Dubai welcomes IIM Ahmedabad: 25 new schools, nurseries & universities set to open in 2025-26

Dubai is set to welcome the globally renowned Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad) as part of its ambitious plan to add 25 new educational institutions for the 2025-26 academic year. Alongside IIM Ahmedabad’s new campus, families in Dubai can look forward to six new schools, including UK and French curriculum choices, three international universities, and sixteen early childhood centres, offering thousands of new seats for students and young learners.

TL;DR:

• 25 new institutions: 16 early childhood centres, six schools, and three international universities will open in Dubai, adding over 11,700 new school seats and 2,400 early childhood enrolments.
  
  
  
• New schools feature five UK curriculum campuses and one French curriculum campus, expanding curriculum choices for families.
  
  
• Higher education options grow with the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, American University of Beirut, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences joining Dubai’s academic landscape.
  

Details of new institutions
Dubai’s new institutions include:

• Early Childhood Centres: 16 new centres, with 11 offering the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum, three following the Creative Curriculum, one Montessori, and one Maple Bear centre.
  
• Schools: Five UK curriculum schools (Gems Education School of Research and Innovation, Victory Heights Primary, Dubai British School Mira, Dubai English Speaking School, and Al Fanar School) and one French curriculum school (Lycee Français International, Mudon).
  
• International Universities: The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (ranked 27th globally in QS World University Rankings by subject), American University of Beirut (ranked 237th), and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences from Saudi Arabia.
  

This expansion will add more than 11,700 school seats and 2,400 nursery places, providing families greater choice and flexibility.

Official perspective and strategic context
KHDA director general Aisha Miran stated that these new additions enhance not just the scale of Dubai’s private education sector, but also its quality and diversity. The move aligns with the city’s Education 33 strategy, which aims for high-quality education at every stage and prepares learners for future success. Welcoming trusted operators and innovative models helps communities thrive and supports Dubai’s long-term aspirations.
With these additions, Dubai’s private sector will comprise 331 early childhood centres, 233 schools, and 44 higher education institutions. The opening of the American University of Beirut is historically significant, reflecting the internationalization of Dubai’s academic market and supporting regional knowledge exchange.
Dubai’s commitment to expanding its private education network brings new opportunities for families, students, and investors. Enhanced school, nursery, and university options ensure Dubai remains a regional leader in educational quality, diversity, and innovation.

FAQ
Q. Which global universities are opening campuses in Dubai in 2025?
Dubai will welcome the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM), American University of Beirut, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences.

Q. What types of private educational institutions will be added?
There will be 16 early childhood centres, six new schools (mostly UK and one French curriculum), and three international universities.

Q. How many new seats will be available for students and early learners?
Over 11,700 new school seats and more than 2,400 seats in early childhood centres will be added in the 2025-26 academic year.

Q. What education strategies are driving this expansion?
Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy (E33) aims to promote high-quality, accessible education at all levels and reflects strong investor confidence and social goals for the city.