International student numbers surge by 29% at KHDA-licensed institutions 

Dubai, June 3, 2025: Private higher education institutions licensed and regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai have reported a 20% rise in overall student enrolment in the 2024-25 academic year. The latest figures from the KHDA highlight this strong growth momentum across the sector. 

The total number of students currently enrolled in Dubai’s private higher education institutions is 42,000 across 41 private higher education institutions. 

International student enrolment has surged by 29% compared to the previous year, now representing 35% of total enrolments in Dubai’s higher education institutions. Meanwhile, Emirati participation in international universities has also grown by 22%, underscoring Dubai’s dual appeal to both domestic and global learners. Four new international institutions opened in the current academic year alone.   

These insights were highlighted during an exclusive briefing, hosted by LEK Consulting, which convened senior stakeholders, policymakers and higher education leaders to discuss Dubai’s accelerating transformation into a world-class higher education destination. The event featured key perspectives from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).    

“Dubai’s continued growth as a global hub for higher education is testament to our leadership’s vision and the ambitious goals of the Dubai Plan 33 and its social and economic agendas and driven by our Education 33 strategy,” says Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority. “We are creating new opportunities for transnational education, strengthening Dubai’s position as a city where learners, educators and institutions from around the world can connect, collaborate and thrive. Through E33, we are building a future where Dubai is not only a destination for quality education but a centre of knowledge, innovation and opportunity.”   

As the demand for transnational education, upskilling, and reskilling intensifies, Dubai’s blend of strategic policy, global connectivity, and education quality continues to position it as a top-tier alternative to traditional study destinations.  

“With a growing pool of graduates from our wonderful array of international schools in the city, Dubai presents a significant opportunity for international universities to meet the evolving needs of both local and international students,” says Ashwin Assomull, Partner and Head of the Global Education Practice at LEK Consulting. “Amid increasing regulatory restrictions in traditional anglophone markets, Dubai’s world-class higher education infrastructure, global connectivity, favourable cost structure and reputation for safety present unparalleled opportunities for students, operators and investors to capitalise on this transformative growth.”