Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has approved an Education Cost Index (ECI) of 2.35% for for-profit private schools in the emirate for the 2025-26 academic year.
The decision allows eligible schools to apply for a fee increase based on the approved ECI, which factors in operational costs such as staff wages, support services, and rental expenses.
KHDA’s approval follows an annual review of audited financial statements submitted by private schools, in collaboration with the Digital Dubai Authority. The new ECI aims to support schools in maintaining high-quality education while managing their resources efficiently.
Fee adjustments: Who’s eligible?
Private schools in Dubai must submit fee adjustment requests to KHDA, with the option to increase fees up to the approved ECI limit. Schools that have been in operation for less than three years are not eligible for any fee hikes. KHDA will review all applications to ensure they align with the set criteria for fee increases.
Shamma Al Mansouri, Director of Licensing and Education Services at KHDA, emphasized that the ECI is based on a transparent methodology. This approach ensures schools can manage their costs while offering quality education, in line with the needs of both students and parents. It also reflects Dubai’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in the education sector.
Growth in Dubai’s education sector
Dubai’s private education sector continues to expand, with 15 new private schools opening in the last two academic years. KHDA is reviewing more than 20 applications for new schools set to open in the next two years.
The sector has seen a 12% increase in enrolment in the 2023-24 academic year, with further growth of 6% in the 2024-25 academic year. This growth supports the goals of the Education Strategy 33, which aims to establish at least 100 new private schools by 2033.
