How to Obtain a KHDA Licence in Dubai for Educational Institutions
Dubai is fast becoming one of the world’s top destinations for quality education. With its multicultural population, world-class infrastructure, and strong government backing, the emirate provides a thriving landscape for establishing schools, training centers, and higher education institutions. To operate legally and maintain quality standards, all educational providers in Dubai must secure a KHDA licence.
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) is the regulatory authority for education in Dubai. Whether you're planning to open a nursery, K-12 school, university, language institute, or vocational training center, the KHDA ensures your institution adheres to the emirate’s standards for academic excellence, safety, and management. Here, we explore how to obtain a KHDA licence in Dubai, the requirements involved, associated costs, and why expert guidance can simplify the process.
What Is a KHDA Licence?
The KHDA licence is a mandatory regulatory approval issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority to any educational institution operating in Dubai. It works in conjunction with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) trade license, validating your institution's ability to offer educational services that align with Dubai’s education framework and vision.
KHDA regulates and monitors all private education sectors in Dubai, including:Schools and nurseries
Universities and higher education institutions
Language and training centers
E-learning platforms and professional development centers
Getting a KHDA licence is not only a legal requirement but also improves the credibility, visibility, and trustworthiness of your educational business in Dubai.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a KHDA Licence in Dubai
Setting up an educational institution in Dubai involves a blend of administrative approvals, regulatory compliance, and right planning. Below is a structured roadmap for obtaining your KHDA licence:
1. Business Activity Selection and Legal StructureStart by selecting the right business activity for your educational institution. Based on the nature of your services (nursery, training institute, university, etc.), you’ll need to define the legal structure of your company—whether as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or LLC. You’ll also need to choose whether you’re setting up on the mainland (licensed by DET) or in a free zone such as Dubai Knowledge Park or Dubai Academic City.
2. Initial Approval from KHDA
Before proceeding with your trade license, you must acquire initial approval from KHDA. This includes:
Submitting a letter of intent explaining the type of institution, proposed curriculum, target audience, and facilities
Providing passport copies and qualifications of the owner and key management
Drafting a detailed business and education planThe KHDA analyses your proposal based on Dubai’s education market needs, alignment with national goals, and the credibility of your offering.
3. Trade Licence from DET or Free Zone Authority
Once KHDA grants initial approval, you must apply for a trade licence with the appropriate authority:
Mainland setup: Apply through the Department of Economy and Tourism
Free zone setup: Apply through the appropriate free zone authority
The trade licence must reflect your business activity as “educational services,” “training institute,” “nursery,” or as applicable.
4. Facility and Infrastructure ApprovalThe KHDA has strict guidelines for facilities, including classroom sizes, safety measures, and accessibility. You must:
Secure an appropriate location that meets KHDA zoning and building standards
Submit floor plans and architectural layouts for KHDA inspectionObtain No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from Dubai Municipality and Civil Defence for safety and fire compliance
5. Final KHDA Inspection
After the facility is ready and your trade license is active, KHDA conducts a final site inspection to ensure:
Facilities match the approved plans
Teaching resources, safety equipment, and administration systems are in place
Compliance with hiring and curriculum standards
Once approved, you will receive the official KHDA licence, and your educational institution will be listed on KHDA’s official register.
Documents Required for KHDA Licence Application
The documentation varies slightly depending on the type of educational institution, but generally includes:
Trade licence copy from DET or Free Zone
Passport and Emirates ID of owner(s) and manager
Business plan and education model
Floor plans and building approval
Fire and safety NOCs
Lease agreement for the premises
List of proposed academic programs or courses
Staff qualifications and professional experience
Marketing and operations plan
All documents must be in English or Arabic and may need notarization or legal attestation in certain cases.
Costs Involved in KHDA Licensing
Starting an educational institution in Dubai can be a major investment. Costs may vary based on the scale, location, and type of institution. Here’s an overview:
Trade Licence Fees
Initial KHDA Approval
KHDA Final Licensing Fee (varies by institution type)
Premises & Fit-out
Legal Documentation & PRO Services
Staff Visa, Training & Recruitment
Despite the initial cost, the long-term return on investment in Dubai’s education sector remains high due to the city’s expanding population and deep focus on quality learning.
Common ChallengesNavigating the KHDA licensing process can be difficult for first-time investors or foreign entrepreneurs. Challenges include:
Securing an appropriate location with KHDA zoning approval
Meeting facility and infrastructure standards
Aligning the curriculum with UAE’s education vision
Managing different government approvals at the same time
Partnering with a credible business setup consultancy in Dubai can streamline the process, ensure timely approvals, and help you avoid costly delays and compliance issues.
ConclusionEstablishing an educational institution in Dubai is an impactful venture. With growing demand for quality learning environments, from early childhood to professional development, Dubai presents a fertile ground for sustainable educational business models. However, success depends not only on vision and investment but also on navigating the regulatory path laid down by KHDA and other authorities.
Ready to launch your educational venture in Dubai?
Let our expert professionals at Bizvise help you secure your KHDA licence with confidence and ease. From paperwork to final approval, we handle it all—so you can focus on building an institution that inspires learning and empowers futures.
Contact us today for a consultation and start your journey to shaping the future of education in Dubai.