Dubai Approves 2.35% Education Cost Index for Private School Fee Adjustments
Dubai's private schools may raise tuition fees by up to 2.35% in the 2025–26 academic year, following the approval of the Education Cost Index (ECI) by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
The ECI, determined through an annual review of audited financial statements in collaboration with the Digital Dubai Authority, reflects rising operational costs including staff salaries, support services, and rent. KHDA stated that the index is designed to help schools maintain high educational standards while managing resources efficiently.
Only for-profit schools that have operated in Dubai for more than three years are eligible to apply for fee adjustments, and any increases must not exceed the 2.35% cap. Each application will be reviewed to ensure compliance with KHDA's criteria.
Shamma Al Mansouri, Director of Licensing and Education Services at KHDA, said the ECI is part of a transparent and sustainable approach that aligns with Dubai's Education 33 Strategy. 'It supports schools in managing resources while meeting the expectations of students and parents,'
she added.
Dubai's private education sector continues to expand rapidly, with 15 new schools opening over the past two academic years and more than 20 applications currently under review. The emirate now has 227 private schools serving over 387,000 students from 185 nationalities.
Student enrolment rose 12% in 2023–24 and a further 6% in 2024–25, reinforcing the emirate's position as a regional hub for quality education. The Education Strategy 33 aims to open at least 100 new private schools by 2033 to meet growing demand.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
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