Dubai-based school group plans significant expansion, with a focus on increasing student enrollment and catering to the growing demand from international families.
Abu Dhabi — GEMS Education, the Dubai-based international education provider, has announced plans to invest approximately $300 million over the next two to three years, as it looks to expand its footprint in the UAE. The company’s strategic move is driven by a rapidly growing local population and an influx of wealthy individuals seeking the benefits of the UAE’s tax advantages and world-class living conditions.
In an exclusive interview with Reuters, CEO Dino Varkey confirmed that the company is targeting a significant increase in its student body, aiming to enroll an additional 30,000 to 35,000 students by 2028. The rise in demand is largely attributed to families relocating to the UAE from both Eastern and Western countries, many of whom are attracted by the region’s favorable economic environment and lifestyle.
“Certainly, what we’re probably seeing right now is, given the nature of some of the tax reforms going on in parts of the UK and other parts of Western Europe, you are seeing perhaps a higher proportion of families choosing to relocate to the UAE from those parts of the world,” Varkey said.
A Flourishing Market and Strategic Investment
The UAE’s strategic position as a global hub for expatriates continues to strengthen, particularly among affluent families from regions such as the United Kingdom. Recent tax reforms, including the imposition of VAT on private school fees and changes to the non-domiciled tax status, have motivated many high-net-worth individuals to seek more tax-friendly environments, making the UAE an increasingly attractive option.
To further capitalize on this trend, GEMS Education is focused on increasing its student headcount, aligning with the growing demand for quality international education. Varkey highlighted that these efforts will be supported by strategic investments aimed at both expanding existing facilities and exploring potential acquisitions.
GEMS School of Research and Innovation: A Premium Offering
As part of its growth strategy, GEMS Education has already launched the highly anticipated GEMS School of Research and Innovation in Dubai, scheduled to open in August 2025. The school is set to become one of the most innovative and premium educational institutions in the region, offering a unique blend of cutting-edge facilities, an advanced curriculum, and personalized learning experiences.
Tuition fees at the school will range from AED 116,000 for Foundation 1 to AED 206,000 for Year 13, with Year 6 fees set at AED 152,000, according to Maryssa O’Connor, Vice President of Education at GEMS Education. The school is designed to cater to the growing demand for high-end educational options among expatriate families in the UAE.
“The GEMS School of Research and Innovation will set new standards for education in Dubai, providing an unparalleled experience for both students and families,” O’Connor said.
Private Equity Investment Strengthens GEMS’ Position
Last year, GEMS Education received significant backing from a consortium led by Brookfield Asset Management, further reinforcing the school operator’s standing in the competitive regional education sector. This investment underscores the growing confidence in the UAE’s education market, as private equity firms continue to show interest in local businesses poised for growth.
In addition to organic growth, GEMS Education is considering further acquisitions to broaden its offerings and solidify its leadership position in the region. The combination of organic expansion and strategic acquisitions positions GEMS Education as a key player in the rapidly evolving educational landscape of the UAE.
Looking Ahead: A Strong Future for GEMS Education
As GEMS Education continues to expand, the company is poised to benefit from the UAE’s dynamic growth. With a clear focus on innovation, quality, and international standards, GEMS is well-positioned to meet the educational needs of an increasingly affluent and diverse expatriate population.
By capitalizing on the influx of families relocating to the UAE, as well as leveraging its strategic investments and premium offerings, GEMS Education is set to play a significant role in shaping the future of education in the UAE, ensuring its place as a leading provider in the region’s thriving educational sector.
