Dubai School Keeps Tuition Fees Unchanged

Despite KHDA-Approved Hike, Dubai School Freezes Fees

For Dubai's private schools, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) approved a tuition fee increase for the 2025–2026 academic year, which translates to a 2.35% rise based on the Education Cost Index (ECI). This decision is rooted in the analysis of schools' annual financial statements and collaboration with the Digital Dubai Authority, considering changes in operational costs, rents, and support services. However, one private school in Dubai chose not to raise tuition fees for the upcoming school year despite this opportunity.

The Philosophy Behind the Decision

According to the school's administration, this decision is a deliberate commitment towards parents to provide high-quality education without imposing additional financial burdens on families. The administration emphasized its dedication to long-term developments, with the modernization of infrastructure and the maintenance of a safe, quality learning environment remaining top priorities.

The school continuously invests in infrastructure development, including the modernization of classrooms, acquisition of digital tools, and expansion of facilities available to students. These investments aim to provide students with the best learning experience, regardless of tuition changes.

Supporting and Developing Teachers

Despite not raising tuition fees, the institution emphasized its ongoing commitment to supporting and developing its teaching staff. The administration outlined its pursuit of opportunities to enhance teachers' well-being and professional growth, including regular training, competitive benefits, and the development of motivational programs.

The goal is for educators not only to feel recognized but also to ensure their professional development, thus offering students a higher standard of education. The institution's philosophy is that satisfied and supported teachers can deliver the best performance in classrooms.

Impact of the KHDA Decision on Other Private Schools

While this institution decided not to utilize the 2.35% tuition increase approved by the KHDA, many other private schools in Dubai announced their intention to do so. The KHDA-approved increase allows schools to invest in key areas such as improving teaching quality, building modern infrastructure, and developing learning programs.

The decision is backed by the ECI, which is determined based on comprehensive analysis of annual financial reports. The ECI includes teachers' salaries, building rental costs, and support services, ensuring students receive world-class education.

GEMS Education and Ambassador School's Stance

GEMS Education, one of Dubai's well-known educational institutions, welcomed the KHDA decision. According to the administration, the ability to raise tuition fees is crucial for the development of teachers, curricula, and infrastructure, which are essential for providing high-quality education. GEMS Education aims to further strengthen the school environment and learning experience through this increase.

The Ambassador School Dubai also supported the KHDA decision, viewing the increase as an essential step to maintain educational standards. According to the institution's administration, the increase focuses on three key areas: developing learning environments, investing in technology, and ensuring competitive teachers' salaries. These measures guarantee that students continue to receive high-quality education while ensuring teachers' satisfaction and professional development.

Summary

While KHDA approved tuition increases for private schools for the 2025–2026 academic year, one Dubai school decided not to take this opportunity. This decision aims to ease the financial burden on parents and align with the institution's long-term development plans. The school is committed to developing infrastructure and supporting teachers so that students can continue to receive high-quality education. Meanwhile, other private schools like GEMS Education and Ambassador School Dubai view the KHDA-approved increase as an important step in maintaining and enhancing educational standards.

(Source of the article: Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) statement.)