JobXDubai

Dubai’s education landscape is poised for a prestigious addition. Taaleem, the DFM-listed education provider, aims to bring the renowned Harrow brand to the UAE by September 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

Harrow’s Arrival in the UAE

Alan Williamson, CEO of Taaleem, shared exciting details about the company’s plans to introduce Harrow schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi:

• Timeline: Targeting September 2026 opening
• Locations:
  • Dubai: Hessa Street
  • Abu Dhabi: Saadiyat Island
• Investment: Each school requires over AED 300 million in capital expenditure

Williamson emphasized, “We are on track with the land for these schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and on track with where we need to be on the regulatory approval side.”

Taaleem’s Strategic Expansion

The acquisition of Gulf-wide rights for Harrow marks a significant milestone in Taaleem’s growth strategy. This move aligns with the increasing demand for premium and super-premium schools in the UAE.

Key Financial Highlights:

• Revenue: AED 830.7 million (up 15% year-on-year)
• Profit: AED 277.6 million (up 38.9%)
• Capacity added: Over 9,000 students (64% increase)

Beyond the UAE: Future Plans

While focusing on the UAE launch, Taaleem is also exploring opportunities in Saudi Arabia:

• Potential new school in Riyadh (non-Harrow brand)
• Considering management contracts
• Exploring expansion of Al Raha International brand outside UAE

Meeting Growing Demand

Williamson noted, “Demand for UAE schools in the premium and super-premium category is running well ahead of supply.” To address this, Taaleem is:

• Opening Dubai British School Jumeira in September 2024 (1,900 student capacity)
• Adding approximately 2,400 seats to the premium segment in the upcoming academic year

A New Era in UAE Education

Khalid Al Tayer, Chairman of Taaleem, expressed optimism about the company’s trajectory: “Looking ahead to the upcoming academic year, we are poised to add approximately 2,400 seats to our premium segment, with the construction Dubai British School Jumeira now complete, and the expansion of Greenfield International School nearing completion.”

The introduction of Harrow schools to the UAE marks a significant step in elevating the country’s educational offerings, further cementing its position as a global education hub.