Dubai: The Dubai Schools project has received AED14 million in funding following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Knowledge Fund Establishment (KFE) and the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group (ESAG). The initiative aligns with Dubai's vision to develop an innovative, high-quality educational model that upholds Emirati values and ensures seamless access for all.
According to Emirates News Agency, the contribution supports the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 and the Dubai Education Strategy 2033, both of which focus on building a future-ready education system aligned with the emirate's long-term ambitions. The signing ceremony was attended by Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary-General of The Executive Council of Dubai and Chairman of the Steering Committee of Dubai Schools; Ahmad AbdulKarim Julfar, Chairman of the Board, Knowledge Fund Establishment; Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group; and Abdulla Al Awar, CEO of the Knowledge Fund Establishment.
Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti emphasized the significance of investing in education as a key driver of human, social, and economic development. He stated that guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai aims to position itself among the world's top 10 cities in education quality, in line with the Dubai Social Agenda 33.
Al Basti further highlighted that the Dubai Schools project, launched in 2021, reflects the leadership's commitment to making education a national priority and fostering public-private collaboration. He commended the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group for their support and pivotal role in advancing Dubai's journey as a global education destination.
Ahmad Abdulkarim Julfar remarked that education is the cornerstone of a sustainable and prosperous future. He noted that the initiative is not merely financial support but a strategic contribution to empowering a new generation of learners with the knowledge and skills to shape their communities. He reiterated KFE's commitment to advancing educational innovation and cultivating an inspiring learning environment that strengthens Dubai's position as a global hub for education and development.
Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg expressed pride in supporting impactful national initiatives such as the Dubai Schools project, emphasizing that education is the bedrock of sustainable development and a key enabler of youth empowerment. She highlighted that supporting education is an integral part of ESAG's long-term social responsibility.
Abdulla Al Awar expressed appreciation for ESAG's generous support, noting that this collaboration is a model of effective public-private partnership that expands access to quality education for all. He emphasized KFE's commitment to building strategic partnerships that enhance learning outcomes, broaden opportunities, and reinforce the principle of equal access.
Launched by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan in 2021, the Dubai Schools project offers a pioneering school model aligned with international standards and rooted in Emirati values. The project represents a significant addition to Dubai's educational ecosystem, focusing on capacity-building, cognitive and physical development, and advanced learning in science and technology. The Dubai Schools expansion plan aims to increase capacity to 15,000 seats by 2033 across campuses in Nad Al Sheba, Al Barsha, and Al Khawaneej.