Keep copies of applications, receipts and school communications.
Families can still make room for enjoyable weekend plans during the school-search process. See our Expo City family day-out guide, Dubai September events guide and Dubai dining offers guide for family-friendly planning ideas. For visitors supporting a move, our best Dubai beach hotels guide may also be useful.
Questions people often ask
How many new private education institutions are opening?
KHDA announced 26 new institutions: 17 early childhood centres, seven schools and two international higher-education institutions.
How many new school places are being added?
The seven new private schools are expected to add 16,846 places.
Which curricula will the new schools offer?
KHDA says four new schools will offer the UK curriculum and three will offer the International Baccalaureate.
How can parents compare Dubai private schools?
Use the KHDA directory, visit shortlisted schools, compare total costs and ask about availability, support services and the daily commute.
Where can I read the official announcement?
Read the KHDA update on Dubai’s new private education institutions.
