Dubai is implementing several reforms in its education system, including new student visas, international scholarships for students, and the need for a clear plan to get 90% of students to work in their field of study/degree. The objective is to be one of the top 10 student cities in the world by 2033.
The proposal was approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.
Added scholarships, improved job options, and world-class universities
Changes are part of Dubai’s Education Strategy 2033 to double the number of international branch campuses from 37 to 70. At least 11 of the branches are expected to be ranked in the world’s top 200. It is also hoped that by 2033, half of the university student population will be international learning students.
Key initiatives include:
- New student visa options
- New work visa options for graduates
- International scholarships and grants
- Branding of university clusters and a Higher Education Investment Fund
- Dubai Scientific Research Network
With all these initiatives in place, the contribution to Dubai’s GDP from the higher education sector should be around AED 5.6 billion.
Career Guidance Policy for Responsible Financial Management
The new Academic and Career Guidance Policy for Dubai is another big piece of the puzzle. This policy ensures:
- 90% of Emirati graduates will find employment within 6 months
- 80% of schools and universities will have solid career guidance provision
- 70% of graduates or students will gain acceptance to one of their 3 best preferred education or career pathways
This initiative, led by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), encourages initiatives like Life Skills Camps, student-parent partnership initiatives, and wider barriers to job market data.
Sustainability and Governance Strategies Also Discussed
In addition to education, the Executive Council approved some important National Strategies:
Air Quality Strategy 2030, which aims to meet 90% of the year’s clean air standards by reducing pollution levels and protecting people’s health
Dubai International Mediation Centre – which will provide recognised dispute resolution services around the world to build investor confidence
Governance Policy for Construction Projects – providing tiers and clear guidelines around how to process and expenditure on government projects, ultimately allowing better accountability and decisions for potential cost benefits or economic impacts.
Why Should This Matter to Global Students?
All these initiatives mean better access to top-level universities, more direct pathways to obtaining a visa, better access for post-education work opportunities, and access to vibrant multicultural engagement. You can see the vast opportunities whether you seek educational excellence from Dubai, career advancement options or a dynamic individual experience.
or cutting-edge research possibilities, Dubai is working diligently to become a favored destination for global learners.