Dubai's KHDA Approves 2.35% Education Cost Index For For-Profit Private Schools In 2025-26

Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has set an Education Cost Index (ECI) of 2.35% for for-profit private schools in the emirate for the 2025-26 academic year. This decision follows an annual review of audited financial statements from Dubai's private schools, conducted with the Digital Dubai Authority.

The ECI considers various operational costs necessary to maintain high educational standards, such as staff salaries, support services, and rental fees. KHDA has informed all private schools in Dubai about the process for submitting fee adjustment requests for the upcoming academic year. Schools eligible for profit may apply for a fee increase up to the approved ECI limit.

Schools that have been operating in Dubai for less than three years are not eligible for fee adjustments. KHDA will review all applications to ensure they meet the criteria for fee increases. Shamma Al Mansouri, Director of Licensing and Education Services at KHDA, stated, "The Education Cost Index for fee adjustments is based on a robust and transparent methodology that supports schools in Dubai to manage their resources while maintaining a high quality of education in line with the needs of students and parents."

This approach aligns with Dubai Government’s commitment to transparency and efficiency within the education sector. It ensures that Dubai remains a top destination for quality education, supporting the goals outlined in the Education 33 Strategy.

Over the past two academic years, fifteen new private schools have opened in Dubai. KHDA is currently reviewing over 20 applications for new schools expected to open within the next two years, providing parents with more educational choices. Currently, there are 227 private schools in Dubai serving 387,441 students from 185 nationalities.

The private education sector saw a significant 12% rise in student enrolment during the 2023-24 academic year. Enrolment increased by another 6% during the 2024-25 academic year. This growth supports the objectives of Education Strategy 33, which aims to establish at least 100 new private schools by 2033.

The steady opening of new schools and increasing enrolment figures highlight Dubai's commitment to expanding its educational offerings. These developments aim to cater to diverse student needs while maintaining high standards across its private education sector.

With inputs from WAM