Three Prestigious Global Universities Are Launching Campuses in Dubai — Here’s Why It Matters

Wednesday, 30 July 2025

Dubai is strengthening its status as a global education hub with the addition of three world-renowned institutions to its academic landscape. Just in time for the 2025/26 academic year, the city will welcome new campuses from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, American University of Beirut, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences.

This announcement was made by Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), marking another milestone in the city’s ambition to become a top-tier global destination for higher education.

Table of Contents

• Why Students Are Flocking to Dubai
• Who’s Joining the Roster?
• Dubai’s Vision for a Global Academic Future
• The Strategy Behind the Growth
• Planning to Study in the UAE?
• Frequently asked questions

Why Students Are Flocking to Dubai

From year-round sunshine and dynamic student life to top-ranked universities, Dubai continues to attract learners from across the globe. The emirate already hosts 41 private higher education institutions, 37 of which are international branch campuses, offering a rich variety of programs that cater to the diverse needs of students.

Dubai’s strategic location, vibrant lifestyle, and growing academic reputation are proving to be irresistible for students seeking high-quality education with global recognition.

Who’s Joining the Roster?

Each of the three new universities brings its own area of excellence:

• IIM Ahmedabad — India’s top business school, whose business and management program ranks 27th globally in the QS World University Rankings by subject.
• American University of Beirut — A highly respected institution, ranking 237th overall worldwide, known for its liberal arts and research-driven curriculum.
• Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences — A prominent name in healthcare education, expanding its presence to support Dubai’s growing demand for medical professionals.

These additions join the ranks of other prestigious names already operating in the city, such as The University of Manchester, University of Birmingham, and Curtin University.

Dubai’s Vision for a Global Academic Future

Dubai has set its sights high — aiming to be among the top 10 global cities in the world. A major part of this vision is focused on education. By 2033, the city plans for international students to make up 50% of all higher education enrolments.

Last year alone, Dubai’s higher education sector experienced a record-breaking 20% increase in total student enrolments and an impressive 29% rise in international students. Today, over 42,000 students are enrolled across the city’s private universities — the highest figure ever recorded.

The Strategy Behind the Growth

According to Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA, the growth is part of a broader national effort aligned with Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Education 33 Strategy.

“This initiative supports Dubai’s social and economic goals,” Dr. Dawood explained. “It is designed to elevate the global standing of Dubai’s graduates, grow educational tourism by ten times by 2033, empower Emirati youth to thrive in future industries, and play a pivotal role in doubling the city’s economy — ultimately positioning Dubai as one of the world’s top three economic centers.”

Planning to Study in the UAE?

If you’re considering pursuing your studies in Dubai, now is a great time. With expanding options, globally respected degrees, and unmatched city life, the emirate is cementing itself as a leading destination for academic excellence.

Dubai is not just keeping up with global education trends — it’s setting them. With the arrival of IIM Ahmedabad, American University of Beirut, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences, the city continues to invest in a brighter, smarter future for the next generation of students.