Record growth for Dubai’s higher education sector

Enrolments at higher education institutions that are licensed and regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) in Dubai continue to grow at record pace.

A total of 34,893 students are enrolled in Dubai’s private higher education institutions, up 12 per cent since the last academic year.

The number of international students – those who have come to Dubai specifically to study – increased by 25 per cent, nearly double the number of new enrolments compared to the previous academic year.

International students now comprise a third of all students at private higher education institutions in Dubai.

During the 2023-2024 academic year, five new international universities were inaugurated, increasing the total count of higher education providers licensed by the KHDA to 38.

"The increase in international student enrolment particularly reflects the city’s position as a preferred choice for students worldwide seeking quality education opportunities," said Aisha Miran, Director General of the KHDA.

"The expanding variety of programmes offered by our universities cater to a wide range of student ambitions, attracting future leaders and nurturing a hub for knowledge and innovation," she added.

International universities in Dubai offer over 650 programmes, with degrees in business, engineering, information technology, and media and design being the most sought-after.

Programmes in natural and physical sciences, humanities and law have experienced the highest growth in student enrolment compared to the previous academic year.

The majority of students (63%) are pursuing a bachelor's degree, while 28 per cent are enrolled in a master's programme, and two per cent are working towards a doctorate.

It's been a record year for universities in Dubai that are licensed and accredited by KHDA. Enrolment is up 12% compared to the last academic year, with nearly 35,000 students attending private universities in the emirate.https://t.co/t7oS9hZr5z pic.twitter.com/ZhW73az1rS

— KHDA | هيئة المعرفة والتنمية البشرية بدبي (@KHDA) April 22, 2024

Private higher education institutions licensed and regulated by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in #Dubai (@KHDA) have reported a significant increase in student enrolment, up by 12% since the previous academic year, as per the latest data revealed by the regulatory… pic.twitter.com/I9hP6ry1JR

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 22, 2024