In a bid to solidify its position as a premier educational destination for exceptional students from around the globe, Dubai is set to open three new branches of international universities for the academic year 2025-2026. This initiative, announced by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), underscores Dubai’s commitment to enhancing its academic landscape and attracting top-tier institutions.
New University Branches in Dubai
The new additions to Dubai’s educational framework include the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, which offers an MBA program and ranks 27th globally according to the QS World University Rankings for 2026 by specialization. Joining it are the American University of Beirut, ranked 237th globally, and the Fakih Medical Sciences College. This expansion is part of a broader trend, as Dubai experiences increasing interest from esteemed international universities looking to establish branches in the emirate.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. Wafi Dawood, Executive Director of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA, stated, “Dubai’s initiative to attract the world’s top universities, approved by the Executive Council of Dubai, reflects the emirate’s international stature and the unwavering support from its leadership to make Dubai a leading global hub for students and prestigious higher education institutions.” He emphasized that this strategy aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai 2033 Plan and its economic and social agendas.
International Reputation
During the academic year 2024-2025, licensed higher education institutions overseen by KHDA registered an unprecedented 20% increase in student enrollment, with a total of 41 accredited universities, including 37 branches of international universities. These institutions currently cater to 42,026 students across approximately 706 diverse academic programs, all strategically designed to equip learners with future-ready skills in line with the emirate’s educational objectives for 2033.
Diverse Opportunities
According to the QS World University Rankings for 2026, various higher education institutions with branches in Dubai excel in business disciplines. Noteworthy mentions include the London Business School, ranked 7th globally, and HEC Paris, ranked 54th. Additionally, the Istituto Marangoni, known for its specialized programs in design education, ranks between 51 and 100 in the Arts and Design category.
Dubai’s initiative to attract the best international universities will foster a progressive learning environment that emphasizes cross-border education and national programs, aiming for international students to represent 50% of the total enrollment in higher education institutions by 2033. This endeavor not only aims to contribute 5.6 billion dirhams directly to the GDP from higher education but also positions Dubai as one of the top ten cities globally for university study.