Dubai KFE Unveils 2026–2028 Knowledge Economy Plan

Dubai’s Knowledge Fund Establishment (KFE) has officially unveiled its 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, reinforcing the emirate’s ambition to become a global leader in the knowledge economy. The plan focuses on advancing education, strengthening national talent, and building a sustainable and innovation-driven society.

Aligned with the Dubai Education Strategy 2033, as well as broader economic and social agendas, the initiative reflects a unified approach to long-term development and global competitiveness.

Three key pillars driving the strategy

The new roadmap shifts toward execution, aiming to deliver measurable outcomes by 2028 through three core priorities:

• High-impact education initiatives to improve quality of life and social cohesion

• Efficient management of educational assets to support sector growth

• Financial sustainability through diversified investments and revenue streams

Major expansion in education access

KFE plans to significantly expand education capacity across Dubai:

• Over 35,000 new student seats to be created by 2028

• Allocation of 30+ educational assets in key areas

• Dubai Schools project to exceed 7,000 student capacity

• Annual addition of 1,000 new seats

A new campus in Nad Al Sheba is also set to open soon, responding to rising demand for high-quality education that blends global standards with national identity.

Focus on talent and future leaders

The strategy places strong emphasis on developing Emirati talent:

• Expansion of the Dubai Distinguished Students Programme across the UAE

• Growth of the Young Investor Programme, targeting 20,000+ students by 2028

• New initiatives to attract Emirati educators into private schools

• Launch of annual research grants to drive innovation in education

Strengthening investment and sustainability

KFE is enhancing its financial ecosystem with a diversified investment strategy:

• Managing a portfolio exceeding AED 1 billion

• Exploring new revenue streams to fund education initiatives

• Establishing a dedicated endowment fund to support scholarships, research, and innovation

This fund will also provide a transparent platform for donors and partners to contribute to long-term social impact.

Leadership vision

Chairman Ahmed Abdul Karim Julfar emphasized that the strategy reflects Dubai’s commitment to building a competitive and sustainable knowledge economy through strong partnerships and targeted investments.

CEO Abdulla Mohammed Al Awar added that the plan serves as a comprehensive execution framework, ensuring alignment between education outcomes and future economic needs.