Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has announced a 2.35% Education Cost Index (ECI) for for-profit private schools for the 2025-2026 academic year. This update affects how much schools can increase their fees for the upcoming year.

The ECI is calculated based on audited financial statements submitted by private schools in collaboration with Digital Dubai Authority. It reflects key operational costs like staff salaries, rent, and support services, ensuring schools can maintain a high standard of education.

Private schools in Dubai can adjust their fees depending on their individual inspection ratings from the Dubai School Inspection Bureau (DSIB) and the approved ECI. However, fee increases are only valid for the specific academic year and cannot be carried forward.

KHDA has informed all private schools about the process for submitting fee adjustment requests. Schools that have been operating for less than three years are not eligible to apply for an increase. KHDA will review all applications to ensure they meet the required criteria.

Dubai’s private education sector continues to thrive, currently serving over 387,000 students from 185 nationalities. Student enrollment grew by 12% in the 2023-24 academic year and an additional 6% in 2024-25. With 15 new schools opened in the last two years and over 20 more in the pipeline, KHDA’s vision aligns with the Education Strategy 33, aiming to open 100 new private schools by 2033.