By Joseph George
Latest figures point to steady enrolment across the GCC private school sector while operators redirect new capacity towards affordable and mid-market segments
Dubai, Sept 3, 2026: Private school enrolment across the GCC is picking up again, driven by strong demographic growth, expatriate inflows and an accelerating appetite for international curricula.
Across the region, private operators and regulators are reporting increased seat utilisation and steady demand as families prioritise academic continuity and long-term stability. This has also driven fresh investment and expansion by several international school brands across the GCC.
According to data from ISC Research, the GCC international schools market expanded 32% over the past five years to reach $14.4 billion annually, up from $10.9 billion. Across the region, the sector now encompasses 1,785 schools serving 1.8 million students and employing approximately 142,000 educators.
The UAE continues to lead regional activity, accounting for 898 institutions, representing half of all regional schools and 53% of total market value. UAE enrolment climbed 23% over five years, outpacing the 15% regional average. Saudi Arabia follows with 332 international schools, then Qatar with 219, Kuwait with 150, Oman with 117 and Bahrain with 69.
