How to Start an Educational Institute in Dubai:

Starting an educational institute in Dubai can be challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process and legal requirements. You also need to understand the KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority) and decide what kind of institute you want to set up.

Choosing the right location—Mainland or Free Zone—is also important. This guide will give you all the details and resources needed to help you open an educational institute in Dubai.

Dubai’s education sector has grown rapidly, and the city is committed to providing top-quality education. The market size is expanding and is expected to grow at a rate of 9.46% from 2023 to 2028.

Opening an educational institute in Dubai is a great investment because of its strong knowledge-based economy and diverse population. Other benefits include full ownership, flexible locations, partnerships with well-known international institutions, tax advantages, access to a large market, and a high quality of life.

However, to avoid problems later, it’s important to follow the key steps in the process.

Understanding KHDA

The KHDA oversees and regulates the education sector in Dubai, ensuring the quality of education provided. It is responsible for:

• Licensing and regulating educational institutions
• Setting guidelines for teaching, facilities, and curriculum standards
• Ensuring student welfare
• Conducting school inspections and performance ratings
• Promoting transparency and accountability in education
• Supervising higher education and academic institutions

Types of Educational Institutes in Dubai

Dubai offers many opportunities for opening different types of educational institutes, including:

• Early Childhood Centers (ECCs): These include nurseries, preschools, and daycare centers. There are 249 ECCs in Dubai, serving 23,779 students. You need approval from the KHDA to operate and must follow their guidelines.

• KG-12/13 Schools: These are primary and secondary schools. Currently, 216 private schools serve 326,001 students. You need a KHDA license to operate and must meet their standards.

• Higher Education Institutions: Universities, colleges, and vocational training institutes fall under this category. Dubai has over 65 such institutions, serving 30,032 students. You need licenses and must comply with KHDA regulations.

• Specialized Training Centers: These offer professional development and corporate training. There are 1,167 centers offering 70,504 courses, approved by the KHDA. Licencing depends on the nature of the training.

Steps to Open an Educational Institute in Dubai

1. Choose the Type and Location: Decide what kind of institute you want to open and choose between the mainland or a free zone for your location.

2. Submit the KHDA Application: This is the most important step. You must provide detailed information, such as:

   • Overview of your institute’s mission and vision
   • Market analysis to justify demand for your programs
   • Faculty credentials and training services offered
   • List of courses, certificates, and student recruitment strategies
   • Compliance with KHDA regulations

3. Gather Required Documents: These include:

   • Name reservation document
   • Shareholders’ and manager’s passport copies, signatures, and CVs
   • List of courses
   • For corporate shareholders, include resolutions or certificates
   • Other documents as required by the KHDA

4. Get Approvals and Pay Fees: Submit your application online and pay the required fees. The time for approval may vary depending on your institute’s size.

5. Obtain Additional Licenses: You may need extra permits, like trade licenses, tenancy contracts, and health and safety certificates.

After approval and obtaining the necessary licenses, you can begin operating your educational institute.

Where to Set Up Your Institute

• Dubai Mainland: Offers flexibility in location with 100% foreign ownership.
• Free Zones: Popular choices include:
  • Dubai Knowledge Park: Focuses on HR, recruitment, vocational training, and professional development.
  • Dubai Academic City: A hub for educational institutions, hosting branches of top universities.
  • Dubai Biotechnology & Research Park (DuBiotech): Ideal for biotechnology and pharmaceutical institutes.
  • Dubai International Academic City: Dedicated to higher education, hosting global universities.

Benefits of Setting Up in Dubai

• Full ownership without local partners
• Flexibility in choosing locations
• Partnerships with international institutions
• Tax benefits and access to a large, diverse market
• Modern infrastructure and quality of life

How Tycoon Can Help

Tycoon’s expert consultants can assist you with every step, from selecting the right location to completing your application and getting approvals. We ensure compliance with KHDA requirements and check your documents for a smooth process.

If you’re interested in starting an educational institute in Dubai, contact Tycoon Documents  for expert guidance.

FAQs

• Do you need a license to teach in Dubai? Yes, a KHDA license is required.
• How to get an educational professional license in the UAE? You need relevant qualifications and teaching certifications.
• What is KHDA approval? It is the license given by KHDA to ensure educational institutions meet quality standards.
• How long does KHDA approval take? It varies based on the size of the institute. Smaller operations may take days, while larger ones might take longer.
• Do you need a license to tutor in the UAE? Yes, a permit is required to tutor in the UAE.