Dubai is all set to welcome a monumental addition to its education landscape — the prestigious Harrow School from the UK. Known for its centuries-old tradition of academic excellence and leadership, Harrow will open its first campus in Dubai in 2026. The school will be situated on a sprawling 50,000 square meter plot along Hessa Street. This launch marks a significant milestone not only for Dubai’s rapidly evolving education sector but also for the Harrow brand as it ventures further into the international schooling arena.
Dubai’s Education Landscape Welcomes a Global Giant
Over the years, Dubai has transformed itself into a global education hub, attracting top-tier institutions from around the world. With a focus on international standards and innovation, the city continues to attract families seeking premium education options for their children. The inclusion of Harrow School, one of Britain’s oldest and most respected educational institutions, adds further prestige and depth to Dubai’s schooling ecosystem.
The entry of Harrow into the UAE was facilitated by Taaleem, a Dubai Financial Market (DFM)-listed education provider known for operating high-quality academic institutions. With its already strong portfolio of schools, Taaleem’s collaboration with Harrow brings a new layer of super-premium educational offerings to the emirate.
Taaleem’s Role in the Expansion of British Education in the UAE
Taaleem is no stranger to pushing boundaries in the UAE’s education sector. By teaming up with Harrow, the company is making a strong statement about its commitment to excellence and global partnerships. This new Harrow School in Dubai will be Taaleem’s second such project in the UAE, the first being located on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island, also set to open in 2026. The move aligns with Taaleem’s strategy to solidify its presence in the high-end education segment.
The deal for the Dubai campus was signed between Taaleem and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the key regulatory body overseeing private education in Dubai. The partnership emphasizes both parties’ shared vision of bringing globally recognized education to the UAE.
A School Rooted in History and Excellence
Harrow School, originally established in 1572 in the UK, is one of the world’s oldest and most renowned schools. Its alumni list includes legendary figures such as Winston Churchill and several British Prime Ministers. Harrow has always stood for excellence, leadership, discipline, and integrity — values that it aims to instill in its international campuses as well.
The Dubai campus is expected to uphold these same traditions, bringing a British-style curriculum infused with Harrow’s core values. From academics to leadership training, the school promises to maintain a holistic approach to education, focusing equally on personal development and intellectual growth.
State-of-the-Art Campus Designed for a Modern Learning Experience
The Harrow School Dubai campus will be designed by KODA architects, known for their innovative and functional educational facilities. The campus will feature purpose-built classrooms equipped with modern learning tools, spacious sports complexes, and dedicated arts facilities to nurture creativity. The infrastructure is planned to support a variety of extracurricular programs and leadership initiatives, helping students grow into well-rounded individuals.
The school will accommodate up to 1,800 students, offering them not just academic knowledge but also real-world skills and a sense of global citizenship. With its strategic location on Hessa Street, the school is easily accessible to families across key residential neighborhoods in Dubai.
Implications for Parents and the Future of Premium Schooling in Dubai
For parents, the arrival of Harrow School offers an exciting new option in the super-premium education category. It caters to those who are looking for an education system that mirrors the standards of elite British institutions, right here in the UAE. From leadership training to state-of-the-art learning environments, Harrow aims to provide a transformative experience for its students.
Moreover, the expansion of Harrow in the UAE signals a broader trend where Dubai is increasingly becoming a destination for world-class education. It also places competitive pressure on other schools to raise their standards and innovate, ultimately benefiting the student community across the board.
A New Chapter in the UAE’s Educational Journey
The announcement of Harrow School’s opening in Dubai is not just a big moment for Taaleem and the KHDA, but also a significant development for the UAE’s overall education sector. With its impressive history, modern facilities, and focus on leadership and excellence, Harrow School is poised to become one of the most sought-after educational institutions in the region.
As Dubai continues to attract global talent and international families, the need for reputable, globally-aligned educational options becomes even more critical. Harrow’s entry into the market fulfills that need and raises the bar for what high-quality education can look like in the Middle East.
