Why GESS Dubai 2026 is the region’s meeting point for the next big ideas shaping tomorrow’s schools 

Dubai, Sept 21, 2026: The GCC’s international-school sector is expanding at pace. With almost 1.9 million students now enrolled across the region’s international schools, education leaders are being asked to look beyond growth and consider what truly prepares learners for the future. 

How can schools adopt AI responsibly? How can they better support and retain educators? What does an inclusive, sustainable and future-ready learning environment look like? 

From November 10–12, 2026, GESS Dubai returns to Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Saeed Halls 1–3, bringing together educators, school leaders, policymakers, investors, innovators and suppliers to explore these questions and the solutions behind them. 

This year’s edition 

The 2026 programme will address the conversations currently shaping education, from AI and digital transformation to teacher development, well-being, safeguarding, inclusion, sustainability and school design. 

Attendees will be able to explore five key streams: Leaders in Education, GESS Talks Live Stage, Sustainability & Well-being, Early Years and EdTech in Action. 

The agenda is designed to move beyond trends, focusing on the tools, ideas and strategies that can make a meaningful difference to educators and learners. 

Teachers can discover practical tools and learning strategies; school leaders can explore new approaches and connect with peers, while suppliers and innovators can showcase solutions direct to decisionmakers.  

Alongside its conference programme, GESS Dubai gives visitors the opportunity to explore education solutions in action. From AI and immersive technology to classroom resources, school-wide platforms and learning environments, the exhibition brings together international and regional suppliers in one place.  

The event also creates opportunities for professional development through CPD-accredited sessions, interactive workshops and conversations with experts and peers. It also places teacher well-being, workforce development and inclusion on the agenda. 

“Our aim is to bring the education community together to exchange ideas, challenge thinking and turn that momentum into meaningful progress,” says Sarah Palmer, Brand Director, GESS. 

AI, a key focus 

AI has moved rapidly from a future-facing conversation to a present-day reality for schools. GESS Dubai will explore both the opportunity and responsibility around AI, including educator control, student data protection, academic integrity and appropriate access for young learners. 

GESS Education Awards 

As a part of GESS Dubai, the 13th annual GESS Education Awards will take place on November 11, 2026, at The Conrad Hotel. With 30 categories, the awards recognise outstanding work by teachers, schools, suppliers and education professionals.
For more information and free registration, visit www.gessdubai.com.