New Schools and Universities Opening in Dubai by 2026
As Dubai continues to grow, the demand for quality education is on the rise. In response, several new schools and universities are scheduled to launch in 2026, catering to the needs of a diverse student population. These institutions promise to enhance the educational landscape of the emirate, offering a mix of international and local curricula.
Expansion of Educational Facilities
The Dubai Executive Council has recently approved a significant initiative aimed at expanding affordable education. This plan includes the establishment of 60 new schools by 2033, which will create approximately 120,000 additional student seats. The initiative, known as the ‘Policy to Expand and Promote Affordable High-Quality Schools,’ will provide incentives such as reduced fees and lower land leasing costs to attract private investment in the education sector.
New Schools Opening in 2026
Harrow International School Dubai
One of the most anticipated openings is Harrow International School Dubai, set to welcome students in 2026. This prestigious British institution, known for its long-standing educational heritage since its founding in 1572, will be located on a 50,000-square-metre site along Hessa Street. The school will accommodate up to 1,800 students and aims to provide a world-class education rooted in tradition.
Ash Mount School
Another notable addition is Ash Mount School, which will open in the Mudon community in August 2026. This International Baccalaureate (IB) institution will cater to students aged 3 to 18 and is being launched by Interstar Education, the organization behind several successful schools in Dubai. Ash Mount School will focus on a holistic learning approach, emphasizing both academic excellence and personal development.
Dubai International Academy Town Square
Innoventures Education is expanding its presence with the Dubai International Academy (DIA) Town Square, set to open in August 2026. This will be the third DIA campus in Dubai and will offer the full IB continuum, starting with the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP). Admissions for Pre-K to Grade 8 are already open for the 2026–2027 academic year.
Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet
The historic Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet, established over 450 years ago in the UK, is also making its debut in Dubai. This new campus, located in Dubai Sports City, is expected to open in August 2026. In partnership with GEDU Global Education, the school will follow the National Curriculum for England and provide a co-educational environment from Nursery to Year 8, with plans to expand to Sixth Form in subsequent phases.
Growth in Higher Education
Dubai’s higher education sector is also set to expand with the introduction of several prominent universities from abroad.
Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad
The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, one of India’s top business schools, will establish its first international campus in Dubai. Known for its high-ranking Business and Management program, IIM Ahmedabad aims to strengthen academic ties between India and the UAE, providing world-class management education to students in the region.
American University of Beirut
The American University of Beirut (AUB), ranked 237th globally in the QS World University Rankings, will also be opening a campus in Dubai. AUB’s rich academic tradition and extensive alumni network across the Middle East will contribute significantly to the multicultural higher education landscape in the emirate.
Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences
Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences is set to open a campus in Dubai, focusing on healthcare education. The college aims to produce skilled healthcare professionals and advance medical research in the region, addressing the growing demand for qualified medical personnel.
FAQs
What types of curricula will the new schools offer?
The new schools will offer a variety of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the National Curriculum for England, catering to a diverse student body.
When will the new schools and universities open?
Most of the new educational institutions are scheduled to open in August 2026, with some already accepting admissions for the 2026–2027 academic year.
How is Dubai addressing the demand for affordable education?
Dubai’s government has approved a plan to establish 60 new affordable schools by 2033, which includes incentives for private investment to help meet the growing demand for quality education.
Conclusion
Dubai is poised for a significant transformation in its educational landscape with the upcoming openings of various schools and universities in 2026. These new institutions will not only enhance educational options for residents but also contribute to the emirate’s goal of providing high-quality, affordable education. As these developments unfold, families can look forward to a broader range of choices for their children’s education.
Also Read:
152 New Business Service Centres Open in the UAE
