UAE schools hike fees to boost salaries, facilities

The schools implemented a fee increase earlier this year to fund different infrastructure improvements usually done in the summer when students are on vacation.

School administrators from different emirates stressed that the best time for repairing school facilities is during the two-month summer break.

• Students returned on Monday after an extended break.

• School facilities have been upgraded during the break.

• Enhancements include modern classrooms, labs, and libraries.

• New resource centers have been added.

• Technology, sports, and leisure facilities have been upgraded.

According to Sangita Chima, Principal of Amity School Dubai, a considerable portion of the income is invested in enhancing the school facilities. This year, Grade 10 students have access to a newly equipped IT lab. This consists of tools, devices, and programs for different educational experiences in all stages... also all laboratories have been equipped with sufficient amenities due to the considerable rise in student population.

This year, private schools in Dubai were permitted to raise their fees by as much as 5.2 percent based on their performance in the KHDA yearly inspections.

Professional growth for educators

Principals from other emirates also mentioned that aside from improving infrastructure, these resources from the fee hike have also been used for faculty development.

• James McDonald, Principal/CEO of GEMS Wesgreen International School in Sharjah, made the statement.

• Some fees are allocated to improving infrastructure and upgrading campus resources.

• A significant focus is placed on developing teachers.

• The school also emphasizes implementing student programs.

This comprehensive method guarantees that our students receive the advantages of both modern facilities and expert educators who are always honing their skills. Every part of fee distribution is meticulously organized to enhance the learning experience and aid in the academic and personal development of our students," he stated.

McDonald said that the school has just constructed robotics and STEAM rooms, which are now equipped with state-of-the-art resources, and also revamped reception areas in the Administration and Kindergarten buildings.

We have established separate prayer spaces for our high school students, guaranteeing that their spiritual requirements are met. He also mentioned our anticipation for the new indoor addition to our Kindergarten farm and the installation of retractable cricket nets on both campuses.

Furthermore, certain school administrators pointed out that any rises mostly benefit teacher pay.

Principals noted that parents and families visiting for the start of the new school year were noticeably impressed by the renovated lobby, reception, finance, and admissions sections.

We have recently established a Primary Inclusion Center to reinforce our commitment to supporting our varied community. Our main arts classrooms have grown in size, along with the IB DP/CP 'Senior Hub' for Grade 11 and 12 students. We have a newly built sports hall that will be opening soon. Overall, this summer has been filled with a lot of work for the contractors and our facilities teams, and we are very thankful to them for their effort,” Herbert said.

Discover how UAE schools are enhancing education with fee hikes for better salaries and upgraded facilities—learn more about the improvements today and subscribe to Just Dubai! 

More References