Dubai’s population and spending have exceeded pre-crisis levels as the emirate recovers from regional disruption, according to Dubai Economic Development Corporation CEO Hadi Badri. Speaking at the Dubai Business Forum – China in Shenzhen on October 14, 2026, Badri highlighted population growth, domestic activity, and international capital inflows as key growth drivers. He outlined the city's broader economic resilience and business opportunities under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to Chinese enterprises.
Hundreds of private school and university educators in Dubai have qualified for 10-year residency under a specialized Golden Visa initiative. Launched under directives from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the programme has received more than 835 applications since its rollout in October 2024. The scheme forms part of Dubai's Education 33 strategy to attract and retain educational talent.
Dubai has outlined the eligibility criteria for teachers and educators applying for the Golden Visa, confirming that over 835 applications have been submitted since the initiative began. The scheme applies to qualifying staff in private early childhood centres, schools, and higher education institutions under Dubai's Education 33 strategy. Applicants are evaluated on academic achievements, improvements to education quality, student outcomes, and community feedback.
Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced the opening of 26 new private educational institutions for the 2026-27 academic year under its Education 33 Strategy. The expansion adds nearly 17,000 school seats and features international university launches, including Peking University HSBC Business School. The authority is also prioritising AI literacy, future workforce skills, and the addition of 18,000 affordable school places over the next two years.
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