KHDA Partners With Dubai International Academic City To Strengthen Global Education Framework
Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park have partnered with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) to boost higher education in Dubai. This collaboration aims to position Dubai as a premier learning hub globally. The agreement aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Education 33 strategy, formalised during The Knowledge Assembly hosted by KHDA and TECOM Group’s education cluster.
The partnership was signed by Saeed Mubarak Kharbash, CEO of Policies, Research and Programmes at KHDA, and Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice-President of Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park. Aisha Miran, Director-General of KHDA, and Abdulla Belhoul, CEO of TECOM Group, were present at the signing ceremony.

Kharbash highlighted that this partnership will enhance collaboration within the higher education sector. It aims to attract global talent, drive research and innovation, and improve student experiences in Dubai. Janahi noted that initiatives like the Higher Education Leadership Network will ensure educational offerings meet industry needs.
The two districts will work closely with KHDA to attract international universities and vocational institutions. They aim to promote Dubai as a global student destination while coordinating policies supporting research, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Enhancing extracurricular activities is also a priority under this partnership.
A key initiative is the launch of the Higher Education Leadership Network. This platform will facilitate strategic alignment, collaboration, and thought leadership among stakeholders. It aims to ensure that educational offerings align with evolving industry demands.
The Knowledge Assembly event gathered senior leaders from academia, industry, and government sectors. They explored how higher education can serve as an economic driver for Dubai. Speakers included representatives from various institutions such as Dubai Health, University of Birmingham Dubai, University of Wollongong, and in5.
Supporting Dubai’s Knowledge Economy
Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park host leading universities and institutions. Together they form part of TECOM Group’s portfolio of ten business districts supporting Dubai’s knowledge economy. These efforts are crucial for maintaining Dubai's status as a world-class learning destination.
This strategic partnership underscores the commitment to enhancing educational standards in Dubai. By fostering collaboration across sectors, it aims to create a vibrant ecosystem that attracts talent worldwide while driving innovation locally.
With inputs from WAM