This year's fee increase by schools has been earmarked for a range of infrastructure enhancements, typically undertaken during the summer break when students are away. Leaders from various educational institutions across different emirates have stressed that the two-month summer holiday is the ideal time for school facility renovations. Upon their return on Monday, students found their school facilities upgraded. Improvements include smart classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and resource centers, alongside enhanced ICT, sports, and recreational facilities.
Sangita Chima, Principal of Amity School Dubai, noted: “A substantial portion of the revenue is invested in developing school facilities. This year, we have a newly equipped IT laboratory for Grade 10 students, featuring advanced equipment, technology, and software for diverse learning opportunities across all grades. Additionally, all labs have been adequately furnished to accommodate the significant increase in student numbers.”
Notably, private schools in Dubai were permitted to raise their fees by up to 5.2 percent this year, contingent on their performance in the latest Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) annual inspections. Principals in other emirates also mentioned that these additional resources have been used not only for infrastructure improvements but also for teacher training.
James McDonald, Principal/CEO of GEMS Wesgreen International School – Sharjah, stated: “While a portion of the fees is dedicated to infrastructure enhancements and ensuring our campuses are equipped with the latest resources, we also invest significantly in teacher development and student programs. This comprehensive approach ensures that our students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and highly skilled educators who continuously improve their skills. Every aspect of fee allocation is meticulously planned to maximize the educational experience and support our students’ academic and personal growth.”
McDonald added that the school has recently constructed robotics and STEAM rooms, equipped with cutting-edge resources, and renovated reception areas in both the Administration and Kindergarten buildings. “We have also created dedicated prayer rooms for our secondary students, ensuring their spiritual needs are supported. Looking ahead, we are excited about the upcoming indoor extension to our Kindergarten farm and the installation of retractable cricket nets on both campuses,” he said.
Furthermore, some school leaders emphasized that any increases primarily go toward teacher salaries. Simon Herbert, Head of School/CEO of GEMS International School – Al Khail, said: “Any increases are first and foremost directed towards teacher salaries and are not due to facility upgrades. However, it is crucial that our schools are maintained to meet the high standards expected by our families. The enhancements at GIS over the summer reflect our school’s strategy, vision, and mission.”
Principals noted that parents and families were visibly impressed by the upgraded lobby, reception, finance, and admissions areas for the new school year. “We also have a new Primary Inclusion Centre, emphasizing our commitment to serving our diverse community. Our Primary arts rooms have expanded, as has the IB DP/CP ‘Senior Hub’ for our Grade 11 and 12 students. We also have a new, soon-to-open sports hall. It has been a very busy summer for the contractors and our facilities teams, and we are deeply grateful for their hard work,” Herbert added.
