Student enrolments in Dubai’s higher education institutions are projected to grow by more than 40% by 2030, according to a new white paper released by Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) and Dubai Knowledge Park, part of TECOM Group PJSC.
Growth forecast
The report, titled Future Skills and the Workforce of Tomorrow, was developed in collaboration with Times Higher Education (THE). It highlights how Dubai’s expanding education sector and talent-focused policies are attracting both local and international students. The study was presented at the British Council’s Going Global conference in London, attended by representatives from Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).
“Education can transform individual prosperity and collective economic growth, and we must collaboratively futureproof our sector for the good of all,” said Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai International Academic City, Dubai Knowledge Park, and Dubai Science Park, part of TECOM Group PJSC. “Future Skills and the Workforce of Tomorrow, developed in partnership with THE, sheds light on pathways for education institutes to leverage opportunities, increase student enrolment, and build rigorous pathways connecting higher education to employment.”
Rising enrolment and new campuses
The study found that more than 42,000 students were enrolled in Dubai’s higher education institutions during the 2024–25 academic year. The number of education providers has also increased by 37% in two years, reflecting growing transnational student demand. Among the latest additions is the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), which opened its Dubai International Academic City campus in September 2025.
Students are increasingly selecting programmes linked to emerging industries and career opportunities, with 73% of surveyed students citing employment prospects and strong industry ties as key reasons for studying in Dubai. Employers echoed this sentiment, with 88% saying graduates acquire workplace-relevant skills through local universities.
Strengthening global position
Dubai is now home to 41 private higher education institutions, including 37 international branch campuses from 12 countries. These include the University of Manchester, the University of Birmingham, and the University of Strathclyde Business School, all based within TECOM Group’s Education Cluster.
Guided by the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and the Education 33 Strategy (E33), the emirate continues to invest in building a skilled and future-ready workforce. TECOM Group’s network of 10 specialised business districts supports this vision by providing opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry.
The white paper combines research, interviews, and market analysis to map Dubai’s strengths as a global education hub and its growing role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
